How to Clean House After Lice Infestation
- February 6, 2025
- 8:10 pm
Dealing with a lice infestation is overwhelming, but proper cleaning can restore your home to a lice-free state. The key is thoroughly eliminating lice and their eggs from every corner to prevent reinfestation.
This guide will walk you through step-by-step cleaning methods, essential tools, and expert tips to make the process easier and more effective.
Step 1: Gather Essential Cleaning Supplies
Before starting, make sure you have the right tools:
- Vacuum Cleaner – Essential for removing lice from carpets and furniture.
- Laundry Detergent & Hot Water – Necessary for washing clothing, bedding, and linens.
- Plastic Bags – For sealing non-washable items to suffocate lice.
- Disinfectant Spray – To sanitize surfaces that can’t be washed.
- Gloves & Masks – Protect yourself while cleaning.
Having everything ready will make the cleaning process smoother and more efficient.
Step 2: Wash Bedding & Clothing
Lice can survive on fabrics, so it’s crucial to clean all personal textiles:
- Remove & Wash – Strip all bedsheets, pillowcases, and clothing. Wash in hot water (at least 130°F).
- High-Heat Drying – Dry everything on the highest heat setting to kill lice and nits.
- Seal Non-Washables – Place non-washable items (stuffed animals, hats, scarves) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks to suffocate any remaining lice.
Step 3: Clean Furniture & Carpets
Lice may hide in upholstery and carpets, making deep cleaning essential:
- Vacuum Thoroughly – Focus on sofas, rugs, and mattresses, paying close attention to seams and crevices.
- Steam Cleaning – If available, use a steam cleaner to kill lice with heat.
- Lightly Spray Surfaces – Use a lice-specific disinfectant on furniture to eliminate any lingering pests.
Regular cleaning of these areas helps prevent future infestations.
Step 4: Disinfect Personal Items & Toys
Items that come into direct contact with hair must be sanitized:
- Hair Tools – Soak combs, brushes, and hair accessories in hot water (130°F) for 10 minutes.
- Headphones & Hats – Wipe down with disinfectant wipes or place them in a sealed bag for two weeks.
- Toys & Stuffed Animals – Wash in hot water or seal in an airtight bag.
Avoiding shared items during an outbreak can also reduce the spread of lice.
Step 5: Maintain a Lice-Free Home
Prevent future infestations by following these tips:
- Regular Head Checks – Inspect children’s hair weekly, especially after playdates or school events.
- Educate Family Members – Encourage personal hygiene and discourage sharing hair accessories or hats.
- Routine Cleaning – Vacuum carpets, furniture, and bedding regularly to prevent lice from lingering.
When to Consider Professional Cleaning Services
Sometimes, professional help is the best solution for completely eliminating lice:
- Deep Cleaning Expertise – Professionals use industrial-grade disinfectants and techniques.
- Time-Saving – A thorough cleaning can take hours, but experts can do it efficiently.
- Peace of Mind – Ensures that lice and eggs are fully eradicated.
Hiring a professional cleaning service can help restore your home faster and more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your home after a lice infestation requires thoroughness and persistence, but it’s entirely manageable with the right approach.
By following these steps, you can ensure a clean, lice-free environment for your family.
Dealing with a Lice Infestation? We Can Help!
Let us handle the deep cleaning so you can enjoy a lice-free, stress-free home.
“Cleaning Disorder – Restoring Clean, One Home at a Time.”