What to use to treat an apartment for lice? - briefly
Use EPA‑registered lice spray (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) applied to all surfaces, followed by vacuuming, steam cleaning, and washing bedding and clothing at ≥130 °F. Seal treated items in plastic bags for 48 hours to ensure complete eradication.
What to use to treat an apartment for lice? - in detail
Treating a living space for head‑lice infestation requires a combination of chemical and mechanical measures to eliminate both adult insects and their eggs.
The first step is to apply an approved pediculicide to all personal items that cannot be laundered. Products containing permethrin (1 %), pyrethrins, malathion, or spinosad are listed by health authorities for this purpose. Follow the label instructions precisely, ensuring adequate coverage and contact time. Apply the solution to bedding, upholstered furniture, and curtains using a spray bottle or fogger designed for indoor use. After the recommended exposure period, remove any residue by wiping surfaces with a damp cloth.
Mechanical control focuses on removing viable insects and nits from the environment:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and washable fabrics at ≥ 60 °C (140 °F) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat for a minimum of 20 minutes.
- Place non‑washable items in sealed polyethylene bags for two weeks; the life cycle of lice cannot be completed without a host.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Steam‑clean hard surfaces, mattresses, and cushions; steam at ≥ 100 °C (212 °F) kills both lice and eggs on contact.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb or a dedicated lice‑removal brush on personal hair before re‑entering the treated area; this prevents re‑infestation.
Environmental decontamination may include:
- Applying an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as hydroprene to cracks and crevices where lice could hide; IGRs inhibit the development of eggs into viable adults.
- Treating baseboards, door frames, and wall skirtings with a residual aerosol spray labeled for indoor use; repeat application after 7–10 days to cover any newly hatched lice.
Finally, maintain a schedule of inspection and repeat treatment. Conduct a visual check of hair and bedding after 7 days, then again after 14 days, to confirm eradication. Consistent adherence to these protocols eliminates the infestation and prevents recurrence.