Diatomaceous Earth Natural Powder

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made from the fossilised remains of diatoms, a type of algae. It is sold in food grade and filter grade; the products here are food grade. Read the label on the product you buy for what it is authorised for and how to use it.

Apply a light, barely visible dusting rather than a thick pile - a thin layer goes further and is less likely to be disturbed. The usual places are cracks and crevices, along skirting boards and floor edges, gaps around pipework under sinks and behind toilets, and behind or beneath units and appliances where you can safely reach. Keep it away from food preparation surfaces.

It needs to stay dry and undisturbed. Reapply if the powder has been vacuumed up, cleaned away, covered over or exposed to damp. In a kitchen or bathroom that may mean reapplying regularly; in an undisturbed void it can stay put for much longer.

Avoid breathing in the dust. Wear a dust mask when applying, especially in a confined space or overhead, and let the dust settle before returning to the room. Keep the container closed and store it dry.

Apply it as directed on the label and put it where children and pets will not be in direct contact with it - in voids, behind units and under appliances rather than across open floor. Follow the label for any restrictions on the areas where it can be used.

Check the label of the product you are buying to see what it is authorised for. If you need a product authorised for a particular pest, our insect control range is organised by pest, and the individual product pages state what each one is approved to be used against.