Apply diatomaceous earth in dry crevices

What to Do

Using a bulb duster, apply a thin layer of food-grade diatomaceous earth in dry crevices, behind baseboards, under appliances, and in wall voids accessed through electrical outlet plates. Keep the layer barely visible — cockroaches avoid heavy deposits.

Why It Works

DE damages the cockroach's waxy exoskeleton through physical abrasion, causing death by dehydration. Because it is a mechanical killer rather than a chemical one, cockroaches cannot develop resistance. DE works continuously as long as it stays dry and in place.

Tips

• Less effective than gel baits or boric acid as a primary control tool — best used as a supplement
• Must remain completely dry to work — do not use under sinks or in damp bathrooms
• Use only food-grade DE, never pool-grade
• Wear a dust mask during application
• DE works slowly (24 hours to 2 weeks) and requires direct contact, so it complements but does not replace faster-acting methods