Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural product with numerous benefits across diverse industries. While it’s popular in agriculture for its ability to absorb moisture and enhance soil, there are many other innovative uses that aren’t as widely known. Learn more about how DE properties benefit companies and consumers of cleaning products, cosmetics, filtration systems, and more.

Benefits of Diatomaceous Earth

Derived from the fossilized remains of diatoms—single-celled aquatic organisms—DE has unique, beneficial properties:

• All natural
• Abrasive
• Absorptive
• Anti-caking
• Porous
• Low density
• Insulating

These characteristics make it an ideal material for a wide variety of industrial, commercial, and consumer uses, including:

• Cleaning
• Polishing
• Filtration
• Storage
• Personal care
• Crafts

Let’s take a deeper dive into some of these categories to see how DE is a safe and effective solution for more than just your garden.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning and Deodorizing

With its mildly abrasive and absorptive qualities, DE has been used to trap spills and odors, making it an all natural solution for cleaning and deodorizing areas around the home and office. Here are a few places where you’ll see DE being used:

• Cat litter
• Compost piles
• Shoe deodorizer
• Carpet cleaner
• Refrigerator freshener
• Oil and grease cleaner
• Furniture polish

The type of DE you use matters. There are different grades and textures available. Any time you’re using a product around people or pets, you want to make sure it’s safe. Food-grade DE is just as effective even though it’s non-toxic.

Diatomaceous Earth Personal Care Uses

Many consumers look for more natural products, especially if they’re ingested or applied to skin. Food-grade DE is often used as a alternative formula in many cosmetic and craft products, including the following:

• Gentle skin exfoliant
• Natural detoxifying agent
• Toothpaste
• Glitter
• Preserving cut flowers

If it’s your first time using DE, or any alternative product, always test a small area first to ensure desired results without adverse reactions.

Industrial Uses for Diatomaceous Earth

Not every product has both delicate and abrasive qualities like DE. Here’s how tough DE can be.

• Polish metal, from tarnished silverware and jewelry to car parts
• Filters for swimming pools and commercial beverage facilities
• Traction on slick surfaces

Since DE is naturally biodegradable, any of these uses won’t alter the surface or product being treated like a chemical solution.

Using DE Safely

Even though diatomaceous earth is generally safe, there are still some things to keep in mind depending on where and how it’s used.

• Choose food-grade DE for applications involving food, pets, or personal care.
• Wear a mask to help avoid inhaling DE dust, which can irritate the respiratory system.
• Store DE in a dry, sealed container to maintain effectiveness.
• Source DE from a reputable retailer.

For a material with such unique and versatile properties, it’s no wonder that industrial companies, commercial manufacturers, and consumers trust DE for a wide range of applications. Dicalite supplies diatomaceous earth for any need, including cleaning, filtration, and horticulture. Contact us to learn how we can help your processes with the right grade of DE and request a sample to see if it’s the right solution for you.