How to Kill Cockroaches With Diatomaceous Earth

Kill roaches naturally and safely with diatomaceous earth.

Few things inspire more disgust in people than seeing a cockroach scuttle across the floor or wall, but some would rather avoid using the toxic chemicals in most insecticides in their home. Diatomaceous earth is a natural and effective way to kill roaches and other unwanted insects. It is made up of the silica skeletons of ancient single-celled animals called diatoms and is mined out of the ground. Diatomaceous earth kills insects by damaging the waxy coating that covers their bodies, causing them to dehydrate and die.

Things You'll Need

• Face mask

Instructions

1. Repair any leaks or dampness around your home or outside the house. Clean the area to be applied, and allow it to dry because diatomaceous earth will not work in wet areas.

2. Put on your face mask before applying diatomaceous earth because it can be harmful to breathe the airborne dust.

3. Spread diatomaceous earth in places where cockroaches gather, such as in cracks and crevices, underneath cabinets and appliances and in garbage cans.

4. Apply directly to insects you see. Cockroaches will die within 48 hours of exposure.

Tips & Warnings

• Diatomaceous earth also works to control other insect pests, such as ants, fleas and earwigs. It also works on spiders.

References

• University of Nebraska: Least Toxic Cockroach Control
• Washington State University: Pesticidal Dusts