How to treat tools for lice? - briefly
Clean combs, brushes, and similar devices by soaking them in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes. Rinse afterward in a 1:9 bleach solution or an alcohol‑based disinfectant and allow them to air‑dry completely.
How to treat tools for lice? - in detail
Treating lice‑related equipment requires thorough decontamination to eliminate eggs and nymphs. Begin by removing visible debris with a disposable brush or paper towel. Rinse items under running water to wash away loose particles.
Use a hot‑water soak: submerge combs, brushes, hair clips, and caps in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) for 10 minutes. The temperature destroys nymphs and hatches eggs that are not firmly attached. For plastic or metal tools, add a disinfectant such as 10 % household bleach or a 70 % isopropyl alcohol solution. Allow the solution to act for 5–10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove residue.
If the items can withstand a dishwasher, place them on the top rack and run a cycle with a high‑temperature setting (≥140 °F / 60 °C). The combination of heat and detergent provides reliable sterilization. For heat‑sensitive tools, consider a commercial UV‑light sanitizer; expose each side for at least 5 minutes according to the device’s specifications.
After treatment, dry all equipment completely. Air‑dry on a clean surface or use a low‑heat dryer for fabric items. Store cleaned tools in sealed plastic bags or dedicated containers to prevent re‑contamination.
Maintain a routine schedule: clean combs and brushes after each use, disinfect reusable caps weekly, and replace disposable items after a single treatment session. Document the cleaning process to ensure consistency and compliance with health‑safety standards.