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Is pool diatomaceous earth safe for humans?
Pool Grade diatomaceous earth is calcined, meaning it has been heat-treated and activated for use in filters. Because crystalline silica is dangerous and can be harmful to both human and animal health, Pool/Filter Grade diatomaceous earth should only ever be used for filtration.
Is diatomaceous earth for pools food grade?
No, this is not food grade DE. This is for filtration use. Food grade diatomaceous earth contains < 2% crystalline silica, whereas swimming pool diatomaceous earth is chemically altered to contain very high quantities of crystalline silica to improve its filtration properties.
Can I use pool diatomaceous earth on my garden?
Pool Grade DE Pool grade Diatomaceous Earth is treated with especially high heat. Because the heating process alters the Diatomaceous Earth significantly, it is not effective for use in the home, yard, or garden. Pool grade Diatomaceous Earth is primarily used to filter impurities, particularly in water.
What are the dangers of diatomaceous earth?
Health Risks If diatomaceous earth is inhaled, it may irritate the nasal passages. If a large amount is inhaled, it may cause coughing and/or shortness of breath. Diatomaceous earth can also cause skin irritation and dryness and eye irritation.
Why do you put diatomaceous earth in a pool?
Commonly known as D.E., diatomaceous earth for pools is derived from tiny fossilized exoskeletons of algae-like water plants called diatoms. DE powder provides better filtration results for pools compared to sand filters and cartridge filter systems, which is why folks use them.
Is it safe to use diatomaceous earth on humans?
To start with, only use food grade DE for flea control. There is pool grade DE that is used for charcoal filters and swimming pools but it is not safe for consumption by humans or animals. You should use kitchen or garden gloves while handling it as DE can dry your skin out very quickly. (Not dangerous, just very irritating.)
Is there a difference between diatomaceous earth and swimming pool grade?
If they ingest the DE it will shred their insides. Based on my unscientific research, it appears that both swimming pool grade and natural diatomaceous earth come from the same fossil sources but are processed differently. The natural grades are mined, dried, ground, sled and bagged.
Which is better diatomaceous earth or cartridge filtration?
If you are a pool owner it is likely that you have heard of diatomaceous earth. Preferred over sand and cartridge filtration systems by some pool owners, diatomaceous earth (DE) is an effective filtration solution for pools as it helps weed out smaller contaminants and debris and is a lot more compact than the other two filters.
Is it safe for kittens to eat diatomaceous earth?
Yes, for the most part. Kittens that are still nursing or weigh less than two pounds should probably not be exposed to DE. A cat that weighs between two and six and a half pounds can safely eat a half teaspoon of food grade DE with every meal.