What Are Moth Balls Good For?
- Remove moths completely This is the main benefit that you can get from this moth ball. This item can be used to remove moths completely. ...
- Prevent any other insects quickly When people want to know about what are moth balls good for, they should read this benefit. ...
- Prevent any damages on your clothes
What are the dangers of moth balls?
- Do not flush down the drain
- Do not throw in with regular trash
- Take naphthalene balls at a hazardous-waste collection site
Are moth balls bad for You?
People exposed to mothballs for an extended time can suffer more serious liver and kidney damage. Mothballs are also dangerous because they can be mistaken for candy or food and eaten by children or pets. One mothball can cause serious harm if eaten by a child. Placing them in open containers, as many web sites recommend, is asking for trouble.
What you should know about mothballs?
Learn more:
- Chemical Properties and Environmental Fate of Mothballs
- Mothballs - Regulation, Proper Uses and Alternatives
- Naphthalene Information
- Paradichlorobenzene Information
Do moth balls hurt animals?
Young children explore their surroundings by putting things in their mouths. Animals might think moth balls are food. Ingesting even a small amount of the toxic chemicals in mothballs can cause serious harm that requires immediate medical or veterinary attention.
What will mothballs keep away?
Mothballs sometimes are used illegally to repel pests not listed on labels. Some of these “off-label pests” include: squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, and snakes, among others animals. Use mothballs pesticide products to control the pests listed on the label only!
Can you sleep in a room with mothballs?
' and the answer to this question is yes, potentially. According to the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC), the chemicals use in mothballs can be toxic to humans and pets and as people are exposed to these chemicals that are released as toxic fumes in the air space of the home.
Where should I put moth balls?
Mothballs must be used in an airtight space, such as a garment bag or well- sealed container. Never place mothballs in an open closet or plastic garbage bag. Once vapors enter the home, their odor can persist for a long time.
Do moth balls keep spiders away?
There is an easy solution to repel spiders in areas of the home where you don't want them, and that solution is: moth balls! Moth balls not only kill moths, but they can ward off other pests, such as spiders.
Can smelling mothballs hurt you?
The chemicals in mothballs are toxic to humans and pets. People are exposed to the chemicals in mothballs by inhaling the fumes. If you smell mothballs, you are being exposed to these chemicals. Children or pets sometimes mistake mothballs for food or candy and eat them, which can cause serious effects.
Can smelling mothballs make you sick?
Moth balls contain a toxic chemical, either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Both become a gas when exposed to air and cause that pungent moth ball smell. These gases are irritating to the eyes and lungs and may cause headache, dizziness and nausea.
What happens to mothballs left in the open?
Mothballs slowly disappear as they turn into gas and mix with the surrounding air. The time it takes a mothball to vaporize depends on many factors, including how many mothballs are present, the amount of air-flow around the mothballs, and the temperature.
How quickly do mothballs work?
How long do mothballs take to work? Mothballs get to work as soon as you place them in the area you wish to protect, and will work best in an enclosed area where the moths are trapped with the fumes. They can protect your clothing from moths and larvae for up to 3 months.
How long does mothball smell last?
about 3-6 monthsMothball odor is a terrible smell to have clinging to your clothing. And we have some shocking news for you: a single mothball takes about 3-6 months to dissipate completely. If you put the mothball under fabric or someplace where there is no air circulation, it takes about 12 months to dissipate!
Do snakes hate mothballs?
Use of Snake Repellents Mothballs are commonly thought to repel snakes, but they are not intended to be used this way and have little effect on snakes.
Are dogs attracted to mothballs?
The ingestion of mothballs, which come as flakes, tablets, crystals, bars, and balls, can be appealing to dogs due to the odor that they emit and the curious nature of our pets.
Are mothballs illegal?
Mothballs are insecticides that are controlled by the Environmental Protection Agency. This makes it illegal to use them for any purpose or by any method that isn't specified on the label. Mothballs are labeled only for use in closed containers for the control of clothes moths.
What Are Mothballs?
Mothballs have been utilized for many years to keep moths and other fiber-eating pests away from clothing. Older mothballs used a chemical known as naphthalene, which was first registered in the US as a pesticide in 1948. Even today, there are some mothball products that incorporate naphthalene, but more contain para-dichlorobenzene.
How Are Mothballs Meant to be Used?
The main purpose of chemical based mothballs is to kill adult clothes moths, their eggs, and the larvae that cause damage to your clothing. Mothballs are a pretty inexpensive method in comparison with professional pest control services, but using them incorrectly could mean expense - without a solution to your moth problem.
Typical Step by Step Chemical Mothball Instructions
Ok, so you get the big picture about using chemical based mothballs, but specifically what are the steps for using them?
How Do Mothballs Work?
In the case of chemical mothballs, they are designed to sublimate—turn to gas. During sublimation, the toxic fumes released can kill flying moths and moth larvae. The adult flying moths know better than to breathe in the fumes, so they’ll also steer clear of wherever the chemical mothballs are placed.
Are Mothballs Pesticides?
Yes, chemical based mothballs available in the USA are pesticides. Because of that, they are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US. They contain chemicals like para-dichlorobenzene and naphthalene, both of which are considered pesticides. When adult moths and other pests are exposed to mothball fumes, they will die.
Can Mothballs Be Used as Repellents?
It’s a common belief that mothballs can be used both around the house and even outdoors to repel all sorts of pests. You might see articles online talking about alternative uses for mothballs, such as crushing them up and putting them in flower pots to ward off pests.
Mothballs and Their Uses
So, what are mothballs used for? Chemical mothballs can often be recommended off-label purposes, such as repelling snakes, squirrels, bats, and other animals, but these recommendations are typically unfounded and as you’ll have read, even illegal! Just in case you hadn’t picked up on it, these chemicals in chemical based mothballs are extremely hazardous..
What are mothballs made of?
However, don’t miss reading the word of caution. Mothballs are balls of chemical pesticides, mostly made up of naphthalene, which are used mostly for safe storage of off-season clothes. They give out a characteristic pungent smell. Since naphthalene in highly flammable, nowadays, para-dichlorobenzene is used instead.
How to store mothballs?
It is better to store the mothballs in a netted bag or a small box, in such cases. Before using clothes that were mothballed, make sure that you wash them properly. True, they help get rid of bad smells. However, that’s no reason why you should use them as air fresheners.
How to get rid of fleas in vacuum bag?
While vacuuming, add some naphthalene balls in the vacuum bag. This kills fleas or insects that are sucked in. The smell given out by a dead animal, is enough to make anyone feel sick. Being good deodorizers, the smell of mothballs will balance the rotten smell coming from outside.
Is chewing mothballs dangerous?
Sniffing or chewing of mothballs, is extremely dangerous. This tells us that their use is best avoided. There are many other options for such deodorizers; and yet, the use of mothballs is still rampant.
Is mothball naphthalene carcinogenic?
Naphthalene or para-dichlorobenzene are active ingredients of mothballs. Both are anticipated to be carcinogenic to humans, according to the Department of Health and Humans Services (DHHS) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
What Are Mothballs Used For?
Whenever there is a moth problem, many proud homeowners start reaching for the camphor-scented mothball. Most people know the smell, even if they’ve never seen a mothball in action.
What Are Mothballs?
Mothballs have been utilised for many years to keep moths and other fibre-eating pests away from clothing. Older mothballs used a chemical known as naphthalene, which was first registered in the US as a pesticide in 1948. Even today, there are some mothball products that incorporate naphthalene, but more contain para-dichlorobenzene.
How Are Mothballs Meant to be Used?
The main purpose of chemical based mothballs is to kill adult clothes moths, their eggs, and the larvae that cause damage to your clothing. Mothballs are a pretty inexpensive method in comparison with professional pest control services, but using them incorrectly could mean expense - without a solution to your moth problem.
Typical Step by Step Chemical Mothball Instructions
Ok, so you get the big picture about using chemical based mothballs, but specifically what are the steps for using them?
How Do Mothballs Work?
In the case of chemical mothballs, they are designed to sublimate—turn to gas. During sublimation, the toxic fumes released can kill flying moths and moth larvae. The adult flying moths know better than to breathe in the fumes, so they’ll also steer clear of wherever the chemical mothballs are placed.
Are Mothballs Pesticides?
Yes, chemical based mothballs available in the USA are pesticides. Because of that, they are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US. They contain chemicals like para-dichlorobenzene and naphthalene, both of which are considered pesticides. When adult moths and other pests are exposed to mothball fumes, they will die.
Can Mothballs Be Used as Repellents?
It’s a common belief that mothballs can be used both around the house and even outdoors to repel all sorts of pests. You might see articles online talking about alternative uses for mothballs, such as crushing them up and putting them in flower pots to ward off pests.
What is a mothball?
Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticide and deodorant, sometimes used when storing clothing and other articles susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae (especially clothes moths like Tineola bisselliella ).
What does "mothball" mean?
As a verb, "mothball" has a metaphorical usage, meaning "to stop work on an idea, plan, or job, but leaving it in such a way that work can continue in the future".
What is the composition of mothballs?
Composition. Older mothballs consisted primarily of naphthalene, but due to naphthalene's flammability, many modern mothball formulations instead use 1,4-dichlorobenzene. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability.
How are mothballs stored?
Mothballs are stored in air-tight bags made of a non-reactive plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene (other plastics may be degraded or softened). The clothing to be protected should be sealed within airtight containers; otherwise the vapors will tend to escape into the surrounding environment.
Can mothballs be used as rodent repellent?
Although occasionally used as snake repellent, mothball use as a rodent, squirrel, or bat repellent is illegal in many areas, and tends to cause more annoyance and hazard to humans than to the target pest. However, mothballs continue to be advertised as squirrel repellent and are an ingredient in some commercial vermin and snake repellent products.
Is camphor a moth repellent?
Camphor is also used as a moth repellent, particularly in China. Unlike naphthalene and dichlorobenzene, camphor has medicinal applications and is not regarded as a carcinogen, though it is toxic in large doses. Red cedar wood and oil is also used as an alternative moth repellent.
Can mothballs cause cancer?
In addition to their cancer risks, mothballs are known to cause liver and kidney damage. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a neurotoxin. It has been abused as an inhalant, causing a variety of neurotoxic effects. Mothballs containing naphthalene have been banned within the EU since 2008.
How to keep mice out of potting shed?
Place a few mothballs around the garage, and the mice will seek other quarters. To keep mice out of our potting shed, put the mothballs around the base of wrapped or covered plants.
Do you take a plant out of a bug bag?
When you take the plant out of the bag, your plant will be bug-free. It will also keep moths away for a while. Not all bugs are pests! Here’s how to roll out the welcome mat for insects that are actually good for your garden. 2 / 5. Photo: Shutterstock.
Can you wash woolen sweaters with moth balls?
Use mothballs to rinse woolens for storage. Of course it is a good idea to store woolens with mothballs to ward off moths. To give your favourite sweaters even more protection, dissolve a few mothballs in the final rinse when you wash them before storage.
What are moth balls?
Learn more... Mothballs are a potent way of dealing with clothes moths. Many people forget that mothballs are made of dangerous pesticides and don't take safety precautions when using them. Never use these products out in the open.
How to use mothballs?
To use mothballs, start by packing the clothes that you want to protect into an airtight container. Then, lay mothballs around the clothes in the container, using the right number of mothballs according to the instructions on the package. Next, seal the container and store it in a closet or under your bed.
How to get rid of mothball smell in clothes?
The clothing will have a strong mothball smell, so clean it first. Soak the items in equal parts water and vinegar or add a cup (240 mL) of vinegar to the wash cycle. Place the water and vinegar combination in a spray bottle for use on clothing that can't be put in a washer and dryer.
How to store clothing from moths?
Store clothing in airtight containers. Moths cannot get into plastic boxes or bags that are sealed, no matter how stained the clothing. Storing clean clothing in these containers is a great way to protect clothing without depending on toxic mothballs. You may see some people swear by cedar scents or chests.
How to keep moths out of clothes?
Instead, place your clothing with the mothballs in a sealed container. Prevent moths by wearing, washing, and drying your clothing regularly. Keep your home and clothing free of lint and animal-based stains such as those from food, perfume, or sweat. Steps.
What do moths eat?
Moths eat animal products such as wool, leather, and felt. They will chew through synthetic fibers to get to animal stains like sweat. Place the mothballs inside the container. Read the directions on the box to find out how much of the product you need.
How to get rid of moths in your house?
1. Vacuum your entire home. You can't use mothballs in the open, so you'll have to keep your home clear of moth food sources. Vacuum out your drawers, closets, and furniture. Get all areas you normally don't disturb, including under furniture. Use the vacuum to get all lint and hair.
What are mothballs made of?
Mothballs use one of two active ingredients: naphthalene and paradichlorobenzine. These have several detrimental qualities including a high level of flammability. As a result, they should never be stored near flame or placed in a storage area that is prone to heat buildup.
Why do you bury mothballs?
You can bury mothballs to help deter larger pests such as chipmunks and prarie dogs from helping themselves to your garden. Dropping some into a burrow entrance can also be used to temporarily stop large critters from using that entrance for about a month.
How to get rid of mothball odor?
Thankfully, the smell of mothballs can cancel out that rotting stench. To make an odor control box that’s relatively safe, get a small cardboard box and put some balls in it. Then get a netted bag or large freezer bag (and poke some tiny holes in it) to stick the box in. Seal the bag and place it near the strongest point of the odor.
Is mothball a pesticide?
Environmental Risks. Mothballs are classified as pesticides and are an effective insecticide. Over time, they dissolve into a toxic gas. Using them outdoors will not only harm beneficial critters, but can easily contaminate plants, soil, and groundwater.
Do moth balls smell sweet?
Unfortunately, this means they’re also quite unpleasant to people. Initial exposure may smell sweet, but longer exposure will make the smell nauseating. Unfortunately, the stench will often outlast the balls themselves, especially on clothing. There are a few good methods to get rid of the mothball smell.
Can mothballs be used for life hacks?
However, we will only discuss some of the safest methods here , as their toxic nature is rarely considered when suggesting “life hacks”.
Do moth balls need to be washed?
Clothing stored in mothballs should always be washed prior to use to get rid of any residue. Additionally, it’s best to keep the balls in a netted bag or a box instead of placing directly on your clothing to help protect your family from accidental exposure.
Overview
Composition
- Being an inexpensive method of pest control, moth balls have been used by generations for various household purposes. If you know how and when to use them around the house, then you can put them to good use. 1. During the summers when you do not need the warm woolens, or during the winters when you do not need the light cotton clothes, you have to ...
Uses
Health risks
Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticide and deodorant, sometimes used when storing clothing and other materials susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae (especially clothes moths like Tineola bisselliella).
Alternatives
Older mothballs consisted primarily of naphthalene, but due to naphthalene's flammability, many modern mothball formulations instead use 1,4-dichlorobenzene. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability. The latter chemical is also variously labeled as para-dichlorobenzene, p-dichlorobenzene, pDCB, or PDB, making it harder to identify unless all these acronyms are know…
In popular culture
Mothballs are stored in air-tight bags made of a non-reactive plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene (other plastics may be degraded or softened). The clothing to be protected should be sealed within airtight containers; otherwise the vapors will tend to escape into the surrounding environment. Manufacturer's instructions regularly warn against using mothballs for any purpose other than those specified by the packaging, as such uses are not only harmful and noxious, the…
See also
The US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that 1,4-dichlorobenzene "may reasonably be anticipated to be a carcinogen". This has been indicated by animal studies, although a full-scale human study has not been done. The National Toxicology Program (NTP), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the state of California consider 1,4-dichlorobenzene a carcinogen.
External links
As discussed in more detail at Tineola bisselliella, alternatives to mothballs to control clothes moths include dry cleaning, freezing, thorough vacuuming, and washing in hot water. Camphor is also used as a moth repellent, particularly in China. Unlike naphthalene and dichlorobenzene, camphor has medicinal applications and is not regarded as a carcinogen, though it is toxic in large doses. Red cedar wood and oil is also used as an alternative moth repellent.