The Essential Oil You Need To Banish Lice From Your Furniture

Lice infestations can be a persistent and frustrating problem in many households. These tiny, parasitic insects cause discomfort and stress due to the itching lice bites tend to cause. If left unchecked, lice can be difficult to get rid of especially when they make their way around your home. While most people associate lice with the scalp, they are capable of clinging to various surfaces, including upholstery, bedding, and even stuffed toys. Lice are commonly transmitted from person to person through close contact or by sharing personal items like combs, hats, and bedding. Once they find their way onto your furniture, they can survive for up to two days, making it crucial to address the issue promptly. Good thing there's good ole tree tea oil to save the day!

Aside from the discomfort and itching lice can cause, it's essential to eliminate them from your furniture to prevent reinfestation and ensure a lice-free environment for your family. An effective and natural solution to eliminate lice in furniture is using tea tree oil, which is effective due to its natural insecticidal properties. It works by disrupting the lice's ability to breathe, making them susceptible to suffocation.

To make your own lice-killing solution, you'll need high-quality tea tree oil (available at most health stores and online), plus water to dilute it. Put two cups of water in a spray bottle and add approximately 10 drops of tea tree oil to the mix. The concentration may vary depending on the severity of the infestation and the specific furniture item. However, one study originally published on Springer Parasitology Research found that tea tree oil at 1% concentration can kill lice in 30 minutes. 

Now, shake the spray bottle well to mix the solution and spray it over your furniture, rugs, and carpets. Allow the items to dry completely. For a quick cleanup, vacuum the treated furniture, rugs, and carpets thoroughly to remove dead lice and their eggs. Then run a lint roller across the furniture to pick up leftover lice remains. When using this solution on furniture, ensure it won't damage the fabric or surface by testing a small, inconspicuous area first. Remember to exercise caution when using tea tree oil, especially around children and pets, as it can be toxic if ingested.