If you’re dealing with a bed bug infestation, how to exterminate bed bugs using diatomaceous earth is one of the most natural and effective solutions. Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a non-toxic, chemical-free powder that can help you eliminate bed bugs and other pests. This guide explains how to use diatomaceous earth to get rid of bed bugs and keep them from returning.
What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of algae. It’s a natural substance that works by physically damaging the exoskeletons of insects, leading to dehydration and death. Unlike chemical treatments, diatomaceous earth doesn’t pose risks to humans, pets, or the environment, making it a safe alternative for exterminating bed bugs.
Step 1: Prepare the Area
Before applying diatomaceous earth, it’s important to prepare the area properly to ensure the best results.
- Clean the area: Vacuum all floors, furniture, and bedding to remove debris, dust, and visible bed bugs. This will help the diatomaceous earth come into contact with the bugs and increase its effectiveness.
- Remove or cover food: Since DE is a powder, you’ll want to cover any food or utensils in the treatment area to prevent contamination.
Step 2: Apply Diatomaceous Earth
To exterminate bed bugs with diatomaceous earth, you’ll need to apply it in the areas where bed bugs are likely hiding.
- Target key areas: Apply the powder in cracks, crevices, seams, and other potential hiding spots, such as along baseboards, in and around furniture, and under the edges of your mattress.
- Use a dusting applicator: Use a duster or shaker bottle to apply a thin, even layer of diatomaceous earth. You don’t need to overdo it—just a light dusting is enough to get the job done.
- Focus on high-traffic areas: Bed bugs tend to travel along walls and furniture, so pay special attention to these areas, especially near your bed or seating areas.
Step 3: Leave Diatomaceous Earth in Place
After applying diatomaceous earth, allow it to sit for several days.
- Don’t disturb it: It’s important not to disturb the powder while it’s working. Bed bugs will crawl through the powder and it will begin to affect them.
- Give it time: Leave the diatomaceous earth in place for at least 3-5 days. The powder will dehydrate and kill bed bugs, including those in their egg stage, over time.
- Reapply if needed: If you see that the powder has been disturbed or if there’s still visible bed bug activity, reapply the diatomaceous earth as necessary.
Step 4: Vacuum and Clean Up
After the treatment period, it’s time to clean up the diatomaceous earth.
- Vacuum the powder: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck up the diatomaceous earth. Make sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or contents immediately to prevent any bed bugs from escaping.
- Reapply if necessary: Depending on the severity of the infestation, you may need to reapply the diatomaceous earth and repeat the process for several weeks to completely eliminate the bed bugs.
Step 5: Prevent Future Infestations
Once you’ve successfully exterminated bed bugs using diatomaceous earth, take steps to prevent a future outbreak.
- Seal cracks and crevices: Bed bugs can re-enter your home through cracks and crevices in walls, floors, and furniture. Seal these gaps to prevent new bugs from coming in.
- Inspect regularly: Conduct regular checks of your bedding, furniture, and other common hiding spots to catch any signs of bed bugs early.
- Use bed bug traps: Place bed bug interceptors under the legs of your furniture to monitor for any future activity.
Conclusion
Using diatomaceous earth is an effective and safe way to exterminate bed bugs without relying on harsh chemicals. By applying the powder in key areas, giving it time to work, and cleaning up afterward, you can significantly reduce the number of bed bugs in your home. While it may take several treatments to fully eliminate an infestation, diatomaceous earth provides a natural, non-toxic solution to your bed bug problem.