Diatomaceous Earth - insecticide - safe?

[Tara81]

So I am going insane over carpet beetles. I've read Ditaomaceous earth is a good way to get rid of them. But is it safe to use and how do you get it off the carpets? I've read if you attempt to vaccum it , it will go in the air because its a fine dust instead of being sucked up properly.. Then is it safe to inhale for me or my budgies and cockatiel? Anyone have any experience with this?

 

[Mizzely]

Inhaling is bad news for you or your birds

What Are the Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth?

Diatomaceous earth is a type of sand made from fossilized algae. It is a popular dietary supplement that is claimed to have many health benefits.

www.healthline.com

 

[Tara81]

got any ideas how to be rid of carpet beetles without harming my parrots?

 

[Mizzely]

I don't have any experience but this suggests starting with vacuuming and steam cleaning often

7 Tips on Carpet Beetle Removal | The Bug Man

If you’ve confirmed those multi-colored, pinhead-sized beetles moving slowly are carpet beetles, it’s time to take action immediately. Here's how.

bugman9.com

 

[cassiesdad]

Inhaling is bad news for you or your birds

...we use the stuff...but only outside. It's another "barrier" to keep ants from coming in....

 

[Laurul Feather Cat]

Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter. HEPA takes just about everything out of the air; pollen, dust, etc. Once you use the filter you wave to throw the fabric part of the filter away for DE. Otherwise you risk it getting overloaded with DE and blown into your room. I have asthma and use a HEPA filter vacuum every time I vacuum. I also use DE for flea, ant and any other type of bug control around the house. NO Pesticides in DE. It kills bugs by cutting into the hard carapace around the outside of the bug and allowing bacteria to get into the bug and kill it.