Bed Bug Desiccant Dust Application

ChemicalLicense Required
Effectiveness:
Cost Level
Low
Environmental Impact
Low
Resistance Risk
Low
Target Pests
3 species

Target Pests (3)

Common NameScientific NameCategory
Bed BugCimex lectulariusBed Bugs
German CockroachBlattella germanicaCockroaches
Cat FleaCtenocephalides felisFleas & Ticks

Application Method

Apply desiccant dust (diatomaceous earth, silica gel, or CimeXa) to cracks, crevices, and voids where bed bugs harbor. Desiccants kill by absorbing waxy coating on insect cuticle, causing death by dehydration. Effective against pesticide-resistant bed bugs because mode of action is physical rather than chemical - resistance cannot develop. Apply light dust coating using hand duster or bulb duster to: inside wall voids through electrical outlet openings, along baseboards, behind headboards, inside bed frame tubing, under furniture, in dresser drawers, and along carpet edges. Do NOT apply heavy piles - insects avoid heavy dust. Light application most effective. Provides very long residual control (months to years) if kept dry.

Timing

Apply as part of comprehensive bed bug IPM program. Can be used alone or combined with liquid treatments.

Frequency

Single application provides long-term residual if dust remains dry and undisturbed. Reapply only if dust disturbed or removed.

Preparation Required

Identify all harborage areas and voids to treat. Have appropriate duster and dust formulation. Ensure customer has removed clutter. Plan treatment to minimize dust exposure to occupants.

Follow-up Required

Do not vacuum or disturb dust - long residual depends on dust remaining in place. Clean up any visible dust from exposed surfaces. Monitor with interceptors and visual inspection. Dust will continue killing bed bugs for months if kept dry.

Safety Precautions

  • Wear dust mask and eye protection during application
  • Apply only light coating - heavy applications less effective
  • Do not apply to areas where people will contact dust
  • Avoid creating airborne dust in occupied spaces
  • Use only EPA-registered products labeled for bed bugs
  • Label treated areas
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.