Diatomaceous earth (DE) is an effective, non-chemical tool against bed bugs. This silica-based powder works by slowly dehydrating bed bugs and other crawling insects. Although DE is non-toxic, it can be hazardous when inhaled. For that reason, we’re here to teach you how to kill bed bugs with diatomaceous earth safely.
In this article, we’ll discuss what diatomaceous earth is, how effective it is against bed bugs, how to apply it safely, and where to buy it.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a silica-based desiccating powder made from minuscule particles of fossilized diatoms (a type of microalgae). There are four types of DE currently available in stores:
- Pesticide-grade diatomaceous earth
- Insecticide dusts that contain diatomaceous earth in their composition but include other ingredients, such as pyrethrins
- Food-grade diatomaceous earth
- Pool-grade diatomaceous earth
If you have bed bugs, the best option is to call a pest control pro. But if you opt to use diatomaceous earth as a home remedy for bed bugs and other crawling pests, always opt for pesticide-grade diatomaceous earth or an insecticide dust containing DE. These products are properly registered as pesticides and are the best type of DE to get rid of bed bugs.
Although it is popularly believed that food-grade diatomaceous earth can work against bed bugs, its use as a pesticide is not recommended by the EPA. Similarly, pool-grade diatomaceous should never be applied inside the home. Both formulations are hazardous when inhaled.
Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Bed Bugs?
Yes, diatomaceous earth is regarded as effective at killing bed bugs and their nymphs (the baby bed bugs), although it doesn’t work against the eggs. Bed bugs look like apple seeds, and a waxy coat covers their exoskeleton. Diatomaceous earth works by destroying this coat, causing the bugs to dehydrate and die in a couple of days.
Diatomaceous earth doesn’t attract bed bugs, but they won’t avoid it either. It’s a passive form of treatment. As they walk through areas with DE, it coats their bodies and causes gradual dehydration and death.
DE has a distinct advantage over chemical treatments: Because it works in a physical way rather than as a chemical, bed bugs can’t develop a resistance to the substance as they can with regular pesticides.
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe?
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance, but it can be harmful to the lungs when inhaled. It should not be inhaled, eaten, or come in direct contact with the skin or eyes. The side effects of exposure to DE include:
- Irritation in the nasal passages, coughing, and shortness of breath. When inhaled in large quantities, it can accumulate in lung tissue and lymph nodes.
- Irritation and dryness when in contact with eyes and skin.
- Very little is absorbed when eaten, as the body excretes the substance rapidly.
Following the label instructions will reduce the risk of exposure. Other measures to reduce this risk are as follows:
- Choose a product registered as a pesticide.
- Wear goggles, gloves, a dust mask, and long sleeves.
- Keep pets and children away while applying the product.
- Avoid the application in easily accessed or high-traffic areas (and keep in mind that children and pets often explore areas closer to the floor than adults generally do).
- Turn off vacuums and fans while applying and being mindful of windows, swinging doors, and air vents.
- Opt for other ways to get rid of bed bugs: Use a steamer, wash and dry affected fabrics using high heat, or place items in the freezer to kill bed bugs without DE.
How to Apply Diatomaceous Earth for Bed Bugs
Most diatomaceous earth products come as a dust, but some formulations come as wettable powders and even pressurized liquids. Always opt for an EPA-registered, pesticide-grade product and follow the specific instructions on the product label.
Here’s an overview of how to apply diatomaceous earth dust:
- Protect yourself with goggles, gloves, a mask, and long-sleeved clothing.
- Apply a thin layer by squeezing the bottle or using a bulb duster. Let the dust settle for about an hour.
- Clean any excess, visible dust with a vacuum or a wet rag and throw it in the trash.
- Repeat the process as indicated on the label. It might take one to two weeks to show results and up to two months to eliminate an entire bed bug infestation.
Pro tip: The diatomaceous earth dust loses its efficacy when wet, so unless you buy the product as a wettable powder, do not apply it as a bed bug spray.
Where to Apply Diatomaceous Earth
Insecticide dust that combines DE with pyrethrins or other chemical insecticides should be applied only to the places that the instructions on the label specify, typically small cracks and crevices. But because pure diatomaceous earth is a natural product, it has a broader range of uses.
You can use 100% pesticide-grade diatomaceous earth on:
- Bed frames, behind headboards, and under baseboards
- Behind switch plates and electrical outlets
- The spaces around the bed and behind wall plates
- Carpeting and couch seams
This video shows how to use diatomaceous earth on a couch:
Where Can I Buy Diatomaceous Earth for Bed Bugs?
Diatomaceous earth is easily found online or in physical stores. Here are some options for you:
Pro tip: If you’re having doubts about which brand of diatomaceous earth to buy, read the reviews left by other buyers online.
FAQ About How to Kill Bed Bugs With Diatomaceous Earth
Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe for Pets?
Diatomaceous earth is harmful if inhaled by both humans and pets. It is best to keep kids and pets away from the room while applying diatomaceous earth.
Can I Put Diatomaceous Earth on My Bed?
You can apply 100% DE to bed frames and the spaces around the bed if you follow the precautions discussed in this article. However, because of the risks associated with diatomaceous earth exposure, it is not advisable to use it on your mattress.
For the mattress and boxsprings, you can use a mattress encasement instead. It will prevent new bed bugs from infesting your mattress and keep the ones already there from biting you or escaping.
What is the Difference Between Diatomaceous Earth and Other Home Remedies?
While diatomaceous earth is considered an effective, non-chemical method to control bed bugs, other popular home remedies have no concrete evidence suggesting their effectiveness. Here are some home remedies that don’t work against bed bugs and our guides with more information about them:
- Baking soda (Does Baking Soda Kill Bed Bugs?)
- Vinegar (Does Vinegar Kill Bed Bugs?)
- Borax needs to be ingested to work, and since bed bugs don’t eat anything besides our blood, it won’t kill bed bugs.
- Sticky traps are effective to detect bed bugs, but not to eliminate them.
- Rubbing alcohol doesn’t work and can cause serious accidents. A single spark could cause a fire.
Find a Pro Near You
Dealing with bed bugs is no joke. While using diatomaceous earth is practical, it is a slow-acting method and can take up to two months to rid your home of an infestation. But if you want faster results, contact a professional in your area. Get in touch today and see yourself finally free from bed bugs.
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Main Image Credits:
Background: AndreyPopov / Canva Pro / License
Bed Bug: Dmitry Bezrukov / Canva Pro / License
Diatomaceous Earth: Spitfire1973 / Canva Pro / License
