Mothballs are small, solid pesticide balls used to protect stored clothing and other materials from fabric-eating pests like moths and their larvae. They release a chemical vapor that repels or kills these insects. While effective for pest control, understanding their potential toxicity is important.
Understanding Mothball Ingredients
Mothballs contain volatile chemicals that transform from a solid into a gas through sublimation. The two main chemicals are naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene. These gaseous forms are responsible for their pesticidal action, creating an environment toxic to moths and their larvae. The strong, distinct odor indicates the presence of these active ingredients.
How Mothballs Affect the Body
The chemicals in mothballs can enter the human body through various routes, including inhaling their fumes, accidental ingestion, or direct skin contact. Once absorbed, these compounds can interfere with normal bodily functions. Naphthalene is known for its ability to damage red blood cells, a condition called hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break apart and cannot effectively carry oxygen. This damage can also lead to the formation of methemoglobin, an altered form of hemoglobin that further reduces oxygen delivery to organs like the brain and heart.
Naphthalene exposure can also lead to liver and kidney damage, and it may affect the central nervous system, potentially causing seizures or even coma in severe cases. Paradichlorobenzene, while generally considered less acutely toxic than naphthalene, can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, and large or chronic exposures have been linked to neurological effects like impaired balance and muscle weakness. Individuals with a genetic condition called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of naphthalene, as their red blood cells have a reduced ability to protect against oxidative stress caused by the chemical.
Recognizing Exposure and Taking Action
Exposure to mothball chemicals can manifest through a range of signs and symptoms. Common indicators include headaches, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. In cases involving naphthalene, more specific symptoms might appear, such as abdominal pain, confusion, drowsiness, an increased heart rate, or a yellowing of the skin and eyes, known as jaundice, which signals red blood cell damage. Young children and pets are particularly vulnerable to mothball poisoning because they may mistake the solid balls for candy or toys and ingest them.
If mothball exposure is suspected, take immediate action. Move the affected individual away from the source of the fumes. For any suspected ingestion or significant inhalation, contact a poison control center immediately by calling the national toll-free Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Medical professionals can provide guidance, which might involve activated charcoal to prevent absorption or supportive care for breathing. If clothing or blankets have been stored with mothballs, they should be thoroughly washed and aired out before use, especially for children.
Safe Use and Alternatives
To minimize exposure risks, mothballs should only be used as specified on their product label, as they are regulated pesticides. This means placing them inside tightly closed, airtight containers, preventing toxic fumes from escaping into living spaces. Keep mothballs out of reach of children and pets, who might be tempted to handle or ingest them. Using mothballs in open areas like closets, attics, or gardens is not recommended, as it can be ineffective, illegal, and harmful to people, pets, and the environment by contaminating soil and water.
For those seeking to avoid chemical pesticides, several safer alternatives exist for protecting clothing from pests. Natural deterrents like cedar blocks, chips, or rings repel moths with their scent. Lavender sachets also deter moths and impart a pleasant fragrance. Beyond specific products, proper storage techniques are effective: clean garments thoroughly before storage, use sealed vacuum bags or garment bags, and ensure storage areas are clean and dry. Other options include diatomaceous earth or commercial moth traps.