Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is made from the remains of diatoms, which are tiny organisms that lived in rivers, streams, lakes and oceans. Diatom skeletons are made up of silicon dioxide, a combination of silica and oxygen. Silica is very common in nature and it makes up 26% of the earth's crust.

Diatomaceous earth is very abrasive to an insect's exoskeleton, causing them to dry out and die. Diatomaceous earth is used in a variety of settings, including indoor applications for controlling bed bugs, fleas, cockroaches, and carpet beetles.

Information about Diatomaceous Earth

• What is diatomaceous earth?
• What are some products that contain diatomaceous earth?
• How does diatomaceous earth work?
• How might I be exposed to diatomaceous earth?
• What are some signs and symptoms from a brief exposure to diatomaceous earth?
• What happens to diatomaceous earth when it enter the body?
• Is diatomaceous earth likely to contribute to the development of cancer?
• Has anyone studied non-cancer effects from long-term exposure to diatomaceous earth?
• Are children more sensitive to diatomaceous earth than adults?
• What happens to diatomaceous earth in the environment?
• Can diatomaceous earth affect birds, fish, and other wildlife?

Diatomaceous Earth Fact Sheet (Web | PDF)

Is 'food grade' diatomaceous earth okay for pest control?

Bed Bugs

Carpet beetles

Cockroaches

Fleas

If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST), or email at npic@ace.orst.edu.