How to treat furniture for lice and nits? - briefly
Remove all washable fabrics, launder them in water ≥ 130 °F and tumble‑dry on high heat; vacuum upholstery, mattresses, and crevices, then discard or clean the vacuum bag. Apply a steam cleaner or an EPA‑registered insecticide spray to any remaining surfaces, following the product directions.
How to treat furniture for lice and nits? - in detail
Treating household furnishings for head‑lice infestations requires a systematic approach that eliminates both adult insects and their eggs. The process begins with removal of loose debris, followed by mechanical, thermal, and chemical methods, and ends with measures to prevent re‑infestation.
First, isolate items that cannot be washed, such as upholstered chairs, sofas, and mattresses. Use a high‑efficiency vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter; run the nozzle over all surfaces, seams, and crevices for at least ten minutes per piece. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed plastic bag and place it in an outdoor trash container.
Second, apply heat. Steam cleaners reaching temperatures of 130 °F (54 °C) or higher can kill lice and nits on fabric and wood. Move the steam nozzle slowly, ensuring each area receives direct exposure for a minimum of 30 seconds. For mattresses and pillows, expose the entire surface to the steam and then allow the item to dry completely.
Third, launder removable covers, cushions, and small textiles. Wash in hot water (at least 130 °F/54 °C) for 10 minutes, then tumble dry on high heat for 20 minutes. If hot water is unavailable, place items in a sealed bag and store them in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 72 hours; the prolonged cold kills all stages of the parasite.
Fourth, consider approved insecticidal sprays for non‑washable furniture. Choose products labeled for lice control, containing 0.5 % permethrin or 0.05 % pyrethrin. Apply according to manufacturer instructions, covering all fabric, seams, and wood grain. Ventilate the room for at least one hour after treatment and keep occupants and pets out of the area.
Fifth, address infested items that cannot be salvaged. Seal them in a heavy‑duty garbage bag, expel all air, and store the bag in a locked outdoor container for a minimum of two weeks. This timeframe exceeds the lice life cycle, ensuring no viable insects remain.
Finally, implement preventive actions. Use washable slipcovers on sofas and chairs, replace them regularly, and vacuum weekly. Maintain low humidity (below 50 %) and keep room temperature stable, as lice thrive in warm, moist environments. Regular inspection of bedding and upholstery after treatment will confirm the success of the eradication effort.