What to do with bed linens to remove lice? - briefly
Wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) and dry on high heat for 30 minutes or longer. Seal any non‑launderable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
What to do with bed linens to remove lice? - in detail
To eliminate head‑lice infestations from sheets and pillowcases, follow a systematic approach that combines heat, thorough cleaning, and containment.
First, remove all fabric items from the sleeping area. Place each piece in a sealed plastic bag to prevent re‑contamination during handling.
Launder the textiles using the hottest water setting the machine allows, typically 130 °F (54 °C) or higher. Hot water kills both adult lice and nymphs. Use a strong, enzyme‑based detergent to break down any organic residues that might protect the insects.
After washing, immediately transfer the items to a dryer set on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Temperatures above 130 °F (54 °C) are sufficient to destroy lice eggs (nits) and any remaining adults. If a dryer is unavailable, lay the fabrics flat in direct sunlight for several hours; solar UV radiation and ambient heat provide a secondary killing mechanism, though it is less reliable than mechanical drying.
For items that cannot be machine‑washed—such as delicate blankets, comforters, or decorative pillows—apply one of the following alternatives:
- Freezing: Seal the item in a waterproof bag and place it in a freezer set to 0 °F (‑18 °C) for at least 48 hours. Prolonged exposure to sub‑freezing temperatures eliminates lice stages.
- Steam treatment: Use a handheld garment steamer, directing the steam across all surfaces for a minimum of 10 seconds per area. Steam penetrates fibers and raises temperatures above the lethal threshold.
- Ironing: Pass a hot iron (minimum setting 200 °F/93 °C) over the fabric, focusing on seams and folds where nits may reside.
After the heat or cold process, inspect each piece for residual nits using a fine‑toothed comb under bright light. Any remaining eggs should be removed manually and the item re‑treated.
Finally, clean the mattress, box spring, and surrounding surfaces. Vacuum thoroughly, paying special attention to seams, tufts, and crevices. After vacuuming, seal the mattress cover in a zippered encasement and keep it closed for at least two weeks, the typical lifespan of a louse egg, to prevent any survivors from re‑infesting.
Document the entire procedure, noting dates, temperatures, and durations, to ensure consistency in future treatments and to verify that all steps were completed according to best‑practice standards.