With what can clothing lice be killed? - briefly
Clothing lice are killed by washing garments in water of at least 130 °F (54 °C) and drying them on high heat for 30 minutes, or by treating untreated items with an EPA‑approved insecticidal spray or powder. Freezing infested fabrics at –20 °C (–4 °F) for 48 hours provides an effective non‑chemical alternative.
With what can clothing lice be killed? - in detail
Clothing lice, also known as body lice, survive on fabrics and require targeted treatment to eradicate them completely. Effective control combines chemical agents, physical methods, and preventive practices.
- Permethrin‑based sprays: Apply a 1 % permethrin solution to all garments, allowing the surface to remain wet for 10 minutes before drying. This insecticide disrupts nerve function in the parasites and is approved for textile use.
- Pyrethrin formulations: Use a 0.5 % pyrethrin spray, following the manufacturer’s contact time. Pyrethrins act rapidly but may require retreatment if resistance is suspected.
- Lindane (γ‑hexachlorocyclohexane): Reserve for severe infestations; apply a 0.5 % preparation under strict safety guidelines due to toxicity concerns.
- Silicone‑based emulsions: Deploy a silicone oil spray that suffocates lice by coating fibers, suitable for delicate fabrics where insecticides could damage material.
- Heat treatment: Place contaminated clothing in a dryer on high heat (≥ 65 °C) for at least 30 minutes. Heat denatures lice proteins and destroys eggs.
- Freezing: Seal garments in airtight bags and store at –20 °C for 48 hours. Low temperatures prove lethal to all life stages.
- Steam cleaning: Use a handheld steamer delivering steam above 100 °C for several passes over each surface; steam penetrates folds and eliminates hidden specimens.
Supplementary measures
- Launder all items in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble dry on high heat immediately after chemical or physical treatment.
- Isolate untreated clothing in sealed containers for a minimum of two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
- Inspect seams, pockets, and cuffs where lice may hide; repeat treatment in these zones if any live insects are observed.
- Rotate treated garments with untreated ones only after confirming the absence of lice for 48 hours.
By integrating insecticidal sprays, temperature extremes, and rigorous laundering, clothing lice can be eliminated reliably. Continuous monitoring and adherence to recommended contact times ensure complete eradication and reduce the risk of recurrence.