Re: how long can parasites/bacteria live outside body?

I believe it is a two weeks up to 20 days without human contact. If you dont want to wash or sterilize the items...I was told to put my clothes, pillows, toys or whatever in a black garbage bag, seal it tight with tape and let them sit for 2 weeks untouched and that would kill off any eggs. Im not sure if this goes for all parasites but it worked for pinworms. Also, try wearing a mask when changing the sheets and mop and vaccum often. I also wash underpants seperately and add boiling pot of water to the washer in addition to the hot cycle on the machine, bleach when possible.