What to use to kill bed lice? - briefly
Use a pediculicide approved for bed‑bug infestations—such as 5 % permethrin spray or a pyrethrin‑based product—applied directly to the mattress, box spring, and surrounding furniture, then launder all linens and clothing at ≥130 °F. Follow the label instructions and repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any surviving insects.
What to use to kill bed lice? - in detail
Effective eradication of Cimex lectularius requires a combination of chemical, physical, and procedural measures.
Chemical agents approved for domestic use include pyrethroid‑based sprays (e.g., permethrin 0.5 % or bifenthrin 0.1 %), neonicotinoid formulations (imidacloprid 0.2 %), and silica‑based dusts (diatomaceous earth, silica gel). Apply these products to seams, mattress edges, and furniture crevices, following label instructions for concentration, contact time, and ventilation.
Physical interventions consist of heat treatment and cold exposure. Exposing infested items to temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) for at least 30 minutes eliminates all life stages; portable steamers achieving 100 °C (212 °F) can treat upholstery and bedding without chemicals. Freezing infested objects at –18 °C (0 °F) for a minimum of four days also proves lethal.
Procedural steps enhance control:
- Remove all bedding, curtains, and clothing; launder at ≥60 °C (140 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Vacuum mattresses, box springs, and surrounding areas; discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Encase mattresses and pillows in certified encasements, leaving no gaps.
- Inspect and treat adjacent furniture, baseboards, and wall voids with targeted sprays or dusts.
Integrated pest management recommends repeating chemical applications after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs, as most insecticides lack ovicidal activity. Monitoring devices (sticky traps or passive monitors) placed near sleeping areas provide evidence of residual activity and help schedule follow‑up actions.
Safety considerations: use personal protective equipment (gloves, mask) during application; ensure adequate ventilation; keep children and pets away until treated surfaces are dry.
Combining high‑temperature methods, appropriate insecticides, and rigorous sanitation yields the most reliable elimination of bed‑lice infestations.