How Do I Prevent Lice From Coming Back?
How Do I Prevent Lice From Coming Back?
You treated lice, now what? The last thing any parent wants is for head lice to return after all that combing and cleaning. Fortunately, there are simple, effective ways to prevent re-infestation and keep your home lice-free.
In this post, we’ll show you exactly how to stop lice from coming back with everyday habits, smart prevention products, and a few important household steps.
1. Do a Follow-Up Head Check (7–10 Days Later)
Even after treatment, it’s possible that a few nits were missed. That’s why it’s essential to do a second lice check about a week after the first. Use a fine-tooth lice comb and inspect your child’s scalp, especially behind the ears and neck.
Pro Tip: Repeat checks every 2–3 days for 2 weeks if there’s been a known outbreak.
2. Use a Daily Lice Prevention Spray
Lice don’t jump or fly, they crawl. But they’re repelled by certain natural scents like rosemary, citronella, and tea tree oil. Using a daily lice repellent spray on your child’s hair, hat, or backpack can help prevent lice from settling in.
Try: Nit Picky® Lice Prevention Spray – kid-safe, natural, and effective.
3. Teach Kids to Avoid Head-to-Head Contact
Most lice spread through direct head-to-head contact, especially in schools, camps, and sleepovers.
Remind your child to:
Avoid sharing hats, helmets, scarves, and brushes
Tie back long hair into braids or buns
Avoid piling jackets and hats in shared bins
Avoid hugging and taking selfies
4. Wash Household Items That Touched the Head
Lice can only survive 72 hours off the scalp, but it’s smart to clean these items after treatment:
Pillowcases, sheets, and blankets
Hairbrushes, combs, and hair ties (fabric)
Backpacks, hoodies, helmets, and hats
Stuffed animals (bag them for 2 days or toss in the dryer)
Throw pillows and bean bags
Use hot water and high heat where possible—or seal items in a plastic bag for 72 hours.
5. Continue Using the Lice Comb Weekly
Even if lice seem gone, doing a quick weekly comb-through can catch any new bugs before they become a problem. This is especially useful during peak lice season or when your child is regularly around others.
Pro Tip: Take A Peak Once A Week!
6. Stay Alert During “Lice Season”
Head lice cases tend to rise in back-to-school months (August–October) and spring (March–May). Stay proactive with checks and prevention during these times. Head Lice become very active and reproduce quickly in the heat of summer (June-August) although it typically spreads quickly when students return to school.
Final Thoughts: Stay One Step Ahead of Lice
Preventing lice from coming back is easier than you think, especially when you build simple habits into your family’s routine. Regular checks, a reliable lice prevention spray, and a little awareness can go a long way.
Need a proven lice prevention solution? Try Nit Picky®'s Lice Repellant Spray powered by natural ingredients, safe for daily use, and loved by parents.
Learn how to check your child for head lice at home.
Have Questions?
We’re here to help. Contact Nit Picky® for expert lice advice, in-home treatment services, or to order our natural lice prevention products.
If you’re dealing with lice, the best solution is professional, thorough treatment, not chasing myths. Nit Picky® offers both professional in-home lice removal services and DIY lice treatment products trusted by families for more than 20 years. Whether you prefer the support of a trained expert or want to treat at home with our professional-grade combs, lice treatment shampoo, nit dissolver, and prevention sprays, Nit Picky® has you covered.
Need help now? Book a Nit Picky® in-home lice treatment today. Call (877) 888-2820
Visit our Lice Education page for expert information.
