With kids back in school and cold weather warranting hats for kids and adults alike, the annual concern for lice starts to mount. Even the thoughts of it can make people defensively scratch at their heads. If you are one of the lucky lice lottery winners, you’ll likely wonder, “do I need pest control for lice?”
Pest Control defined for lice control
It seems overly common that the concept of pest control consists of either loads of chemicals being sprayed here or there or some space being field with deadly fumes. Thanks Hollywood. The reality is that pest control is a lot more science based. The pest control professional is an integral part of analyzing the constantly changing environment and stack of arthropods that are parts of our lives. Pest control for lice involves using the right product in the right places at the right time.
The right pest control product for lice
Since lice don’t live long off of a host (more to come on this shortly), the best pest control product is the combination of anti-lice shampoos and removal of a great environment to live in. Reducing living environment doesn’t have to be shaving the head to the scalp, but the shorter the hair, the fewer places lice have to hide, thrive, and attach eggs. As tedious as it may seem, manual removal of lice and eggs is incredibly effective.
When my daughter got head lice a few years back she gave me the death glare when I suggested how pretty she would look bald. She was growing her hair out long and would not think of cutting it. We did the shampoo and all seemed well until we realized we missed some eggs. On round 2, she didn’t agree to go bald, but opted for a shorter hair cut along with a hair thinning trim. This reduction in living space not only did the trick when combined with another round of shampoo, but also kept her dignity in tact.
How long do Lice live without a host?
Adult head lice can live a day or two without a host. This may sound like a long time, but it really helps narrow down the treatment process. That life cycle (or lack thereof) really negates the need for any spraying inside or outside of a home, school, library, theatre, etc. Combine this with the lifespan of a newly hatched lice nymph (fleas go through a life cycle of egg, nymph, adult) of just a few hours and you rule out the need for spraying. Simply treating the source and keeping on top of regularly washing and drying linens and clothing such as hats and coats that are used daily is the ticket to success.
The best pest control for lice is prevention
In the realm of pest control for lice, the best practice is prevention. Put in calendar reminders for yourself to talk to your household and workplace about lice a few times a year. The key time for this is after the first few cool days appear when people start wearing hats and coats that could be the transfer tool. Advise people to leave space in between their clothing and others. Remind people to not share such articles either. The fun is not worth the risk. Lice can’t fly or jump, so avoiding direct contact is the preferred preventive procedure.
What role does a pest control company play in lice control?
Even though spraying would not be a part of the lice control arsenal, having a pest control company can be helpful. We understand insects and how they work. We are happy to advise on all sorts of issues and do so for our clients at no extra charge. In this world where anybody can pose as an expert, it is best to rely on information from the professionals who dedicate their lives to these types of things the rest of us would rather never think about. Whether you want an education seminar for your staff or some peace of mind in the process at home, Rove Pest Control has the tools you need to feel safe and secure again.
About Rob Greer: Pest Control Expert and Industry Leader
Rob Greer, co-founder of Rove Pest Control, has a deep connection with nature, developed during his upbringing in rural Idaho where he raised horses and cattle. He began his career in pest control in 2001 to support his university studies. After earning a BS in Business Management, Rob, along with Lenny Gray and McKay Bodily, founded Rove Pest Control.
Rob has played a pivotal role in shaping the operational framework of Rove Pest Control, with a focus on personal development for team members, public health awareness, and tailoring services to meet the needs of individuals and communities.
As an Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) and Subject Matter Expert (SME), Rob has made significant contributions to the pest control industry. He has collaborated on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s UMN Extension certification manual and exam development, the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual for the EPA, and the Quality Pro Customer Service Credential Task Force. His expertise has also been recognized in his testimony for the pest control industry before the Minnesota state legislature as a State Policy Affairs Representative. Currently, Rob serves as the President of the Minnesota Pest Management Association Board. Learn more about Rob Greer.