Q&A for How to Apply Diatomaceous Earth to Carpet

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Do I need to rub the DE into the carpet when applying?

Community Answer

Yes.

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Question

After the initial application of diatomaceous earth, why do I need to apply another small amount?

Community Answer

The eggs won't be affected by the first round. So you want to retreat to kill any that might have been missed.

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Question

Should I shampoo my carpets first?

Community Answer

If you do shampoo it first, you should have the carpet completely dry before applying the Earth.

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Question

Can my dogs go on the carpet after I put it down?

Community Answer

Yes. Your dogs or any larger mammalian pets should be fine on the carpet after it sinks in.

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Question

Can my cats and I walk on the carpet after I sprinkle diatomaceous earth over it?

Community Answer

You can walk over it, but give it time to sink in to the carpet.

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Question

Will fleas fall off my cat and die on the diatomaceous earth dust that's still in the carpet?

Community Answer

Unlikely. They have to come into contact with it before it has any effect. If they're on your cat they won't just fall off onto it for no reason.

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Question

Can I put diatomaceous earth between my carpet and rug pad instead of on top of the carpet?

Community Answer

Yes, in theory, but it will only kill fleas that physically touch it, so unless the bugs are travelling between your carpet and rug pad, then it won't get them.

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Question

Will applying diatomaceous earth to my flea infested carpet kill them?

Community Answer

It should within the described time, yes. Just give it time to work and apply as directed.

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Question

Can I put diatomaceous earth on a mattress and box spring?

Community Answer

Yes, just make sure you're using food grade, most of them are labelled as such.

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Question

Can I put food-grade diatomaceous earth directly on my kitten?

Community Answer

No, that will irritate your kitten's digestive system when it grooms. Your kitten could also damage its lungs by inhaling it. Only put diatomaceous earth on inanimate objects.

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Question

How do I remove some diatomaceous earth if I used too much in my carpet?

Community Answer

Shop vac only! It will ruin the motor of regular vacuums.

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Question

Is this mixture something that could be used on carpets, if someone was trying to remove bed bugs?

Community Answer

Yes, diatomaceous earth is great for ants, spiders, bed bugs, silverfish, beetles and most arthropods and can be used on carpet. However, avoid putting on carpet where pets, babies and children play, move around on or lie down on. Vacuum up completely when the bed bugs are gone.

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