How to Clean Your House After Having Scabies
Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei. If you or someone in your household has scabies, it’s crucial to thoroughly clean your home to prevent the infestation from spreading. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your house after having scabies.
1. Wash bedding and clothing
The first step in cleaning your house after having scabies is to wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items that the affected person has used. Wash these items in hot water, at least 130°F (54.4°C), and dry them on high heat for at least 20 minutes. If you have items that cannot be washed, such as stuffed animals or pillows, seal them in a plastic bag for at least a week to kill the mites.
2. Vacuum thoroughly
Vacuuming your home is essential in removing scabies mites and their eggs. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap the mites and their eggs. Pay special attention to areas where the affected person has spent most of their time, such as the bedroom, living room, and furniture. After vacuuming, dispose of the vacuum bag or clean the vacuum’s filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Clean hard surfaces
Wipe down all hard surfaces, including floors, walls, and furniture, with a household disinfectant. Use a solution of 1 cup of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water for surfaces that can tolerate bleach. For surfaces that cannot be bleached, use a commercial disinfectant that is effective against scabies mites. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label.
4. Treat personal items
Personal items, such as combs, brushes, and toothbrushes, should be soaked in a solution of 1 cup of chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water for at least 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a commercial disinfectant that is effective against scabies mites. After treating, rinse these items thoroughly with clean water.
5. Remove carpet and drapery
If you have carpet or drapery in your home, consider removing them during the cleaning process. This is because scabies mites can survive in carpet fibers and drapery for up to 2 weeks. If you cannot remove these items, vacuum them thoroughly and then treat them with a disinfectant as mentioned in step 3.
6. Disinfect the bathroom
Scabies mites can survive in the bathroom for up to 2 weeks. Clean the bathroom thoroughly, including the toilet, sink, bathtub, and shower. Use a disinfectant that is effective against scabies mites, and be sure to clean under the bathroom fixtures and around the edges of the bathtub and sink.
7. Prevent future infestations
To prevent future scabies infestations, follow these tips:
– Practice good hygiene, including regular hand washing and bathing.
– Keep your home clean and clutter-free.
– Avoid sharing personal items, such as clothing, bedding, and towels.
– If you have pets, keep them clean and regularly check for signs of scabies.
Cleaning your house after having scabies is a crucial step in preventing the spread of the infestation. By following these steps, you can ensure that your home is free from scabies mites and create a safe environment for you and your family.
