Encountering roaches in your place of living can be a dreadful experience. Coming up with a plan to get rid of said roaches can also be quite an undertaking. However, using a product like diatomaceous earth for roaches can be a good option when it comes to reclaiming your home from these pests.
The best way to use diatomaceous earth for roaches
In regards to how to use diatomaceous earth for roaches, DE can be used in eliminating roaches by applying a thin layer to treat your target area. Diatomaceous earth has the potential to provide long-lasting protection against cockroach infestations.
As a versatile and natural product, taking advantage of food-grade diatomaceous earth is a safe and effective way to stave off any roach issues you may be experiencing.
How to apply diatomaceous earth for roaches
The way you go about applying this product is very important when considering the long-term effectiveness. Here are a few things to consider before applying diatomaceous earth:
1. Prepare the area
This may include a combination of cleaning and sealing areas where roaches may enter the home. A good sanitation routine using sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming, for example, can help keep roaches at bay. Additionally, utilizing caulking or sealant around cracks and badly sealed areas can help minimize future pests from getting in.
2. Apply DE
Diatomaceous earth is best applied in a light coating, as coating too heavily could potentially deter the roaches. You can use the applicator of your choice while applying to a dry area with roach activity. Although a wet application method can be used to apply in tight, hard to reach cracks and crevices, DE will only be effective in its dry state, or when it has been allowed to dry completely if applying wet.
3. Allow the substance to work
Give the diatomaceous earth time to remain in place until you are no longer experiencing roach activity. At this point, you can carefully clean and remove any remaining DE, or leave in place to help prevent any future recurrence. When left in place, this product can last and continue to keep working for up to many weeks to even a year if undisturbed in dry conditions. This allows you to take advantage of the value of having a long-lasting product.
How does diatomaceous earth kill roaches?
Diatomaceous earth, or DE, is derived from the fossilized remnants of diatoms, which is a type of algae. The consistency is similar to fine, powdery dust with abrasive qualities. These small plant fragments can perforate through the roach’s outer exoskeleton after coming in contact with the substance. This, in turn, compromises the insect’s outward layer of protection.
How DE kills roaches involves depleting its moisture levels, thus making the bug succumb to dehydration. Also, when thinking about how to use diatomaceous earth for roaches, it is good to know that it is also capable of killing other insects like ants and bed bugs, for example.
How long does it take to kill them?
DE is an overall highly effective way of getting rid of unwanted cockroaches. The amount of time it takes to kill these roaches may vary from case to case. A roach can succumb after direct contact anywhere from within hours to several days. In general, you can expect to notice a difference in your roach population, from the use of diatomaceous earth, within an average of about two to three weeks. Depending on the specific product, this timeframe can be slightly sooner or later.
What type of applicator should I use to apply DE?
There are several different styles of applicators to assist with using diatomaceous earth for roaches. A few of the various types of applicators include the following:
1. The Duster
The duster is probably one of the more popular application tools, and it’s known for its precision in getting your product into the intended places. The duster outputs DE in a clean line to help get better coverage into small spaces.
2. The Scoop
The scoop can be used for a variety of tasks in addition to helping with the application of diatomaceous earth. This method is also a very straightforward and easy way to apply the product.
3. The Sifter
A sifter is a good tool option that allows for a more even spread. This can come in handy when working with a larger area needing coverage.
There is no right or wrong way when it comes down to choosing an applicator. Depending on your preference, you can still work towards achieving your desired goal of getting rid of roaches regardless of your application method.
Can Diatomaceous Earth be used outside to kill roaches?
DE is versatile enough to be utilized both indoors and outdoors. This is extremely helpful considering the havoc that roaches can cause both inside and out of the home, including damage to your plants. If you plan on treating an area that may be near edible plants, it is recommended that you use the safer food-grade diatomaceous earth.
When applying outdoors, similar to the indoor method, you would carefully apply the DE in a light layer using the applicator of your choice. You can apply near plants, cracks, crevices, and any nests you may spot. Make sure to reapply DE after any bouts of rain, as it is only effective when dry. Additionally, don’t forget to wear protective gear like gloves, a dust mask, and goggles to avoid any irritation through inadvertent contact.
What is the Best DE for cockroaches?
There is no shortage of diatomaceous earth available on the market for both consumers and pest control professionals. With the many options available, it can be a challenge to sift through the numerous products. However, the best DE for cockroaches include:
- Harris Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade
- Safer Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer
Harris Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade
Harris has been a trusted brand in the pest control business since 1922. Their 100% all-natural DE conveniently comes in multiple sizes and is safe to use near children and pets.
Pros
- Organic product
- Derived from ground freshwater DE
- Includes a powder duster
- Comes with applicator extension and fine tip nozzle
- Safe to use around people and animals
Cons
- Must be careful not to overfill duster to prevent clogging
Safer Diatomaceous Earth Crawling Insect Killer
Safer Brand DE is another great product that is effective against crawling insects, including roaches. Although this item is not food-grade DE, when applied as directed, it is considered to be safe to use inside and outside the home.
Pros
- Kills bugs within 48 hours
- Can use both indoors and outdoors
- Insects cannot become immune to the product
Cons
- This particular item is not of the food-grade variety and additional caution is needed when applying.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, no one wants to have to deal with an inconvenient roach infestation. Diatomaceous earth can be an excellent standalone solution or part of a more comprehensive approach to the overall treatment of roaches in the home. Luckily, DE is fairly simple for anyone to use to help get rid of pesky critters.
Moreover, there are a variety of different applicators you can utilize to apply the DE product of your choice. A plethora of great products exists in this space including brands like Harris Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade and Safer Diatomaceous Earth-Bed Bug Flea, Ant, Crawling Insect Killer.
So the next time you think about how to use diatomaceous earth for roaches, you’ll know that DE is a great long-term pest control solution to help eliminate roaches on your property.
