What should be done with pillows if there are lice? - briefly
Wash the pillows on the hottest setting the fabric allows or place them in a dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes; if laundering is impossible, seal them in a plastic bag for several weeks or replace them.
What should be done with pillows if there are lice? - in detail
When a pillow is known to harbor head‑lice, immediate action prevents the insects from re‑infesting hair and spreading to other bedding.
First, remove the pillow from the sleeping area and place it in a sealed plastic bag to contain any nymphs that may drop off. If the pillow has a removable cover, detach it and treat the cover separately.
Cleaning methods:
- Machine wash: Use the hottest water setting the washing machine allows (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C). Add a regular detergent. Run a full cycle, then place the pillow in the dryer on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Heat above 130 °F kills all life stages of lice and nits.
- Steam treatment: For pillows that cannot be laundered, apply a handheld steamer, ensuring the steam penetrates the entire surface for a minimum of 10 minutes. The temperature of the steam must exceed 212 °F (100 °C).
- Freezing: Seal the pillow in a plastic bag and store it in a freezer set to 0 °F (‑18 °C) for at least 24 hours. Freezing immobilizes lice but does not guarantee egg destruction; follow with a heat‑based method when possible.
- Dry‑cleaning: Submit the pillow to a professional service that uses a solvent capable of eliminating insects. Verify that the cleaning process includes a high‑temperature cycle.
If the pillow’s material cannot withstand any of the above treatments, discard it. Replace it with a new pillow encased in a lice‑proof, zip‑closed cover.
After treatment, wash all surrounding bedding, pillowcases, and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat. Vacuum the mattress, floor, and furniture, then empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag before discarding. Inspect family members for lice and treat accordingly to avoid re‑contamination.
Finally, use protective pillow covers that are labeled “lice‑proof” and launder them regularly. Maintaining high temperatures during washing and drying remains the most reliable strategy for eradicating lice from pillows.