Diatomaceous earth comes in different grades, and it’s important to know which one to use for specific purposes. There are two main types:
1. Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade diatomaceous earth is the purest form of DE and contains less than 1% crystalline silica. It is safe for human and pet consumption and is used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Pest Control: Food-grade DE is commonly used as a natural insecticide for pests like ants, fleas, bed bugs, and cockroaches. It works by cutting the exoskeletons of insects, causing them to dehydrate and die.
- Health Supplement: Some people use food-grade DE as a dietary supplement, believing it has benefits such as detoxification, improved digestion, and healthier skin, hair, and nails.
- Pet Health: DE can be added to pet food to help control parasites like worms. It is also used to control fleas when dusted onto pet bedding or fur.
- Food Storage: DE is sometimes used to protect stored grains and dry foods from insects.
- Safety: Food-grade DE is considered safe for humans and pets when used as directed. However, inhaling large amounts of DE dust can cause respiratory irritation, so it’s always a good idea to wear a mask when applying it.
2. Filter-Grade or Pool-Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Filter-grade DE, also known as pool-grade DE, contains more than 60% crystalline silica. It is treated at high temperatures (calcined), making it extremely effective for use in industrial applications such as water filtration and as an abrasive. However, it is not safe for humans or animals to consume or use in pest control.
- Common Uses: Pool-grade DE is used in pool filters, water filtration systems, and sometimes as a filler in paints and coatings.
- Safety: Pool-grade DE is not safe for household use or around pets and humans due to its high crystalline silica content, which can be hazardous if inhaled. It can cause serious respiratory issues, such as silicosis, if inhaled over a long period.
Key Differences Between Food-Grade DE and Filter-Grade DE
| Feature | Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth | Filter-Grade (Pool-Grade) Diatomaceous Earth |
|---|---|---|
| Silica Content | Less than 1% crystalline silica | Over 60% crystalline silica |
| Safety for Humans and Pets | Safe for consumption and use (in moderation) | Not safe; can cause serious respiratory issues |
| Common Uses | Pest control, health supplement, pet care | Pool filtration, industrial filtration |
| Heat Treatment | Not heat-treated | Calcined (heat-treated), making it abrasive |
| Effectiveness in Pest Control | Very effective and safe | Not used for pest control |
| Availability | Readily available in stores and online | Found in pool supply stores or industrial suppliers |
When to Use Food-Grade Diatomaceous Earth
If you’re considering diatomaceous earth for use around your home, always opt for food-grade DE. Here’s when and why you’d use it:
1. Pest Control in the Home and Garden
- Food-grade DE is excellent for dealing with pests like bed bugs, ants, fleas, and cockroaches. It is safe to sprinkle in areas where pets and children may play, as long as you avoid direct inhalation of the dust.
2. Health Benefits for Humans and Pets
- Some use food-grade DE as a dietary supplement, believing it helps with detoxification, joint health, or hair and nail growth. Always consult with a healthcare professional before consuming any new supplement.
3. Pet Care
- DE can be added to pet food to help with internal parasites or dusted onto pets to help control external parasites like fleas. Just be sure to use food-grade DE and avoid inhalation.
4. Food Storage
- Food-grade DE can be mixed with grains and other dry foods to prevent insect infestation.
Safety Considerations
When using food-grade diatomaceous earth, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Wear a Mask: DE is safe for consumption but not for inhalation. When spreading DE around the house or yard, wear a mask to prevent respiratory irritation.
- Avoid Eye Contact: DE can cause dryness and irritation if it gets into the eyes.
- Store Properly: Keep DE in a dry, sealed container to prevent it from clumping and losing effectiveness.
When to Use Filter-Grade Diatomaceous Earth
Filter-grade (pool-grade) diatomaceous earth should only be used for its intended industrial purposes:
1. Pool and Water Filtration
- It’s highly effective for filtering water in swimming pools, hot tubs, and some aquarium filters.
2. Industrial Uses
- It is also used as a filler in paints, as an abrasive in polish, and in various other industrial applications.
Never use filter-grade DE for pest control, pet care, or as a dietary supplement, as it is hazardous to human and animal health.
Final Verdict: Food-Grade DE is the Safe Choice
For any use around the home, garden, or with pets, food-grade diatomaceous earth is the only safe choice. It is versatile, non-toxic, and effective for pest control and other uses. On the other hand, filter-grade DE is strictly for industrial applications and should never be used in any scenario involving humans or pets. Make sure you read the label carefully and always choose the right type of DE for your needs to ensure safety and effectiveness.