Mothballs: Naphthalene and Paradichlorobenzene

En español

Mothballs, moth flakes, crystals, and bars are insecticides. They come in a solid form that slowly gives off a toxic gas that kills clothes moths and other insects. Mothballs are not wildlife repellents. They should not be used around food or food preparation areas. If mothballs are used out in the open, they can be harmful to people, pets, or wildlife that may touch or eat the mothballs, or breathe in the vapors.

Mothballs in the U.S. contain very high concentrations of the chemical naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as active ingredients. They are meant to be used in closed, airtight containers so that the fumes they produce are trapped. The trapped fumes build up and kill any clothes moths inside. If mothballs are used out in the open, they can be harmful to people, pets, or wildlife that may touch or eat the mothballs, or breathe in the vapors.

Regulation, Proper Uses, and Alternatives

Health Effects of Mothballs

Chemical Properties and Environmental Fate

Additional Resources:

• The facts about mothballs - University of Florida Extension
• Mothballs and moth crystals - Oregon Metro
• What you should know about mothballs - Louisiana Department of Health
• Mothball toxicity in pets - PetPoison Helpline
• Recognition and Management of Pesticide Poisonings: Fumigants - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

If you have questions about this, or any pesticide-related topic, please call NPIC at 800-858-7378 (8:00am - 12:00pm PST), or email at npic@ace.orst.edu.