What should you use to treat floors for lice? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets and upholstered areas to eliminate eggs and nits. Then treat hard surfaces with an EPA‑registered lice insecticide spray or a high‑temperature steam cleaner.
What should you use to treat floors for lice? - in detail
Treating infested flooring requires a combination of mechanical removal, thermal disruption, and, when necessary, chemical control.
Begin with thorough mechanical cleaning. Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstered furniture, and floor seams using a high‑efficiency filter. Immediately discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister to prevent re‑contamination. Follow with a damp mop on hard surfaces, ensuring the mop head is washed in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) after each pass.
Apply thermal treatment to eliminate viable nits and lice that survive vacuuming. Use a steam cleaner delivering steam at 212 °F (100 °C) for at least 30 seconds per spot. Steam penetrates carpet fibers and floor cracks, killing insects without chemicals. Allow the floor to dry completely before re‑entry.
If residual infestation persists, incorporate a registered pediculicide approved for environmental use. Choose a product containing either permethrin (0.5 %) or a pyrethrin‑based aerosol. Follow label directions precisely: apply to carpet, rugs, and floor crevices, maintain the recommended contact time, then ventilate the area and remove excess residue with a clean mop.
Complete the process by laundering all removable floor coverings, curtains, and nearby textiles in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and drying on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in plastic bags for two weeks to starve any surviving organisms.
Summary of steps
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor seams; dispose of vacuum contents safely.
- Mop hard floors with hot water; replace mop water frequently.
- Steam‑clean all floor surfaces, maintaining ≥ 212 °F temperature for 30 seconds.
- Apply a registered pediculicide to remaining carpeted areas if needed; observe contact time.
- Launder or bag all washable items; use high‑heat drying.
Following this protocol removes live lice, hatches nits, and reduces the risk of re‑infestation on treated flooring.