does silicon dioxide kill fleas

Can This Common Powder Actually Take Down Fleas? The Fact About Silicon Dioxide

(does silicon dioxide kill fleas)

Fleas are small, bothersome, and hard to defeat. People attempt everything to eliminate them– sprays, shampoos, also vacuuming daily. Yet what regarding something as easy as a powder? You might have become aware of silicon dioxide. It remains in dirt, sand, and also some foods. Currently folks are asking: can this daily things in fact kill fleas? Let’s dig into the scientific research.

Initially, what is silicon dioxide? It’s an all-natural compound made of silicon and oxygen. You discover it in quartz, coastline sand, and diatomaceous earth– a grainy stuff often used in yards. Under a microscope, it looks like small fragments of glass. That’s the trick. These sharp fragments stay with insects like fleas, damaging their waxy outer layer. Without that finish, fleas dry out and die. Simple, right?

Yet does it function quick? Not exactly. Silicon dioxide isn’t a chemical poison. It does not zap fleas on call. Rather, it’s a slow-moving, physical awesome. Fleas walk through the powder, obtain cut up, and lose dampness over hours or days. This makes it various from sprays that mess with insect nerves or hormonal agents. For pet dog owners who dislike rough chemicals, that’s an and also.

Right here’s the catch. Not all silicon dioxide items coincide. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is more secure for family pets and individuals. Pool-grade variations? Avoid those– they’re treated with chemicals. Also, the powder requires to remain dry. Wetness globs it up, making it pointless. If you spray it on a wet day or a wet carpeting, do not expect wonders.

Just how do you use it? Start by cleaning your space. Vacuum cleaner rugs, clean family pet bed linen, and clean floors. Then dust silicon dioxide in flea hotspots: under furnishings, along baseboards, and around pet resting locations. Put on a mask– you do not want to breathe in the great dirt. Allow it sit for a day or more prior to vacuuming. Repeat once a week until fleas are gone.

Is it safe for pets? Mainly yes. Silicon dioxide isn’t harmful, yet it can aggravate lungs if inhaled. Keep pet dogs away while applying the powder. Once it settles, it’s usually safe. Still, check with your veterinarian first, particularly for pet dogs with breathing concerns.

What concerning various other pests? Good news. Silicon dioxide works on ants, insects, and roaches too. It’s a multi-purpose pest boxer. Simply bear in mind, it’s not instant. Patience is essential.

Some individuals mix silicon dioxide with other treatments. A couple of drops of essential oils like peppermint or lavender may improve the effect. But oils alone won’t eliminate fleas. Stay with the powder as your major weapon.

Does scientific research back this up? Researches show diatomaceous earth can eliminate fleas, however success relies on proper usage. Wrong application? Weak results. Comply with the steps, and you’ll likely see fewer fleas jumping around.

Still not sure? Attempt a small examination area first. Watch for modifications over a week. If fleas disappear, wonderful. Otherwise, you might need more powerful approaches. However, for several, silicon dioxide is an economical, eco-friendly choice worth a shot.

One last pointer. Fleas lay eggs all over. Also if you kill the adults, eggs hatch in weeks. Maintain making use of silicon dioxide on a regular basis to damage the cycle. Uniformity defeats an one-time assault.

(does silicon dioxide kill fleas)

So following time fleas attack, get that powder. It’s not magic, yet it’s a solid tool in the pest-control tool kit. Simply don’t expect a flea apocalypse over night. Sluggish and consistent wins the race.