How to treat plush toys for lice? - briefly
Wash the toy in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes and tumble‑dry on high heat; if laundering isn’t feasible, seal it in a plastic bag and freeze for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly. This eliminates lice and their eggs from the fabric.
How to treat plush toys for lice? - in detail
Treating stuffed animals that have become infested with lice requires a systematic approach to eliminate the parasites while preserving the toy’s integrity.
First, isolate the affected item from other fabrics and bedding. Place the plush in a sealed plastic bag for at least 24 hours to starve any adult lice and nymphs that cannot survive without a host. After this quarantine, proceed to the cleaning phase.
Cleaning methods
- Machine wash – Use the hottest water setting the fabric can tolerate (typically 140 °F/60 °C). Add a regular laundry detergent and a cup of white vinegar to enhance the insecticidal effect. Run an extra rinse cycle to remove residues.
- Hand wash – Submerge the toy in a basin filled with hot water (minimum 130 °F/55 °C) mixed with detergent. Agitate gently for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Steam treatment – If the material is delicate, apply a handheld steamer for 5 minutes, ensuring steam penetrates seams and stuffing. The heat will kill lice at all life stages.
- Freezing – For items that cannot withstand heat, seal the plush in a zip‑lock bag and place it in a freezer set to –4 °F (–20 °C) for 48 hours. The low temperature exterminates the parasites.
After cleaning, dry the toy completely. Use a high‑heat dryer cycle if the fabric permits; otherwise, air‑dry in direct sunlight for several hours, as UV exposure contributes to parasite mortality.
Preventive steps
- Store all stuffed toys in airtight containers when not in use.
- Wash bedding and clothing of the infested individual simultaneously to avoid re‑infestation.
- Inspect other soft items (pillows, blankets) for live lice and treat them using the same protocols.
- Maintain regular vacuuming of living areas, focusing on upholstery and carpet edges where lice may hide.
By following these procedures, lice are eradicated from plush toys without compromising their softness or appearance. Continuous vigilance prevents recurrence and protects both the child and the household environment.