Mothballs are a familiar sight in closets and storage bins, often used to protect clothing from insect damage. But do these pungent pellets actually repel more than just moths? Pest control experts confirm that mothballs are highly specific in their effectiveness, primarily targeting clothes moths and little else.
How Mothballs Work
Mothballs contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, chemicals that release toxic fumes. These fumes are lethal to moth larvae, but only in concentrated, airtight environments. According to James Agardy of Viking Pest Control, the process is all about vapor: the chemicals must build up to be effective.
This method means mothballs are ineffective if used improperly—left in open air, the concentration dissipates too quickly to kill pests. Moreover, these fumes are harmful to humans and pets, making proper handling essential.
What Pests Are Mothballs Effective Against?
The name says it all: mothballs primarily deter clothes moths. These insects feed on natural fibers like wool, cashmere, and silk, leaving telltale holes in garments. Trent Frazer, lead entomologist at Aptive Pest Control, emphasizes that even with mothballs, complete protection is not guaranteed. Proper storage and regular inspection are more reliable.
While some suggest mothballs might repel silverfish or carpet beetles, experts like Jeremy Logsdon of Preventative Pest Control say this is largely a myth. Mothballs target only two species: tinea pellionella (casemaking clothes moths) and tineola bisselliella (webbing clothes moths). Ed Dolshun of Catchmaster agrees, stating that using mothballs for other pests is “almost always ineffective.”
Proper Use Is Crucial
The key to mothball effectiveness lies in sublimation, the process where solids turn into gas. To kill moths, garments must be sealed in airtight containers to trap the toxic fumes. Leaving mothballs exposed risks spreading harmful gases throughout your home, endangering people and pets.
In conclusion, mothballs are a specialized tool for controlling clothes moths, not a general pest repellent. Their effectiveness relies on proper, contained use, and their toxicity means careful handling is paramount.
