From the Research
It is highly unlikely to get lice from a car seat, as head lice primarily spread through direct head-to-head contact with an infested person. Head lice cannot jump or fly, and they can only survive for about 24-48 hours away from a human host, requiring human blood to survive 1. While it's technically possible for lice or their eggs (nits) to be transferred to a car seat if an infested person recently used it, the risk of catching lice this way is very low.
Some key points to consider:
- Lice infestations are not related to cleanliness or hygiene practices, and anyone can get lice regardless of personal hygiene habits or socioeconomic status 2.
- If you're concerned about a potentially contaminated car seat, you can vacuum it thoroughly or cover it with a sheet that can be washed in hot water.
- For added precaution, items that may have been in contact with the head of an infested person can be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks to ensure any lice die.
- The most effective treatment for head lice is permethrin, which can be applied in different ways, including a 1-hour shampoo treatment, which has been shown to be highly effective in eradicating head lice within the first week of treatment 1.
Overall, the risk of getting lice from a car seat is extremely low, and taking simple precautions such as vacuuming and washing items that may have come into contact with an infested person can help minimize this risk.