Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural substance that has gained popularity for its effectiveness in pest control and other household applications. It’s a fine, powdery material made from the fossilized remains of what are called diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. DE has been hailed as a safe, non-toxic alternative to chemical pesticides, and many people use it to combat pests like fleas and ants. It is also widely used as one of the best bed bug treatments. Diatomaceous Earth kills bed bugs infesting your bed by drying them to death.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, "Can I put diatomaceous earth on my bed?" The answer is yes, but there are important considerations and precautions to keep in mind. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits, risks, and best practices for using diatomaceous earth on your bed.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is composed of tiny, sharp particles that are abrasive to the exoskeletons of insects. When insects come into contact with DE, the powder cuts through their protective layers, causing them to dehydrate and die. This makes DE an effective tool for controlling pests without the use of harsh chemicals.
There are two main types of diatomaceous earth: food-grade and filter-grade (or pool-grade). Food-grade DE is safe for use around humans and pets, while filter-grade DE is not safe for household use because it contains higher levels of crystalline silica, which can be harmful if inhaled. Food grade has also been converted to what is called crawling insect control diatomaceous earth. This product is safe and effective and is actually rated and approved by the EPA as a legal pesticide that is natural and safe.
For the purposes of pest control in your home, including on your bed, only crawling insect control diatomaceous earth should be used.
Benefits of Using Diatomaceous Earth on Your Bed
Natural Pest Control: One of the primary reasons people use DE on their beds is to combat bed bugs. Bed bugs are notorious for being difficult to eliminate, but DE provides an effective and natural solution. When applied correctly, DE can help to kill bed bugs by damaging their exoskeletons and preventing them from multiplying.
Non-Toxic and Safe: Unlike chemical pesticides, crawling insect control diatomaceous earth is non-toxic and safe for humans and pets. This makes it an appealing option for those who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with traditional pest control methods.
Long-Lasting Effectiveness: Diatomaceous earth remains effective as long as it stays dry. This means that once you apply it to your bed, it can continue to kill pests for an extended period of time, providing ongoing protection against infestations.
Environmentally Friendly: DE is a natural, biodegradable substance that does not harm the environment. It’s a great choice for those looking to minimize their environmental footprint while still effectively managing pests.
Risks and Precautions
While diatomaceous earth is generally safe, there are some risks and precautions to consider before using it on your bed:
Respiratory Irritation: Although food-grade DE is low in crystalline silica, it’s still a fine powder that can cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. It’s important to wear a mask when applying DE and to avoid creating clouds of dust.
Dryness and Skin Irritation: DE can cause dryness and irritation if it comes into prolonged contact with your skin. To prevent this, avoid long periods of direct contact with the powder and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it.
Messy Application: Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder, and applying it to your bed can be messy. It can leave a residue on your sheets and mattress that may be difficult to clean. It’s important to apply DE carefully and to vacuum it up after a few days to avoid a mess.
Effectiveness Requires Proper Application: For DE to be effective, it must come into direct contact with the pests. This means that simply sprinkling it on your bed may not be enough. It’s important to follow proper application techniques to ensure that the DE is applied in a way that maximizes its effectiveness.
How to Safely Apply Diatomaceous Earth to Your Bed
If you’ve decided to use diatomaceous earth on your bed, here are some steps to follow for safe and effective application:
Prepare Your Space: Before applying DE, strip your bed of all linens, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress covers. Wash these items in hot water to kill any existing pests. If a steam cleaner is available, please steam clean your mattress as best as possible.
Apply DE to the Mattress: Using a dust applicator or a sieve, lightly sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth onto the surface of your mattress. Focus on areas where bed bugs are likely to hide, such as seams, edges, and crevices. Be sure to apply a thin, even layer of DE, as too much can create a mess and make it difficult for the powder to reach the pests.
Treat Bed Frames and Surrounding Areas: Bed bugs can hide in cracks and crevices in your bed frame and nearby furniture. Apply DE to these areas as well, paying special attention to joints, corners, and other potential hiding spots.
Allow Time for DE to Work: Leave the diatomaceous earth on your mattress and surrounding areas for at least 72 hours and up to 7 days to allow it to work. During this time, avoid sleeping on the bed to minimize exposure to the powder.
Vacuum Thoroughly: After 72 hours, use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to thoroughly vacuum up the diatomaceous earth. Be sure to vacuum all treated areas, including the mattress, bed frame, and surrounding furniture. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately to prevent re-infestation. You may also use a wet/dry vacuum in this situation.
Reapply if Necessary: If you continue to see signs of pests, you may need to reapply diatomaceous earth. Repeat the process as needed until the infestation is completely eliminated.
Conclusion
Diatomaceous earth can be a safe and effective way to combat pests like bed bugs on your bed. However, it’s important to use crawling insect control DE and to follow proper application techniques to ensure the best results. While DE is non-toxic and environmentally friendly, it does require careful handling to avoid respiratory irritation.
If you’re looking for a natural alternative to chemical pesticides, diatomaceous earth is a great option to consider. By understanding the benefits and risks of using diatomaceous earth on your bed, you can make an informed decision and take the necessary steps to protect your home from unwanted pests.
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