Mothballs are one of the most popular products to keep pest insects and moths at bay in our homes.
These small white spheres with a strong characteristic odor have been used for decades as an effective method to protect our clothes, blankets and other objects from the harmful effects of these small intruders.
But what exactly is mothballs, and how does it work to keep pests away? Naphthalene is an organic chemical compound that is used in the manufacture of a wide variety of products, including mothballs.
Its distinctive scent, though often considered unpleasant, is actually what makes it such an effective repellent for insects and moths. This strong odor is toxic to many types of pests, making them uncomfortable and even forcing them to move away from the area.
Although mothballs have proven to be very useful in combating insect and moth pests, there are also some risks associated with their use. For example, if inhaled in large amounts, mothballs can be toxic to humans and animals. In addition, they can also cause damage to clothing and other objects if placed directly on them.
In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about mothballs, from their chemical makeup to their effectiveness in getting rid of pests.
We’ll also discuss the risks and precautions you should be aware of when using these products, as well as some safer and more eco-friendly alternatives to keep insects and moths out of your home. If you are looking for an effective way to protect your clothes and valuables, do not miss this article on mothballs.
Naphthalene: a derivative of naphthalene
Is mothballs, that little white ball our grandmothers used to put in the laundry room and attic to keep moths away, really the ally we think they are?
Between the proven properties and the revealed dangers, what are the secrets of the mothball?
Naphthalene comes in the form of a solid white ball. Its main use is to repel moths, but also to perfume clothes.
This crystallized form of naphthalene hydrocarbon was discovered in 1920.
Naphthalene has been used in particular for the creation of perfume, antibiotics, but also for pyrotechnic effects, as well as napalm (when combined with palmitic acid).
Naphthalene belongs to PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Highly toxic, it is a chemical pesticide considered dangerous to health and whose sale has been prohibited in several countries since 2008, which is why naphthalene is no longer available in stores today.
The risks of naphthalene
Because it consists of naphthalene that disperses in the air, naphthalene is hazardous to the respiratory tract.
Nausea, migraines, and dizziness are some of the health problems associated with the use of naphthalene. It causes tachycardia and has been shown to be carcinogenic.
In fact, naphthalene is recognized as a carcinogenic substance by the European Union and by the CIIC (International Center for Research on Cancer).
Because it causes destruction of red blood cells upon simple inhalation, mothballs should not be ingested.
Using it in a ventilated room can limit the risks, but it does not eliminate them.
Naphthalene: alternatives
Not available on the market due to its sale ban, naphthalene is no longer available today. To replenish it in your cupboards, prefer the essential oil.
Its strong smell will perfume your clothes and will displease insects.
Thyme, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oils may be suitable. Soak porous stones or pieces of cloth in your chosen essential oil before placing them in the enclosed space of the cabinet.
Spraying neem essential oil helps keep insects away, but it also kills them, as this essence is a natural insecticide.
It will be renewed once a month, as soon as the smell becomes too weak.
20 uses of mothballs use
Mothballs are a useful tool to repel insects and moths, but their uses go beyond simply protecting our clothes and objects from these pests. Here are 20 additional uses for mothballs:
Mouse repellent: Mothballs are also effective at repelling mice by placing some in areas where these rodents may enter the home.Prevent pets from approaching certain areas: mothballs can also be used to keep pets away from certain areas of the home or yard.Prevent moisture in cabinets: Mothballs can also help prevent moisture in closets, keeping clothes and other items from getting damaged.Protect important documents: mothballs can also be used to protect important documents from moisture and pests.Avoid bad odors in the refrigerator: Placing a mothball in the refrigerator can help prevent bad odors.Fly repellent: Mothballs can also be used to repel flies by placing them in areas where these pests are found.Prevent tool rust: Mothballs can also be used to prevent rust on tools and other metal objects.Repel spiders: Mothballs can also be used to repel spiders by placing them in areas where these pests are found.Protect plants: mothballs can also be used to protect plants from insects and pests.Prevent mold formation: lmothballs can also be used to prevent mold growth in damp areas.Repel cockroaches: Mothballs can also be used to repel cockroaches by placing them in areas where these pests are found.Prevent shoes from smelling: Putting a mothball in your shoes can help prevent them from smelling bad.Keep books in good condition: mothballs can also be used to keep books in good condition, protecting them from pests.Protect the interior of the car: Placing some mothballs inside the car can help keep it pest-free.Prevent the formation of fungus in the bathroom: mothballs can also be used to prevent mildew in the bathroom.Keep pillows cool: Placing a mothball in your pillowcase can help keep it fresh and free of unpleasant odors.Prevent the formation of rust in the washing machine: Placing some mothballs in the washer can help prevent rust from forming on metal parts of the washer, such as screws and hinges.Protect leather objects: Mothballs can also be used to protect leather items, such as shoes, bags, and belts, from pests.Ant repellent: Mothballs can also be used to repel ants by placing them in areas where these pests are found.Prevent the formation of mold on clothes: Placing a few mothballs in the closet along with your clothes can help prevent mold from growing on your clothes, especially in humid environments.
Mothballs are a versatile tool that can be used to protect not only our clothes and objects from pests, but also to repel other types of insects and prevent problems related to moisture and mold.
It’s important to remember that while mothballs are effective, they can also be toxic to humans and pets, so use them carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
10 risks of using mothballs
Although mothballs are a useful tool to protect clothing and objects from pests, their use can also present certain health and environmental risks. Here are 10 risks associated with the use of mothballs:
Toxicity: Mothballs are toxic to humans and pets. The active ingredient, naphthalene, is a chemical compound that can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as dizziness, nausea, and headaches.Inhalation: Inhaling the naphthalene vapors from mothballs can cause breathing problems, especially in people with asthma or lung diseases.Poisoning: Accidentally ingesting mothballs can be dangerous, especially for children and pets. Naphthalene can be toxic if ingested in large amounts.Damage to clothing: Mothballs can stain or discolor clothing if placed directly on it. They can also damage certain types of fabrics, such as silk and wool.Indoor air pollution: The use of mothballs can contribute to indoor air pollution, especially in closed, poorly ventilated spaces.Damage to the environment: Improper disposal of mothballs can pollute the environment. Naphthalene can persist in air and soil for a long time and can be toxic to wildlife and aquatic organisms.Fire danger: Mothballs are flammable and can cause a fire hazard if exposed to sources of heat or flame.Interaction with other chemicals: Mothballs can interact with other chemicals in the home, such as chlorine and ammonia, creating toxic gases.Allergy risk: Some people may be allergic to naphthalene and experience symptoms such as rashes, itching, and nasal congestion.Inefficiency: Although mothballs are effective at repelling some pests, they are not effective against all species and may lose their effectiveness over time.
Although mothballs are a useful tool for repelling pests, it is important to consider the risks associated with their use and take precautions to minimize any negative effects.
It is advisable to read the manufacturer’s instructions, use them responsibly and consider safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives.
What if my child ate the mothballs?
If your child has eaten a mothball, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Naphthalene, the active ingredient in mothballs, is toxic if ingested and can cause a number of negative health effects.
Symptoms of naphthalene poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, drowsiness, confusion, and seizures. In severe cases, ingesting large amounts of naphthalene can cause kidney damage, liver failure, anemia, and other serious health problems.
If your child has ingested a mothball, it is important not to induce vomiting and not give any…