Pest control is a critical aspect of maintaining a clean, healthy, and safe environment in any facility. Whether it’s an office building, restaurant, warehouse, or hospital, pests like ants, rodents, and insects can cause significant problems if not properly managed. Facility managers and business owners often seek effective and environmentally-friendly pest control solutions that don’t disrupt operations or harm employees. One such solution that has gained popularity in recent years is diatomaceous earth (DE).
But does diatomaceous earth kill ants? In this post, we will explore how diatomaceous earth works, why it’s an effective method for managing ant infestations, and how you can use it as part of a broader pest control strategy for your facility.
What Is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance composed of the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. These microscopic organisms have exoskeletons made of silica, which, when ground into a fine powder, create a highly abrasive substance. The powder is white or off-white in color and has a powdery texture.
Diatomaceous earth is available in two types: food grade and industrial grade. Food grade DE is safe for humans and pets, making it a popular choice for pest control in homes and facilities. Industrial-grade DE, however, is primarily used for filtration and other industrial purposes and is not suitable for pest control.
How Does Diatomaceous Earth Work To Kill Ants?
To understand how diatomaceous earth works to kill ants, it’s important to grasp the concept of how the substance interacts with pests like ants.
- Desiccation (Drying Out Process): When ants come into contact with diatomaceous earth, the tiny, sharp particles of silica in the powder scratch and puncture their exoskeletons. Ants, like many insects, rely on their exoskeletons to maintain moisture levels in their bodies. The abrasive nature of diatomaceous earth causes tiny cuts that lead to dehydration. As the moisture in their bodies escapes, the ants eventually die of dehydration.
- Mechanical Action: Unlike chemical pesticides that rely on toxic substances to kill pests, diatomaceous earth kills ants through a physical process. The powder acts like a fine sandpaper, rubbing against the soft, waxy outer coating of the ants’ bodies. This process is slow but effective, especially when the ants are exposed to it over time.
- Non-Toxic and Safe for Humans: One of the key advantages of diatomaceous earth is that it is non-toxic to humans and animals, as long as food-grade DE is used. It works mechanically rather than chemically, meaning that it doesn’t harm the environment or introduce harmful chemicals into the workplace. This makes it an ideal choice for facilities that want to keep their premises pest-free without resorting to harmful pesticides.
- Long-Lasting: Diatomaceous earth continues to work over time, even after it’s applied. The fine powder doesn’t lose its effectiveness unless it becomes wet. This makes it a long-lasting solution to ant infestations, providing ongoing protection as long as the powder remains dry and undisturbed.
Types Of Ants That Diatomaceous Earth Kills
Diatomaceous earth is effective against a variety of common ant species, including:
- Argentine ants: These aggressive ants form large colonies and are known to invade homes and buildings in search of food and water.
- Carpenter ants: These ants can cause structural damage to wooden buildings, making them a serious pest in facilities with wooden construction.
- Pharaoh ants: Small but persistent, Pharaoh ants are commonly found in food service environments, making them a potential concern for restaurants and kitchens.
- Odorous house ants: These ants are often found in kitchens and pantries, attracted by food and moisture sources.
While DE is effective against many types of ants, its success largely depends on the specific species, the level of infestation, and the application method.
How To Use Diatomaceous Earth for Ant Control In Facilities
To get the best results when using diatomaceous earth to control ants in your facility, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply it effectively:
- Choose the Right Type of Diatomaceous Earth: Make sure to use food-grade diatomaceous earth, as it is safe for use in facilities where humans and animals are present. Avoid using industrial-grade DE, which is treated with chemicals and can be harmful to people and pets.
- Identify Ant Trails and Nesting Areas: Ants leave a pheromone trail that leads back to their nest. Use this trail to locate where the ants are coming from and where their nests might be located. Common nesting areas include cracks in walls, under floors, and near food sources.
- Apply the Powder: Using a dust applicator or a shaker bottle, apply a light layer of diatomaceous earth along ant trails, entry points, and in areas where ants are nesting. Be sure to target cracks, crevices, and other areas where ants may be hiding.
- Avoid Wetting the Powder: Diatomaceous earth loses its effectiveness when it gets wet, so it’s essential to keep the powder dry. If your facility has high humidity or frequent spills, make sure to reapply the DE regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
- Allow Time for the Powder to Work: It may take several days to a week for diatomaceous earth to fully eliminate the ant population. During this time, ants will come into contact with the powder, and dehydration will eventually cause them to die. Be patient and allow time for the powder to work.
- Clean Up: Once the infestation is under control, you can vacuum up the remaining diatomaceous earth. However, be careful when vacuuming, as the fine powder can clog your vacuum. Make sure to dispose of it properly.
- Monitor for Recurrence: Ants are persistent creatures, so it’s important to continue monitoring your facility for new ant activity. If necessary, reapply diatomaceous earth in areas where you notice ants or their trails.
Advantages Of Using Diatomaceous Earth For Facility Pest Control
- Non-toxic and Eco-friendly: As mentioned, food-grade diatomaceous earth is safe for humans and pets, making it a great choice for facilities that prioritize safety. Additionally, DE is a natural substance that won’t harm the environment.
- Effective against a Wide Range of Pests: Diatomaceous earth is not limited to ants. It can also be used to control other pests, including cockroaches, fleas, bedbugs, and even termites, making it a versatile tool for pest management.
- Easy to Apply: Applying DE is simple and requires no specialized training or equipment. It can be dusted along cracks and crevices or used in more targeted applications.
- Cost-Effective: Diatomaceous earth is relatively inexpensive compared to chemical pesticides, which makes it an affordable option for ongoing pest control.
Disadvantages And Considerations
- Effectiveness Depends on Dry Conditions: Diatomaceous earth is only effective as long as it remains dry. If it gets wet, it loses its ability to damage ants’ exoskeletons and will need to be reapplied.
- Takes Time: Unlike chemical insecticides that work quickly, DE requires more time to show results. Ants must come into contact with the powder, and the dehydration process can take several days.
- Can Be Messy: The fine powder can be difficult to clean up and may cause dust in the air, which can irritate the respiratory system if inhaled in large quantities. Always apply DE carefully and avoid inhalation.
Conclusion
Yes, diatomaceous earth can be an effective solution for killing ants in facility pest control. Its mechanical mode of action, non-toxicity, and environmentally-friendly nature make it an ideal option for businesses seeking a natural way to control pest populations. However, it’s essential to apply it correctly, monitor for new activity, and ensure that the powder remains dry for maximum effectiveness.
When combined with other pest control measures like sealing entry points, keeping facilities clean, and using professional pest control services, diatomaceous earth can help keep your facility free from ants and other unwanted pests.
