How to treat hats after lice infestation? - briefly
Wash the hat in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes and tumble‑dry on high heat; if laundering isn’t possible, place it in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks or dispose of it.
How to treat hats after lice infestation? - in detail
Treating headwear after a lice outbreak requires thorough cleaning, isolation, and preventive measures to eliminate any remaining parasites and eggs.
First, separate all affected items from clean clothing. Place hats, caps, scarves, and any fabric accessories in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours; lice cannot survive without a host for more than two days.
Next, wash the items according to their material specifications:
- Machine‑washable fabrics: use hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) with regular detergent, then tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Delicate or non‑washable pieces: seal in a heavy‑duty zip‑lock bag and expose to a commercial steam cleaner or a dryer on the highest setting for 30 minutes; alternatively, freeze in a freezer at –4 °F (–20 °C) for 24 hours.
For hats that cannot be laundered or heated, apply a 1 % permethrin spray, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure even coverage, allow the product to dry completely, then store the hat in a sealed container for another 24 hours before reuse.
After cleaning, inspect each piece visually for any remaining nits. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a magnifying lens to check seams, folds, and interior linings. If any are detected, repeat the appropriate decontamination step.
Finally, establish a routine to prevent reinfestation:
- Store cleaned headwear in airtight containers when not in use.
- Rotate hats, allowing at least one week between uses.
- Avoid sharing headwear among individuals until the environment is declared clear.
Following these procedures removes live lice, destroys eggs, and reduces the risk of a recurrence.