What to do with bedding if it contains lice? - briefly
Remove all sheets, pillowcases, blankets and other washable items, then launder them in water ≥ 130 °F (≈ 54 °C) for at least 30 minutes and tumble‑dry on high heat; seal any non‑washable pieces in a plastic bag for two weeks or discard them. Vacuum the mattress and surrounding area, then clean the surface with a lice‑killing spray or steam.
What to do with bedding if it contains lice? - in detail
If sheets, pillowcases, blankets, or other sleeping surfaces are found to be infested, remove them from the sleeping area immediately. Place the items in sealed plastic bags to prevent lice from spreading while you prepare treatment.
Launderable fabrics
- Wash at a minimum of 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 10 minutes.
- Use a high‑efficiency detergent; add a small amount of disinfectant if desired.
- Dry on the hottest setting the fabric can tolerate for a full cycle (minimum 30 minutes).
- After drying, store in clean, sealed containers until the bedroom is treated.
Non‑washable items
- Seal in airtight bags and freeze at –4 °F (‑20 °C) for 72 hours; this temperature kills all life stages of lice.
- Alternatively, expose to a portable heat chamber set to 130 °F (54 °C) for 30 minutes.
- For items that cannot endure heat or cold, apply a lice‑specific insecticide spray following the manufacturer’s safety instructions; allow the product to dry completely before reuse.
Mattress, box spring, and pillow protection
- Vacuum the entire surface, focusing on seams and crevices; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Apply a pesticide approved for indoor use to the mattress and box spring; follow label directions for contact time.
- After treatment, encase the mattress and pillow in a lint‑free, zippered cover rated to block insects; leave the cover on for at least two weeks to ensure any surviving lice cannot escape.
Room decontamination
- Wash all curtains, drapes, and removable upholstery covers using the same high‑temperature protocol.
- Steam‑clean carpets and floor coverings; steam must reach at least 212 °F (100 °C).
- Treat baseboards, wall sockets, and other hidden locations with a residual insecticide spray.
- Keep the room unoccupied for the duration specified on the pesticide label, typically 12–24 hours.
Post‑treatment monitoring
- Inspect bedding and surrounding fabrics daily for three consecutive days; repeat laundering if any live insects are observed.
- Continue to vacuum and clean high‑traffic areas for at least two weeks to capture any newly hatched lice.
Following these steps eliminates the infestation from all bedding components, prevents re‑infestation, and restores a safe sleeping environment.