What to do with items that have lice? - briefly
Wash washable items in water above 130 °F (54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat; seal non‑washable objects in airtight bags for two weeks or freeze them for at least 48 hours, discarding anything that cannot be treated.
What to do with items that have lice? - in detail
If garments, linens, or personal belongings become infested, immediate isolation prevents spread. Separate the contaminated items from clean supplies and keep them in sealed plastic bags until treatment is complete.
Effective treatment methods
- Machine washing – Use the hottest water the fabric tolerates (minimum 130 °F/54 °C). Add regular detergent; a second rinse removes residual debris.
- Dry‑heat cycle – Tumble dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Heat kills lice and their eggs.
- Steam cleaning – Apply steam (above 212 °F/100 °C) to items that cannot be laundered, such as delicate fabrics, hats, or shoes.
- Freezing – Place non‑washable objects in a freezer set to –4 °F (–20 °C) for 72 hours; the low temperature eliminates all life stages.
- Sealed storage – For items that cannot endure heat or moisture, seal them in airtight containers for three weeks. Lice cannot survive without a host beyond this period.
- Chemical treatment – Use EPA‑registered insecticide sprays or powders labeled for lice on hard surfaces (e.g., furniture, carpets). Follow label directions precisely; avoid excessive application to prevent residue buildup.
Disposal guidelines
- Discard items that are damaged, heavily soiled, or unsuitable for laundering. Place them in sealed bags before removal to avoid accidental release.
- For reusable items that cannot be decontaminated, consider professional pest‑control services that offer specialized heat or chemical processing.
Preventive actions after treatment
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle interiors thoroughly; empty the vacuum canister into a sealed bag and discard.
- Wash hands with soap and water after handling any infested material.
- Inspect remaining belongings for signs of infestation before reintroducing them to the environment.
By following isolation, appropriate decontamination, and disposal protocols, the risk of re‑infestation diminishes dramatically, ensuring a lice‑free setting.