The Hack
Diatomaceous Earth is a powder with microscopic sharp edges that an puncture the exoskeletons of fleas.
If it is spread in a fine layer, the idea is that fleas will happen across it, get the microscopic pieces wedged into their shell and kill them.
It is most effective when spread wide and thin, and kept dry, as it absorbs moisture and loses it's effect.
If it is spread in a fine layer, the idea is that fleas will happen across it, get the microscopic pieces wedged into their shell and kill them.
It is most effective when spread wide and thin, and kept dry, as it absorbs moisture and loses it's effect.
Limitations
There is some doubt as to how effective DE is at killing fleas, but even when it does work, it can only kill adults and larvae that happen to walk through it. It has no effect on eggs or larvae. Because of this it needs to be continually applied for at least a full lifecycle... a potentially challenging feat since pupae can remain viable for up to a year.
It must be kept dry to be effective, and so it needs to be replaced regularly. Vacuums can be damaged by the particles.
It must be kept dry to be effective, and so it needs to be replaced regularly. Vacuums can be damaged by the particles.
Health Concerns
Diatomaceous Earth is a fine particle that is unhealthy if inhaled. Inhalation can cause minor symptoms as well as dangerous and permanent lung damage called silicosis.