Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural, fine powder derived from the fossilized remains of diatoms, ancient, microscopic aquatic organisms. These remains are primarily composed of amorphous silica, forming a dust that feels soft to the touch. DE is widely used as a non-chemical pest control method, and the direct answer to whether it kills crickets is yes, it is highly effective. It manages cricket populations by providing a physical, rather than chemical, means of pest elimination.
The Mechanism of Action
The insecticidal properties of diatomaceous earth stem from its unique microscopic physical structure. The powder consists of particles with extremely sharp edges, which are harmless to mammals but devastating to insects. When a cricket crawls across the dust, the sharp edges abrade and pierce the protective, waxy outer layer, or epicuticle, of its exoskeleton.
This waxy layer retains the cricket’s moisture, preventing fatal water loss. Once this barrier is breached, the highly porous DE particles absorb the lipids and oils from the exoskeleton. This dual action of abrasion and absorption leads to rapid desiccation, causing the cricket to lose internal body fluids and ultimately die from dehydration. Since DE works mechanically, insects cannot develop a resistance to it, unlike traditional chemical pesticides.
Specific Application Methods for Crickets
Effective cricket control depends on proper application, which means applying a thin, barely visible layer of dust. Crickets actively avoid thick piles of the powder, making a light dusting much more effective.
Indoor Treatment
For indoor treatment, focus on areas where crickets hide or enter the structure. These include along baseboards, under sinks, behind appliances, and inside cabinets. A bulb duster or similar fine-powder applicator should be used to puff the DE into cracks and crevices, which are common hiding spots and entry points.
Outdoor Perimeter
For outdoor application, create a protective perimeter barrier around the foundation of the home. Lightly dust the DE around door thresholds, window sills, and any visible exterior cracks. It is also beneficial to treat outdoor areas where crickets congregate, such as under rocks, debris, and near moisture sources like downspouts or air conditioning units. Since DE loses effectiveness when wet, outdoor applications must be reapplied after rain or heavy dew to maintain the barrier.
Safety and Handling Guidelines
Handling diatomaceous earth requires simple but important safety precautions, primarily due to the fine nature of the dust. When applying the powder, wear a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling the fine silica particles. Although food-grade DE is composed of amorphous silica, inhaling any fine dust can cause respiratory irritation.
It is crucial to use only “Food Grade” diatomaceous earth for pest control inside and around the home. This type contains very low levels, typically less than 2%, of crystalline silica, making it safe for use around children and pets. “Filter Grade” or “Pool Grade” DE is heat-treated and contains a high concentration of crystalline silica, making it toxic if inhaled and should only be used for industrial filtration.
Other Insects Controlled by Diatomaceous Earth
The mechanical action of diatomaceous earth is not specific to crickets, making it an effective control measure for a broad spectrum of crawling pests. Any insect possessing a chitinous exoskeleton is vulnerable to the abrasive and dehydrating effects of the powder.
DE controls common household pests like ants, cockroaches, earwigs, and silverfish. It is also highly useful for managing parasitic insects, such as fleas and ticks, by applying it to carpets and pet bedding. In garden settings, DE can control soft-bodied pests like aphids, slugs, and snails, as well as hard-shelled insects like various beetles. The key to its success against all these pests is the direct contact necessary for the sharp particles to damage the insect’s protective outer layer.