Important Things To Consider When Using Diatomaceous Earth For Pest Control

Is there anything more aggravating than watching ants march their way right across your kitchen countertops? If you're anxious to get rid of uninvited pests but need a non-toxic solution, diatomaceous earth may be an excellent choice. This inert dust easily takes care of common pests by dehydrating them. It's made up a very abrasive natural substance called silica, which has sharp edges that also wound insects. There are a number of ways to use diatomaceous earth around your home and garden, including for pest control. However, to keep your family and pets safe, you need to exercise caution when applying it by wearing protective gear. You should also ensure you choose the correct type of diatomaceous earth. 

While small amounts of silica are always present in our bodies, topical exposure can be mildly irritating for humans. Therefore, you should always wear protective eyewear and cover your skin to avoid direct contact with diatomaceous earth. Inhaling large amounts can also cause coughing and shortness of breath. To avoid respiratory distress, it's important to wear a dust mask during application.  

Furthermore, keep children and pets away from treated areas to ensure they're safe. Also minimize foot traffic, especially on hardwood floors, as they can become surprisingly slippery with even a light coating of diatomaceous earth. Last but not least, make sure to use a bagged vacuum to avoid messy plumes of dust during clean up that could be breathed in, and never apply diatomaceous earth near fans or air ducts.

Diatomaceous earth is available at most home improvement stores. You'll likely find three grades: food grade, feed grade, and pool grade. It's important to understand the difference between these options and read the label on the product you purchase to ensure you use it safely.

Both food grade and feed grade diatomaceous earth products are made of amorphous silicon dioxide, an odorless powder. Small quantities of this product when added to food, cosmetics, or animal feed in order to prevent caking are generally recognized as safe by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations. While non-toxic and typically effective for pest control, products containing food or feed grade diatomaceous earth may not have been evaluated as pesticides by the EPA. Whether you plan to use a small amount to get rid of a few pesky ants or a larger application to battle a serious bed bug problem, it's important to carefully check the packaging labels for directions, precautions, and toxicity warnings.

Pool grade diatomaceous earth undergoes a chemical process that results in a highly toxic substance called crystalline silica. Breathing in tiny silica dust particles can cause incurable lung disease. Although it is widely available for purchase as a pool filter powder, pool grade diatomaceous earth is not a safe method of pest control and should never be used in your home. Instead, ensure you always use food or feed safe types, and only use them as directed.