What kind of animals do mothballs keep away?
“Often, mothballs are used in these locations to control pests other than clothes moths,” Stone said. They include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, dogs, cats, raccoons, moles, snakes, pigeons and a variety of other animals.
Are mothballs harmful to humans?
The chemicals in mothballs are toxic to humans and pets. Some of the chemicals in mothballs can cause reversible health effects that include headaches, nausea, eye and nose irritation and coughing. Exposure to naphthalene can cause more serious effects, including hemolytic anemia.
Why do people use mothballs?
Mothballs have been used for many years in the United States as an insect and pest repellent for natural fibers, especially wool. The fumes from mothballs kill clothes moths, their eggs and larvae that eat natural fibers in indoor storage areas, such as closets, attics and basements.
Where do you put mothballs?
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.
What do you do if you touch a mothball?
If you have found mothballs, do not touch them with your bare hands: use gloves. Dispose of them in the same way that you dispose of other household hazardous waste. Ensure that you wash your hands afterwards as well.
Can you still buy mothballs?
But while mothballs are still available for purchase, you’re far less likely to find anyone who actually admits to using them to preserve their clothes or prevent an insect problem.
What is an alternative to mothballs?
Cloves, Rosemary and Thyme You’ve probably figured out by now that many spices in your kitchen pantry are effective mothball alternatives. These include cloves, rosemary and thyme. Mix these herbs together to create wonderful smelling sachet bags for your closet and storage items.
What do mothballs smell like?
What do moth balls smell like? The pyrethroid in modern mothballs is odourless. Traditional moth balls, the ones we know from our childhoods, contain one of two chemicals, napthalene or paradichlorobenzene. These are white opaque crystal-like balls and they have a tell-tale strong, unpleasant, acrid smell.
Can you touch mothballs?
What are good uses for mothballs?
Protect your clothing, and accomplish these 5 tasks with this easy-to-find item.
- Rinse woolens for storage. Of course it is a good idea to store woolens with mothballs to ward off moths.
- Kill bugs on potted plants.
- Repel mice from garage or shed.
- Keep dogs and cats away from garden.
- Keep bats at bay.