If a child has lice, what should be done with soft toys? - briefly
Wash stuffed toys in hot water (≥130 °F) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks before drying thoroughly; if laundering is impossible, discard the items. This eliminates any lice or nits and prevents re‑infestation.
If a child has lice, what should be done with soft toys? - in detail
When a child is diagnosed with head lice, any plush or fabric toys that the child uses must be treated to prevent reinfestation. The insects cannot survive long away from a human host, but eggs (nits) can remain viable for up to ten days, making thorough decontamination essential.
First, separate the toys from other household items. Place each item in a sealed plastic bag or a large airtight container. For items that can tolerate heat, wash them in a washing machine on the hottest cycle the fabric allows (typically 60 °C/140 °F) with regular detergent. Follow the wash with a high‑temperature dryer cycle for at least 30 minutes; the heat will kill both lice and nits.
If a toy cannot be machine‑washed, use an alternative method:
- Steam treatment: Apply steam from a garment steamer or a steam iron, ensuring the entire surface is exposed for several minutes. The temperature must reach at least 100 °C (212 °F).
- Freezing: Seal the item in a zip‑lock bag and place it in a freezer set to –20 °C (–4 °F) for 24 hours. This temperature kills the parasites.
- Isolation: For toys that cannot withstand heat or moisture, keep them in a sealed bag for a minimum of two weeks. Lice cannot survive more than 48 hours without a host, and nits will not hatch after this period.
After treatment, inspect the toys for remaining debris. Use a fine‑toothed comb or a bright light to check seams and stuffing. Discard any toy that shows signs of damage or cannot be adequately cleaned.
Finally, store cleaned toys in a clean, dry environment. Regular laundering of soft items and periodic inspection of the child’s belongings reduce the risk of recurrence.