What to use to treat laundry for lice and nits? - briefly
Launder all contaminated clothing, bedding, and towels in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or higher and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes; for items that cannot be heat‑treated, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks or apply a lice‑specific spray containing permethrin or pyrethrin.
What to use to treat laundry for lice and nits? - in detail
Treating clothing, bedding, and other fabrics that have been exposed to head‑lice or their eggs requires a combination of heat, chemical agents, and proper handling to ensure complete eradication.
First, wash all items in hot water. The temperature should reach at least 130 °F (54 °C); this level kills both adult insects and developing nits. Use a regular laundry detergent; adding a small amount of liquid bleach (5–10 % sodium hypochlorite) enhances efficacy on white or color‑fast fabrics. For items that cannot withstand high heat or bleach, apply a non‑chlorine disinfectant such as a quaternary ammonium solution, following the manufacturer’s dilution instructions.
Second, dry the washed load on the highest heat setting for a minimum of 20 minutes. The dryer’s temperature, typically above 135 °F (57 °C), provides an additional lethal environment for any surviving stages.
Third, isolate items that cannot be laundered immediately. Seal them in a plastic bag and store for two weeks; lice cannot survive more than 48 hours without a host, and nits lose viability after several days. After the waiting period, launder as described above.
A concise protocol:
- Wash in water ≥130 °F (54 °C) with detergent.
- Add bleach (5–10 %) for bleach‑compatible fabrics; otherwise use a certified disinfectant.
- Dry on high heat for ≥20 minutes.
- Seal non‑launderable items for 14 days before processing.
- Inspect and repeat if any live insects are observed.
By adhering to these steps, all stages of the parasite are eliminated from textiles, preventing re‑infestation.