What should be done with bedding after lice appear? - briefly
Wash all linens, pillowcases and blankets in hot water (≥130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat; place any items that cannot be laundered in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks to starve the lice. Clean the mattress and surrounding area with a lice‑appropriate spray or steam treatment before covering with fresh bedding.
What should be done with bedding after lice appear? - in detail
When lice are detected, all sleeping surfaces must be treated to eliminate the infestation and prevent re‑infestation. Begin by removing all sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and mattress protectors. Place these items in a sealed plastic bag for transport to the washing area.
Wash the laundry in hot water at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C). The temperature must be sustained for at least 10 minutes to kill both adult lice and nymphs. After washing, dry the items on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 30 minutes; heat exposure destroys any remaining eggs.
Items that cannot be laundered, such as delicate comforters or decorative pillows, should be sealed in airtight bags for two weeks. Lice cannot survive more than 48 hours away from a host, and a two‑week isolation period guarantees that any surviving insects die. Alternatively, subject non‑washable fabrics to a professional dry‑cleaning service that uses high‑temperature cycles.
The mattress and box spring require thorough decontamination. Vacuum the entire surface, paying special attention to seams, folds, and crevices. Discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Follow vacuuming with an application of a lice‑specific spray or a steam treatment. Steam must reach at least 130 °F and be applied for several minutes across the whole mattress, including edges and headboard.
Upholstered headboards, footboards, and nearby furniture should undergo the same steam or chemical treatment. If chemical products are used, select those approved for upholstery and follow label instructions regarding concentration, contact time, and ventilation.
After completing the cleaning cycle, replace the bedding with freshly laundered items. Keep the new linens in a clean, sealed container until they are placed on the treated sleeping surfaces. Maintain a regular schedule of washing bedding weekly during the treatment period to ensure any stray lice are removed promptly.