What disinfectant is used for scabies?
Sep 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general situations, scabies disinfection can be achieved using high temperatures, chlorine-containing disinfectants, 75% alcohol, ultraviolet light, steam cleaners, and similar items. These can effectively kill scabies mites in different scenarios. When disinfecting, it is important to select the appropriate disinfection method according to the characteristics of each item and avoid mixing disinfectants. After disinfection, timely ventilation and maintaining a dry environment are necessary to reduce the risk of scabies mite residue.
In general, scabies disinfection can be achieved using high temperatures, chlorine-containing disinfectants, 75% alcohol, ultraviolet light, steam cleaners, and other methods, which can effectively kill scabies mites in different scenarios. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. High Temperature: Hot water and high-temperature drying above 60°C can effectively kill scabies mites, making them suitable for disinfecting fabrics such as clothing, bed sheets, and pillowcases. Soak the fabrics in hot water above 60°C, then dry them in a dryer at temperatures above 60°C for more than 20 minutes, or directly expose them to strong sunlight for 4–6 hours to destroy the mites through high temperatures.
2. Chlorine-Containing Disinfectants: Chlorine-containing disinfectants have strong oxidizing properties and can be used for environmental disinfection, such as floors, walls, and mattresses. Dilute the disinfectant according to the instructions, use the diluted solution to wipe surfaces, or spray it onto mattresses. Keep the area sealed for 30 minutes, then open windows for ventilation to remove residual odors.
3. 75% Alcohol: 75% alcohol can rapidly kill scabies mites and is suitable for disinfecting frequently touched small objects such as doorknobs, remote controls, towels, and razors. Wipe the object's surface directly with a 75% alcohol wipe, or apply alcohol using a cotton swab and leave it for 5 minutes. Avoid using it on large fabric areas.
4. Ultraviolet Light: Ultraviolet light has a sterilizing effect and can be used to disinfect clothing, bedding, and environments. Spread fabrics flat under strong sunlight for 4–6 hours, turning them periodically. If using a UV lamp, close doors and windows and irradiate the room for 1–2 hours. Ensure that all people leave the room during irradiation to avoid UV-related injuries.
5. Steam Cleaner: High-temperature steam can penetrate fabric fibers and crevices to kill scabies mites, making it suitable for disinfecting non-washable items such as sofas, curtains, and mattresses. Use a steam cleaner set to a temperature above 100°C, slowly moving the steam over the item's surface to ensure complete coverage and destroy mites and eggs using high-temperature steam.
When disinfecting, choose appropriate methods based on the characteristics of different items and avoid mixing disinfectants. After disinfection, ventilate promptly and maintain a dry environment to reduce the risk of scabies mite residue.
