Is Bleach Effective for Disinfecting Clothes After Scabies?

Is using bleach disinfectant effective for sanitizing clothes infected with scabies?

Dear Dr.
Huang,
Last time you mentioned that the underwear, bed sheets, and blankets of individuals with scabies should be treated in one of the following ways (any one of these is acceptable): 1.
Soak in water above 60 degrees Celsius.
2.
Thoroughly dry in a dryer.
3.
Iron carefully.
4.
Dry clean.
5.
Seal in a large plastic bag and leave it for two weeks.

I would like to ask if commercially available bleach disinfectants are effective? Is hot water from a water heater sufficient? (Because my parents are elderly and have limited mobility, I am looking for the simplest method.) Additionally, if I apply ointment all over my body before returning to Kaohsiung, can it prevent reinfestation? It is quite frustrating; every time I almost recover, I return and things go wrong again.

Thank you, Mr.
Ma.

Mr. Ma, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/22

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

There is no evidence showing the effectiveness of bleach against scabies mites.
The high-temperature water from a water heater usually does not reach 60 degrees Celsius (which poses a risk of burns).
If you want to avoid the hassle, it's best to take your items to a laundromat, where they typically dry and iron them thoroughly.
It's important for the entire family to be treated simultaneously; applying medication only on yourself is not very effective.

Reply Date: 2005/05/22

More Info

When it comes to disinfecting clothes and bedding after a scabies infestation, the primary concern is effectively eliminating the scabies mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) and their eggs. While bleach is a common household disinfectant, its effectiveness against scabies mites is not well-documented. The primary methods recommended for treating clothing and bedding include washing items in hot water (at least 60 degrees Celsius), using a dryer on high heat, ironing, dry cleaning, or sealing items in a plastic bag for two weeks. These methods are proven to be effective in killing the mites.

Using bleach on fabrics can be risky, as it may damage the material or cause discoloration. Additionally, there is no substantial evidence to suggest that bleach is effective against scabies mites specifically. Therefore, it is advisable to stick to the recommended methods for treating clothing and bedding.

Regarding the use of hot water from a water heater, it is crucial to ensure that the water temperature reaches at least 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) to effectively kill the mites. Many household water heaters do not reach this temperature, which could lead to ineffective disinfection. If the water is not hot enough, it would be better to wash the items in a washing machine set to the appropriate temperature.

As for the concern about applying topical treatments to prevent reinfestation, it is essential to follow the advice of your healthcare provider. While applying a medicated cream or lotion can help treat existing infestations, it may not necessarily prevent new infections if you are exposed to contaminated items or environments. It is crucial to ensure that all household members are treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation.

In summary, while bleach is a powerful disinfectant, it is not the most effective or recommended method for treating clothing and bedding after a scabies infestation. Instead, focus on washing items in hot water, using a dryer, or sealing them in plastic bags. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options to ensure a complete resolution of the scabies infestation and to prevent future occurrences.

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