Indoor Pest Control. DE removes the waxy outer layer of insects’ exoskeleton which helps them maintain moisture, thus causing them to dehydrate. Use it on carpets, upholstery, or anywhere else you think bugs or pests may be lurking. Brush or vacuum the area first, then spread a light film of DE over the whole surface. Leave it for 4-12 hours and then vacuum. Repeat weekly for 3-4 weeks. You can also spread it around the outside of your home or in other areas where pests like spiders and ants show up. Safer and cheaper than harsh chemicals!
Natural Garden Pest Control. DE is best used dry. Lightly sprinkle it where slugs, Japanese beetles, or other unwanted pests will come in contact with it. Make sure to keep it away from insects that you do want, like bees. It’s not as effective when wet, so refresh your treatment if the area gets wet.
Animal Health. DE is helpful for keeping unwanted pests away from your animals. Include DE in your chickens’ dust bath to prevent lice or in your animals’ feed as a natural way to fight off fleas, worms, and other parasites. You can also give your indoor pets (or their beds) a light dusting to help fight against fleas and allergies. I also like to put down a like layer of DE in the bottom of the coop and in nesting boxes after cleaning and before bedding is added to help prevent mites and lice.
Skin Exfoliation. DE can be a great exfoliator every once in a while. Use it as part of a facial scrub or mask by mixing 1 tablespoon with water, milk, or diluted honey to make a thick paste. Massage it into your face in circular motions and let it set for 1-2 minutes before removing it with a warm washcloth, again in small, circular motions.
Food Preservation.
Food Preservation. Mix a small amount of DE with dry grains, and legumes (about 1 tablespoon in a 5-gallon bucket of grain) to prevent weevils. If you’ve ever had weevils you know how frustrating they can be to get rid of!
