Does Diatomaceous Earth Kill Bed Bugs?
WouterOne popular question people ask is, “Does diatomaceous earth kill bed bugs?” The answer depends on the type of bed bug you have. Bed bugs need to feed every five to ten days. This means a diatomaceous earth bed bug treatment must last anywhere from two to four weeks before you can see the results.
You can use diatomaceous earth on mattresses, bedding, and carpets to kill bed bugs. To treat these items, be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions. Be sure to thoroughly vacuum the area. Then sprinkle the powder on the affected areas, paying particular attention to seams and furniture frames. Be sure to use protective gloves when working with diatomaceous earth.
Diatomaceous earth is available in different grades. You should use food grade diatomaceous earth for insect control, while pool grade is for use in pools. However, diatomaceous earth for pools contains a high concentration of crystalline silica, which is dangerous to human health.
The National Pest Management Association tracks bed bug killing and control. Bed bugs can be a serious nuisance and can spread diseases, including rashes. Bed bugs can also be hazardous to pets and children, so it’s best to kill them as soon as possible. In addition to applying diatomaceous earth, you can also use heat treatments to kill the bugs. Washing your bedding in hot water with chlorine bleach and setting it in the dryer on the hottest setting can help kill bed bugs.
