TikTok's Trick For An Easy Application Of Diatomaceous Earth (& Should You Try It?)

They say slow and steady wins the race, but for gardeners applying diatomaceous earth to a large, outdoor space, slow and steady may not be helpful. One of the downsides to using diatomaceous earth is that it can be time-consuming to apply it to spacious areas. However, TikToker @alva.review shows that this doesn't have to be the case as long as you have a drill and a water jug. Diatomaceous earth comes from sedimentary rock that is made of fossilized diatoms, small organisms found in bodies of water. The accumulation of these fossils forms large deposits that are mined and turned into diatomaceous earth. But what is diatomaceous earth used for? Often, the powder helps with pest control.

In this gardening hack, a drill is attached to the cap of a plastic jug filled with diatomaceous earth. As the drill spins the jug in circles, the powder spews out from holes on the lower half of the bottle. An upside to this creative method is that it casts a wide and even dispersal of diatomaceous earth across a lawn. It also covers more ground in a shorter amount of time compared to other application methods like a duster with a manual pump. Plus, if you already have a drill at home, the hack can cost you less than that of a lawn spreader. Just be careful that you follow all necessary precautions when using this hack.

If you're curious about how to apply diatomaceous earth to your outdoor space, you'll quickly learn that many of the recommendations are better suited for smaller areas and precise applications of the powder. For example, scattering diatomaceous earth around the base of pest-infested plants is one suggestion, while dusting a layer of diatomaceous earth around your home at entry points, is another. Meanwhile, for vast applications of the powder, guidance is minimal. The drill-jug applicator in the TikTok, however, presents a potential solution for those who need to make a wide surface application of the powder in a timely manner, filling a gap for those who need it.

Additionally, because smaller applications of the powder are typical, tools that are available to purchase for applying the powder reflect this. A paintbrush, turkey baster, and flour sifter are a few of the DIY applicators recommended. A hand duster is another suggestion. In terms of efficacy for large spaces, these tools won't be as effective at covering more ground, compared to the TikTok hack. A lawn spreader is a viable option to spread the powder quickly and effectively, though it means an additional cost. In contrast, if you already have a drill at home, all you need is a plastic water jug to recreate the TikTok hack and save yourself some money.

It makes sense to think about the potential hazards that this TikTok hack presents because neither the drill nor water jug are being used as they were intended. Using tools in a manner outside of what they were created for can increase your risk of injury. The momentum gained as the drill turns the water jug in circles is what allows the diatomaceous earth to exit the water jug in an even layer. Something to think about, though, is what can happen if the water jug detaches from the drill mid-spin? The parts separating during the application process, at the rate that they're being spun, can pose a safety hazard. Consider protective gear like goggles and other face coverage, chaps, and thick gloves, and exercise extreme caution when attempting this hack. Make sure others are not standing close by.

Additionally, the volume and wide dispersal of diatomaceous earth being applied with this method may increase your chances of inhaling a higher amount of the powder compared to an application method that is dispersing a smaller amount of the powder. Inhaling diatomaceous earth can irritate your nasal passages and make it hard to breathe. This may make you rethink using diatomaceous earth in your garden, but it's why wearing protective gear while applying the substance is generally recommended. With this TikTok hack, dressing in safety gear is a step you won't want to skip.