What should you do with a comb after dealing with lice?

What should you do with a comb after dealing with lice? - briefly

After removing lice, soak the comb in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) with shampoo or a disinfectant for at least 10 minutes. Rinse, dry, and store it safely or discard it.

What should you do with a comb after dealing with lice? - in detail

After a lice removal session, the comb must be thoroughly decontaminated before reuse or disposal.

1. Immediate rinse – Run the comb under hot running water (at least 130 °F / 54 °C) to remove visible debris and nits.

2. Soak for disinfection – Place the tool in a container with one of the following solutions for 10‑15 minutes:

   • 10 % household bleach (mix one part bleach with nine parts water).
   • 70 % isopropyl alcohol.
   • White vinegar undiluted.
     Ensure the entire comb is submerged; agitation helps release trapped particles.

3. Mechanical cleaning – After soaking, scrub the teeth with a small brush (e.g., an old toothbrush) to dislodge any remaining lice or eggs.

4. Rinse and dry – Rinse the comb under hot water again to remove residual chemicals. Place it on a clean towel and allow it to air‑dry completely; moisture can promote bacterial growth.

5. Optional sterilization – For metal or heat‑resistant plastic combs, run them through a dishwasher on the hottest cycle or place them in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.

6. Storage or disposal –

   • If the comb is in good condition, store it in a sealed plastic bag or container until the next use.
   • If the comb is damaged, frayed, or shows signs of wear, discard it in a sealed bag and replace it with a new fine‑toothed lice comb.

Following these steps eliminates viable lice and nits, prevents reinfestation, and maintains hygiene for future treatments.