We often wish all our issues were solved with simple products like Lysol but does Lysol kill scabies? Let’s unravel the truth below!
What is Scabies?
Scabies is a type of skin infestation that is caused by the tiny mites known as “Sarcoptes Scabiei var. hominis.” The skin infestation is highly contagious and uncomfortable for most people. The mites burrow into the uppermost layer of the skin to lay eggs and produce waste. This triggers an allergic reaction in the skin that leads to intense itching and rashes all over the body. The common way of a scabies infestation is through direct, skin-to-skin contact. However, you can get Scabies if you share clothing or bedding with an infected person.
Does Lysol Kill Scabies?
Lysol might be a good option to kill scabies on hard surfaces because of its composition which consists of alcohol and quaternary ammonium compounds (quats). These elements can help in getting rid of scabies mites since they denature the proteins in scabies mites, which kills them instantly. The ingredients are even more effective since they break down the biofilm that the scabies mites produce. This biofilm is effective in protecting the mites from harsh environmental conditions and life-endangering situations. As much as Lysol is effective in killing scabies from hard surfaces, it might not be so effective in killing scabies from bedding and clothing.
This is because the scabies mites survive up to 3 days in soft beddings and clothing. Therefore, it becomes important to deeply wash the items in hot water and dry them under direct sunlight to kill the mites and eggs completely.
How To Use Lysol to Kill Scabies?
As mentioned, Lysol will only help you to get rid of scabies from hard surfaces. To remove scabies from hard surfaces, simply apply Lysol on the surface and let it sit for a minute or two. Then, simply wipe off/wash the surface with hot water.
For removing scabies from beddings and clothing, it is essential to wash them in hot water and then sun dry them. This will ensure that the higher temperatures kill the mites and further clean the sheets from any bacteria or infection-bearing insects.
Other Ways to Remove Scabies
1. Tea Tree Oil
Studies have shown that tea tree oil has the potential to eradicate scabies in small infestations. People who are not allergic to tea tree oil can apply the oil to the skin as a countermeasure to relieve itchiness.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is effective in providing a soothing effect on skin ailments such as itchy skin or sunburn. Apply freshly made aloe vera gel to the affected skin to ease the itching.
3. Neem Oil
Neem is an infamous ingredient that is often part of many ointments and creams. However, you can even use neem oil standalone to get relief from scabies rashes and itchiness.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is a great natural anti-bacterial that can help in easing the pain out of excessive itching or rashes. However, since Turmeric won’t be able to eradicate scabies completely, other treatment methods might still be needed.
5. Borax
Use borax to wash your clothes, bedding, and other laundry items to get rid of scabies mites. However, exercise caution and do not use borax directly on the skin as it is not safe to use on human skin.
6. Bleach
Dilute bleach and use it to wash down the mites from your laundry items with immediate effectiveness. Bleach will burn the exoskeletons of the mites, causing them to dehydrate and ultimately die.
7. Vaccum
Regularly Vaccum your furniture and floor mats to ensure there are no mites hiding in the nooks and corners. This will not only prevent you from infestation but your pets as well.
Why is Scabies a Hazard?
Scabies are highly contagious and can not only put you but your family members in danger as well. Scabies can happen with skin-to-skin contact and through sharing the same laundry clothes like beddings, etc. The most common areas of scabies spread are close-quarter living spaces and hospitals. Scabies can cause rashes and excessive itchiness that can hamper the daily activities of an infected person.
Effective Ways to Avoid Scabies Infestation
- Steer clear of people who already have a scabies infection.
- If your family member is infected with Scabies, it is advised to maintain distance while you take care of them.
- Regularly wash the beddings and other clothing items of an infected person with bleach or borax on high heat settings.
- Vacuum the house to get rid of mites or mite eggs.
