Why You Should Avoid Using Mothballs in Your Bedroom Closet—Here's Why

Moths can be a significant inconvenience. If you've ever retrieved a favorite piece of clothing only to discover unsightly holes in the fabric, you're likely all too familiar with this annoyance. In a moment of frustration, you may find yourself rushing to the store, purchasing a bag of mothballs, and placing them near your clothes, hoping for a quick solution. Unfortunately, tackling a moth infestation isn't as straightforward as it seems, and those mothballs could potentially do more harm than good. It's crucial to understand how mothballs work before deciding to use them in your home.

What Are Mothballs?

Mothballs are a type of pesticide typically composed of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. As per the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, these chemicals are solid at room temperature but gradually transform into a gas, releasing fumes into the air. These fumes are toxic to moths, their eggs, and larvae.

In stores, mothballs are generally sold in small packets containing either tablets or pellets. These packets are designed for use only in tightly sealed containers, which should hold the affected clothing or items inside, not in open spaces.

Are Mothballs Dangerous?

The chemicals in mothballs are harmful to both humans and pets. Exposure to these chemicals can occur simply by breathing in the fumes—so if you smell mothballs, you're inhaling the toxins. Some effects of mothball exposure are mild and temporary, but others can lead to more serious, long-term damage. A fact sheet from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals states, "Certain chemicals in mothballs can cause temporary health effects, including headaches, nausea, eye and nose irritation, and coughing. Naphthalene exposure can lead to severe effects like hemolytic anemia and is also a potential carcinogen. Prolonged exposure can result in liver and kidney damage."

If mothballs are so dangerous, why are they still sold? The answer lies in labeling and proper usage. Mothballs are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure products are clearly marked with warnings and usage instructions, which dictate they should only be used in sealed containers. Using mothballs in ways not specified by the label—such as outdoors, in trash bins, or for repelling other pests—violates the law.

Even if you follow the instructions on the label when using mothballs at home, it can be difficult to avoid inhaling some of the fumes. Therefore, it's best to explore alternative methods for dealing with a moth infestation.

Alternatives to Mothballs

Managing a moth problem can be a bit time-consuming and involve multiple steps, but it's achievable. A thorough cleaning, including regular vacuuming and washing your clothes and linens, is a key first step to remove eggs and larvae. (Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use, as it may contain eggs, larvae, or adult moths.)

To keep moths at bay, essential oils provide a natural and effective alternative to mothballs. Moths particularly dislike the scent of cedar oil, so spraying it in your closet or using cedar blocks can be helpful. Other scents such as lavender, rosemary, cloves, bay leaves, and thyme are also effective at repelling moths.

If you're struggling to manage a moth infestation, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Pest control experts can develop a tailored treatment plan for your home and restore your peace of mind.