After the initial shock of hearing about their child’s pinworm infection wears off, a common question asked by parents is, “How do I make sure there are no more pinworms in my house?”
Where should you start when it comes to cleaning your home post-pinworm infection? For several days after treatment, it is important to clean the bedroom floors, either by vacuuming or damp mopping.
After treatment has been administered, you should also wash all bed linens in hot water. Remember – do not shake these items out before putting them in the washing machine.
Toilet seats and other shared surfaces – think doorknobs, faucet handles, couches, etc. – should be continuously cleaned as well.
On top of cleaning these areas of the home, you will also want to make sure your child showers daily following infection. The CDC recommends showering instead of bathing to avoid possible contamination of bath water. Additionally, pajamas, underwear, towels, and washcloths should all be washed in hot water after each wear/use.
While you’re busy doing all this cleaning and laundering, also pay close attention to your young children. Touching or scratching the infected area can transfer pinworm eggs onto your hands, resulting in further spread of the infection. Reminding the whole family to continue washing their hands frequently is key to preventing re-infection!