How to treat elastic bands for lice? - briefly
Clean elastic hair ties by soaking them in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes, then washing them on the hottest machine cycle with detergent. If thorough sanitization is impossible, discard the ties.
How to treat elastic bands for lice? - in detail
Elastic hair ties can become vectors for lice when they contact an infested scalp. Proper handling eliminates the risk of re‑infestation and prevents spread to other garments.
First, remove the ties from the head and place them in a sealed plastic bag. Seal the bag and leave it at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this deprives lice of a suitable environment and reduces their activity.
Next, wash the bands in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) with detergent. Use a washing machine cycle that includes a high‑temperature rinse, or hand‑wash in a pot of boiling water for 5–10 minutes. Heat kills both adult lice and nymphs.
After washing, rinse thoroughly and dry on high heat in a dryer for at least 20 minutes. If a dryer is unavailable, lay the ties flat in direct sunlight for several hours; ultraviolet radiation and heat are lethal to the parasites.
If the elastic material cannot tolerate high temperatures, soak the ties in a solution of 0.5 % permethrin or 1 % dimethicone for 10 minutes, then rinse and air‑dry. Ensure the product is labeled for use on fabrics and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Finally, store the cleaned ties in a clean, sealed container until they are needed. Discard any ties that show signs of damage, as compromised elasticity may retain moisture and create a favorable environment for lice.
Summary of steps
- Isolate in a sealed bag for 30 minutes.
- Wash in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) with detergent.
- Dry on high heat (dryer ≥20 minutes) or sun exposure.
- If heat‑sensitive, treat with approved insecticidal soak, rinse, and dry.
- Store in a clean, sealed container; discard damaged items.
Following this protocol removes live lice, their eggs, and any residual debris, ensuring that elastic hair accessories remain safe for future use.