If you have been diagnosed with scabies, it is important to wash all clothing, bedding, and towels that you have used in the past few days to prevent spreading the infestation. Make sure to wash everything in hot water and dry on high heat to kill any mites that may be present. Additionally, don’t forget to clean any personal items such as combs, brushes, and stuffed animals that may have come into contact with the affected areas. By taking these steps, you can help alleviate the symptoms and prevent reinfection. What Should I Wash If I Have Scabies?
What should I wash if I have scabies?
Understanding Scabies
Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the top layer of your skin. It is characterized by intense itching, especially at night, and a rash with small red bumps or blisters. If you have been diagnosed with scabies, it is important to take certain precautions to prevent spreading the mites to others and to help get rid of the infestation.
Items to Wash
If you have scabies, it is important to wash all clothing, bedding, and towels that have come into contact with your skin. This will help kill any mites or eggs that may be present on these items and prevent further infestation.
Clothing
Wash all clothing, including underwear, pajamas, and outerwear, in hot water (at least 130°F) to kill the mites. Be sure to dry them on the hottest setting as well to ensure that any remaining mites are killed.
Bedding
Wash all bedding, including sheets, blankets, comforters, and pillowcases, in hot water and dry on the hottest setting. You may also consider using mattress and pillow covers to help contain any mites that may be present.
Towels
Wash all towels, including bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths, in hot water and dry on the hottest setting. Consider using separate towels for different members of the household to prevent spreading the mites.
Household Items to Clean
In addition to washing clothing, bedding, and towels, it is important to clean and disinfect certain household items that may have come into contact with the mites.
Furniture
Clean and vacuum upholstered furniture, including sofas, chairs, and mattresses, to remove any mites or eggs that may be present. Consider using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to help trap the mites.
Personal Items
Clean and disinfect personal items, such as combs, brushes, and hair accessories, that may have come into contact with your skin. Consider soaking these items in hot water or cleaning them with alcohol to kill any mites that may be present.
Floors
Clean and vacuum all floors, including carpeting and rugs, to remove any mites or eggs that may have fallen off your skin. Consider using a steam cleaner on carpets and rugs for added protection.
Personal Hygiene
In addition to washing clothing, bedding, and household items, it is important to practice good personal hygiene to help get rid of scabies and prevent reinfection.
Showering
Take regular showers to help remove any mites or eggs that may be on your skin. Be sure to use hot water and a gentle soap to help kill the mites and soothe itching.
Nail Care
Keep your nails short and clean to prevent scratching and spreading the mites to other parts of your body. Consider wearing gloves at night to prevent scratching while you sleep.
Avoid Skin-to-Skin Contact
Avoid close contact with others, especially during the treatment period, to prevent spreading the mites. Consider wearing long sleeves and pants to cover your skin and reduce the risk of transmission.
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for scabies, including over-the-counter and prescription medications. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment to help get rid of the infestation.
Topical Medications
Topical medications, such as permethrin cream or lotion, are commonly used to treat scabies. These medications are applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for a specified amount of time before washing off.
Oral Medications
In some cases, oral medications, such as ivermectin, may be prescribed to help get rid of scabies. These medications are taken by mouth and work to kill the mites from the inside out.
Follow-Up Care
After completing treatment for scabies, it is important to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the infestation has been successfully treated and to prevent reinfection.
Reevaluate Symptoms
It is important to monitor your symptoms after treatment to ensure that the mites have been eradicated. If you continue to experience itching or rash, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Prevent Reinfection
To prevent reinfection, continue to practice good personal hygiene, wash clothing and bedding regularly, and avoid close contact with others who may have scabies. Consider washing items in hot water and drying on the hottest setting to kill any remaining mites.
Conclusion
If you have been diagnosed with scabies, it is important to wash all clothing, bedding, and towels that have come into contact with your skin to help get rid of the infestation. Additionally, clean and disinfect household items, practice good personal hygiene, and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for treatment to prevent spreading the mites to others and to help get rid of scabies. Remember, scabies is a treatable condition, and with proper care and treatment, you can successfully eliminate the infestation and prevent reinfection.