How to Remove Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is made from finely ground fossilized remains of microscopic organisms that are called diatoms. This powder is porous, light, and abrasive, making it able to stick to the pest's body as it dries out the oils and fats in their body, and exterminating them. It can be an effective pesticide used both inside and outside of the home. It is a non-toxic substance that is very effective in controlling many pests that reside in the home. It is not toxic or poisonous, but breathing problems can arise from inhaling it.

Diatomaceous earth can be used to exterminate bugs that have made their way into a home. Using this powder is a wonderful alternative to harmful, toxic pesticides. There are safety precautions that should be taken when using diatomaceous earth to ensure the safety of those cleaning and also those living in the home. None of the diatomaceous earth should be left behind, and cleaning should be done with much care. The method for removing diatomaceous earth from a surface greatly depends on what type of surface it has been applied to and what other items in the house have been exposed to it.

Method One

• Find a towel suitable in size.
• Moisten the towel, and wipe away the diatomaceous earth the same way you'd wipe away flour.
• Shake the towel out over a trash can or outside.
• It is recommended to wash the towel separate from other laundry to avoid contamination.

Method Two

• Use a brush or broom.
• Sweep the diatomaceous earth into a dustpan and throw into the trash.
• If the particles become airborne, lightly cover the floor with water before sweeping. Don't soak it, but spray enough to hold it to the ground.

When cleaning carpets of diatomaceous earth, using a vacuum is the best choice all around. Typical vacuums do have their limits, and if caution isn't taken, regular vacuums can be ruined. Vacuums with a HEPA (high efficiency particulate absorption) filter are designed to catch the microscopic particles of diatomaceous earth.

Method One

• Use a shop vac to vacuum the diatomaceous earth.
• If a shop vac is not already owned, it is possible to either purchase or rent one from stores such as the Home Depot.

Method Two

1. Procure a filter-less vacuum. OR
2. If using a vacuum with a filter, clean out the filter every few minutes. The downside of using a regular vacuum cleaner is that if it is not working efficiently, it will cause clouds of diatomaceous earth dust to blow out.

Method Three

Using a carpet shampooer will scrub out the diatomaceous earth particles. The shampooer has spinning brushes that do a wonderful job of scrubbing even the smallest particles out from the carpet.

Method Four

The drapes can be a forgotten area that can harbor diatomaceous earth particles. Steam cleaners will treat the drapes and remove the left over diatomaceous earth particles with no hassle. The steam works to penetrate the fabric of the drapes, and removes the minuscule particles that have become trapped over the course of the use.

Precautions

Diatomaceous earth can make its way into your lungs, and can cause damage if it is not labeled as “food grade”.

1. A face mask should be worn when working with it, as to not inhale any of the particles.
2. Do not allow children or animals to be exposed to the dust of diatomaceous earth.
3. Avoid skin contact if possible, wear rubber or latex gloves when handling it or cleaning it up.
4. Spraying the airborne particles with water will wet the particles and weigh them down to the ground.
5. If it does come in contact with the skin, wash it off very soon after handling it.

Be aware of all areas that the diatomaceous earth has been placed while using it, so that cleaning it up will be as efficient as possible. Cleaning it up thoroughly the first time will ensure that it does not contaminate any other parts of the home from the soles of shoes or the like.