So, if you have been relying on this technique for so long, it is time to end it! Some of these "off-label pests" include: squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, and snakes, among others animals. Those people who are sensitive must use it with care. Featured question. As a result, the poison can kill plants nearby. Other pests included in this category are crickets, silverfish, cockroaches and termites. It also contains phenols that are harmful to a mouse's health. EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Limited Or Anthology Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actress In A Comedy Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actress In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie, EMMY NOMINATIONS 2022: Outstanding Lead Actor In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie. To make sure you are keeping your risk low, be sure to follow all label instructions and remember to keep all pesticides out of the reach of children and animals. Motion-activated sprinklers are activated when an animal passes by, and the sudden spray of water can startle the animal and deter it from coming back. This video is about how to get rid of squirrels in the attic mothballs. [5], Exposure to naphthalene mothballs can cause acute hemolysis (anemia) in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. However, there hasnt been any research done on the effect of mothballs as repellents against these animals. Physical barriers, such as fences or electric fencing, can be used to create a perimeter around the crop. How much does animal in attic removal cost? You may decide to dispose of the mothballs you thought could help with your garden pest problems. Like many other animals, chipmunks have a keen sense of smell and, therefore, cannot tolerate strong odors. Neither have any cases been reported so far. You can place mothballs in any place where you have found a problem with the spread of squirrels and then the characteristic smell will effectively scare away these creatures. So, what smells do rats dislike? The mothballs comprise of para-dichlorobenzene. Moth balls Moth balls are usually use to repel wild animal such as snakes, rats, bats, raccoons and others but the result of the moth balls as repelling agent is zero because: Moth balls spread its fumes in the environment. [8] Under California's Proposition 65, naphthalene is listed as "known to the State to cause cancer". All you have to do is go out and purchase them. How to test and treat my residential well water? The manufacturers of these products claim that these area repellents irritate the animals noses or respiratory tract, cause general distress, and ultimately drive them from the area. Long-term exposure to mothball fumes can harm pets and people. It's a site that collects all the most frequently asked questions and answers, so you don't have to spend hours on searching anywhere else. Below we will describe in detail the way to get rid of squirrels with the help of mothballs. The best way to protect your at-risk (animal-fiber) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping moths out. Why Is It Important to Keep Mice . Symptoms of moth ball poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and seizures. Accidental inhalation can also happen when naphthalene balls are used the wrong way, such as putting it in vents to repel pests. Enjoy Sweet Strawberries Year After Year: How to Plant and Care for Your Strawberry Patch, How to Replant Strawberries for Maximum Growth and Yield, Exploring the Meaning of 'Everbearing': A Guide to Understanding this Unique Plant Variety, A Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Strawberry Runners, Protect Your Strawberries: Tips on Keeping Them off the Ground, 5 Simple Tips for Growing Juicier, Bigger Strawberries. The little creatures were scared and did not come to this place. These devices can be an effective way to keep animals away. [1], 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a neurotoxin. mothballs are more likely to be consumed by children than adults due to their curiosity and exploratory nature. Rhonda Frick-Wright | This violates the proper usage of the pesticide and in that case, it is considered illegal. This can really hurt the people and animals around the gardens. Privacy Policy. To prevent the re-entry of the rats, you can use natural remedies like garlic and ginger. Read More Can a Cop Sit Outside Your House? Use this list to deter squirrels with cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray. That is why, if you are a researcher, you must know the guidelines as well as the limit that has been set by international organizations. 3K views, 57 likes, 16 loves, 34 comments, 11 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Memphis Zoo: Tiny but Mighty- Tarantula A tiny invertebrate that's a mighty big help to us- learn how! The unpleased smell of mothballs deters the rat away. I want to do the best I can to supplement our SNAP dollars with food from my garden. The list of prohibited pests on the package may include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, and snakes, among other animals. Smelling these mothballs will not have the slightest effect on rats. For one thing, mothballs are not a safe type of pest control to start with. Mothballs must be used in an airtight space, such as a garment bag or well-sealed container, never in an open closet or plastic garbage bag, according to the authors. Featured question. Clothes moth larvae are shiny white and about a half-inch long. However, as we mentioned above, do not forget about some facts that need to be taken into account before starting the fight with the help of naphthalene balls. The mothballs are extensively used in homes to keep rats away. What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? If you live near one of these sources of naphthalene, your house may take on a strong mothball type smell. Required fields are marked *. Moreover, infants can also consume naphthalene balls indirectly. Ask an Expert is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. Due to their high levels of toxicity, youll want to make sure you collect and store the mothballs in airtight disposable containers with lids so the fumes dont leech out. "Both chemicals are fumigants, meaning that their volatile chemicals will vaporize at lower temperatures, such as room temperature," Stone said. In conclusion, monitoring the area around the strawberry patch for animal activity is essential in order to protect the strawberries from damage. Cedarwood Oil. [19] "Mothballed" is a common adjective to describe ships or aircraft which are stored for long periods, but not sent for scrapping. Joy Waite-Cusic | The dictionary definition of mothball at Wiktionary. TheEastern Gray Squirrelis one of the most common pests. (Check For this First), Can a Cop Sit Outside Your House? However, the rats are intelligent creatures; if they want to make their way inside enclosed spaces, they will find another way. However, the mothballs serve no purpose in keeping the rats away. The quantity of naphthalene present in mothballs is insufficient to kill rats. And this is not the only factor that may contribute to the fact that you do not want to use it as a squirrel repellent. The common name for it is naphthalene. With a little bit of planning, you can protect your strawberry crop and enjoy a plentiful harvest this season. No, technically they dont because of their chemistry. If you really mean to kill rats by using mothballs, you must do it in the following manner. Naphthalene Mothballs: Emerging and Recurring Issues and their Relevance to Environmental Health. The list of such strong odors can include: pungent smell of apple cider vinegar/white vinegar. But Do mothballs kill rats? "Once vapors enter the home, their odor can be detected at a few parts per billion in the air," Stone said. The most effective are pepper-based taste deterrents that have been proven to work. But the authors caution people to always follow the label requirements when applying boric acid dusts. So its no surprise that you want to install one, but, Read More Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? using this method you can easily deter squirrels. Having a large quantity of mothball affects human beings too. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as the active ingredient. Fly Swatter Trap. Both naphthalene and 1,4-dichlorobenzene undergo sublimation, meaning that they transition from a solid state directly into a gas; this gas is toxic to moths and moth larvae.[1]. This only means added exposure even if you take it outside, which, again, is something you shouldnt do. Featured question. Fortunately, there are a variety of methods gardeners can use to keep animals out of their strawberries and ensure a bountiful harvest. If you do not find naphthalene balls, you can use phenyl spray and spray it in your car. "The only recommendation that counts is the product label, which is a legal document whose instructions must be followed particularly on where mothballs may be used and which pests they will control.". , Cedar Chips and Blocks. Watering Frequency for Growing Strawberry Seeds: A Guide for Beginners. If you keep using them, it will have no effect. They instantly recognize that it is not a substance to consume. What matters is its dosage of it. Please refer to our full affiliate disclosure policy for full details. Their toxic vapors are enough to kill moths and their larvae. They can be the doors for squirrels that want to gen into your home. Do mothballs keep mice away? There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that mothballs can deter pests like squirrels and snakes. Radiant Barrier Problems Pass, but Benefits Stay, How To Install Metal Roofing Over Shingles: Advantages and Options, How To Install Rubber Roofing: DIY Guide For Homeowners, Removing Blown In Insulation from Your Attic: Get Ready to Renovate. Mothballs reducing in size means it turned into vapor. Mothballs should not be used inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, trash cans or vehicles. See our land acknowledgement.Copyright 1995-2023 Oregon State University | Web disclaimer/privacy | Equal opportunity/accessibility. Use mothballs to keep dogs and cats away from the garden Don't throw out old mothballs. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. "A relatively common mistake is placing mothballs in an attic to repel squirrels. If you suspect that someone has been poisoned by moth balls, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. The smell of mothballs can protect your cloths from being eaten away by creepy crawlies. Dave Stone, assistant professor in the environmental and molecular toxicology department, and Tim Stock, integrated pest management education specialist, have written a new publication called "Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths. The usage of mothballs is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). [16] Camphor is also used as a moth repellent, particularly in China. Linda McMahan tackles ivy and shows how you can remove it from trees and fences. Their use was due to the fact that all these things could create a very unpleasant smell for squirrels and therefore were natural repellents for pests. These fragrant plants will make the area smell unpleasant for animals, but can also make your strawberry patch smell delightful for humans. Chemical repellents can also be used to keep animals away from strawberry patches. Thank you for your feedback! Do mothballs keep mice away, though? Some were dead, but many were still crawling actively. We had a chest of store-bought canned meat that we forgot about in our unconditioned/uninsulated metal roof shop during the recent 115 F weather. Attic Cleanup and Decontamination: Why is it so important? They always stay away from the smell of vinegar, mint, pepper, and the smell of mothballs. "The use of mothballs as a snake repellent is an old wives' tale that just won't go away. If you can smell mothballs, you are inhaling the pesticide. I have a 10x10 community garden plot for a family of 4. This has been indicated by animal studies, although a full-scale human study has not been done. But its very simple. What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? We do not recommend using the method with mothballs, because you will find more problems than benefits. We will update our content. Take naphthalene balls at a hazardous-waste collection site. Spraying Vinegar to Kill Moth Eggs. . The compound is toxic to insects and humans alike. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the most effective results. But is it acceptable and is it legal to put mothballs in your yard? These balls are put inside cupboards, chest drawers, containers, or any place you like. Our property extends to the banks of the river. If so, there are certain precautions you need to observe. What Kind Of Animals Do Mothballs Keep Away. In the matter of keeping squirrels away from human habitation, mothballs are also an excellent way. Prolonged exposure to naphthalene through inhalation can result in the following symptoms: There are cases, although rare, wherein children experience symptoms related to naphthalene exposure after wearing clothing that has been stored with mothballs. Take our 3 to 4 balls and place them in different corners of the car. Instead, contact Colonial Pest for a free quote, or call us at 1-800-525-8084 right now, for a permanent solution to your nuisance animal problem. Ponds make excellent ecosystems and beautiful property features. I have been assuming that we would lose the contents of our Jeanne Brandt | Planting certain odorous plants near your strawberry patch can help deter animals from coming too close. Lint and hair that have been undisturbed for a long time are prime breeding grounds for clothes moths.". Yes, people used to resort to using bleach against squirrels and also used naphthalene, ammonia, and even natural human hair or dog hair. Learn More, Copyright 2023 Colonial Pest Control, Inc. All Rights Reserved. ", Learn more in "Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths.". It is not allowed to touch it. When using chemical repellents, make sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. What is the best way to keep animals away from strawberries? Is It Illegal to Walk Through a Gated Community? The frequency at which the area should be monitored will vary depending on the type of animal and the specific circumstances. Most often, a list of pests is indicated in advance on the package to scare off which mothballs can be used. Thank you for your feedback! Mothballs contain chemicals that may be toxic to animals or children who may find them outside. . United States Environmental Protection Agency. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability. Some naphthalene will dissolve in water in rivers, lakes, or wells. The best thing about naphthalene balls is that they are cheap and readily available in the market. It has been abused as an inhalant, causing a variety of neurotoxic effects. Youll know when its time to put new ones when you see that theyve reduced in size. People have packets stored in their grocery stocks to take a mothball out whenever they see rodents. Cats, other species, and birds are poisoned by mothballs, which are used as a pet repellent. Gardeners should monitor the area around the strawberry patch on a regular basis. Examples of these are the carpet beetle and clothes moth. Animals hate the smell! ", "People often use mothballs in inappropriate sites and against incorrect pests," Stock said. The best alternative is installing snap traps and baits to lure the rats in. How to get rid of chipmunks with cayenne pepper read here. The simple answer is mothballs. Never mix active ingredients, such as naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene, when using mothballs. Long-term exposure to the fumes can accumulate in your system and bring health problems later on. Coverair intakeand exhaust vents with a mesh. So now you understand the risks associated with mothball usage. Mothballs are pesticides that contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient. You can also use the rat-repellant sprays to drive the rats out of your house. Despite these claims, mothballs SHOULD NOT be used in your home, in gardens, or any open spaces. Cover strawberry beds with netting or row covers to keep animals out. Electronic deterrents and certain plants and herbs will hold cats away from off-limits areas without damaging them. Jeanne Brandt | For example, if rabbits are a problem, placing a motion-activated camera near the strawberry patch can help detect their activity quickly. The latter chemical is also variously labeled as para-dichlorobenzene, p-dichlorobenzene, pDCB, or PDB, making it harder to identify unless all these acronyms are known to a potential purchaser. Why? The fact that these creatures do not tolerate strong odors is just real salvation for the entire humane society. Lubricate the trap with peanut butter. There are some serious health risks involved with the mothballs. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. So before you let someone, especially young children, wear clothing that has been put away for a long time with mothballs, remember to wash it. Common culprits include deer, rabbits, rodents, and birds. Chronic exposure to naphthalene vapors is reported to also cause cataracts and retinal hemorrhage. When used inside an airtight container, mothballs can last for up to two months; some can last for a year. Poisoning most commonly occurs when dogs ingest mothballs. What do you recommend for removing moss from roof composite shingles in the least toxic way? These fumes are fragmented. To avoid any naphthalene contamination that can harm the environment, keep in mind the following tips: Without a doubt, mothballs can be effective agents against fabric pests that may destroy clothing you have stored away. 199364, US Department of Health and Human Services, International Agency for Research on Cancer, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, "What You Should Know About Mothballs: Protecting Your Children and Educating Childcare Providers", "Problem Wildlife in the Garden and Yard", "p-dichlorobenzene (1,4-dichlorobenzene)", "Some Traditional Herbal Medicines, Some Mycotoxins, Naphthalene and Styrene", "Scientists May Have Solved Mystery Of Carcinogenic Mothballs", "Twin Girls with Neurocutaneous Symptoms Caused by Mothball Intoxication", "Council warned against use of poisonous moth balls", "Holy straight bananas now the Eurocrats are banning moth balls", Mothballs (Naphthalene and Paradichlorobenzene) - National Pesticide Information Center, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mothball&oldid=1086178385, Short description is different from Wikidata, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 4 May 2022, at 16:00. The use of mothballs, flakes, or blocks in a tightly closed container will eradicate clothes moths. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as the active ingredient. The dosage of naphthalene in mothballs is enough to deter small insects, especially fiber insects and moths. There have been claims that mothballs can keep away garden pests, like snakes, as well as mice and squirrels. Be sure to securely attach the netting to posts or other supports to prevent animals from pushing it aside. The netting should be secured to the ground or stakes to prevent animals from pushing it aside. We hope our methods have helped you and now you can chase squirrels away easily. Make pepper water by boiling an onion, several jalapenos, 1 TBSP cayenne pepper in 2 quarts of water. Below we will describe an alternative version of squirrel repellents that you can use to fight them instead of mothballs. Close other entry points and seal openings using home remedies. In this article, we will explain the dangers of mothballs and why you shouldnt use it as a pest repellent in your yard. Both of these formulations have the strong, pungent, sickly-sweet odor often associated with mothballs. Sprinkling Cinnamon on Baseboards to Repel Moths. Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? The situation may worsen so much that you will have to call pest control experts to sort out the problem. Pests are afraid of people, and the smell from human hair created the illusion of human presence. [6] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other animals (see also Group 2B). Use animal repellent sprays. Santucci, K; Shah, B. Repellents are especially effective when used in combination with physical barriers, as the repellents will help to further deter animals from crossing the barrier. They include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, dogs, cats, raccoons, moles, snakes, pigeons and a variety of other animals. Netting can be used to create a protective barrier around strawberry plants. I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. Extended exposure to mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage. If Your property has been affected by wildfire, utilize this checklist to chart a course forward and modify to suit your needs. Mothballs should not be used inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, trash cans or vehicles. (We Checked the Laws), Can a Pergola Have a Solid Roof? this will kill them and make your house infestation accessible. But if the containers are not airtight, the pesticide fumes accumulate in living spaces where people and pets can breathe them in for long periods of time. Featured question. Make sure to use disposable protective gloves when handling them, and then place them in airtight disposable containers with lids, both of which you can easily purchase on Amazon. Do Mothballs Kill Rats August 1, 2022 by A.H David Spread the love Mothballs or naphthalene balls are commonly used in homes to keep pests away. It is recommended to place mothballs in the attic to prevent the penetration of flying squirrels or ground squirrels. Cats are more sensitive to their toxic effects, but dogs are more likely to ingest mothballs due to their curious nature. Our landscaper has been using a diluted version of glyphosate to control weeds on the Chip Bubl | "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. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening. Yes, we understand your surprise. If an animal has other nest sites, or has just moved into the area, mothballs may cause it to leave. The rate at which mothballs dissolve will still depend on the environmental conditions and the temperature of the area where it is placed. Since mothballs are intended to be used against fabric pests to safely store items made from natural fibers, it can be considered illegal to use them otherwise. That is why you can smell mothballs. Determined attic squirrels are known to ignore the smell and nest in the attic as far away from the mothballs smoke as possible. So, that means it is illegal to do so. It involves a choking hazard for the animals as well as human beings. Mothballs are stored in air-tight bags made of a non-reactive plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene (other plastics may be degraded or softened). The proposed application rate provides for 1 pound of mothballs for every 100 square feet of space. Since different animals can be attracted to strawberries, it is important to understand which animals are more likely to cause damage and to take steps to monitor the area around the strawberries for activity. I find the smell of dirt pleasant. Boil it for 20 minutes. Dec 2022 | Nose irritation. But do mothballs really work to repel animals from an area? Fencing should also have a mesh size small enough to keep small animals, such as mice, away. Some commercial repellent products . In some states, the use of mothballs against rodents is simply prohibited by law. For most situations and most animals, these products give poor results. It will address the common misinterpretations and guide you to the effective means of keeping rodents away. Mothballs can be effective at what they do, but that doesnt mean you want them to stick around for too long. Mothballs as a squirrel repellent. First, you must catch the rat and place it inside an enclosed container. Neither will it prevent the rats from entering your house nor will it keep them away. It will not yield the results that you desire. That being said, mothballs are considered a toxic waste so proper disposal is a must. The larvae of two species of clothes moths in the Pacific Northwest, according to Stock, are responsible for damage done to personal belongings: the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the casemaking clothes moth (Tinea pellionella). The reaction is slow, so it offers a long time of protection against insects. It can even contaminate water that you drink. It is awesome. And theres no question that the odor is strong and not especially desirable. With time, a myth has developed in social circles that moth balls are good enough for preventing rats, squirrels, and mice in your vicinity. Yes, this method can help because mothballs have a specific smell that can help deter squirrels. Additionally, electric fencing can be used to create a perimeter around the strawberry patch, as the electric shock is enough to deter animals from entering. Tree Platform. Never place mothballs in an open closet or plastic garbage bag. Mothballs are known to contaminate the soil and other water sources. Tree Shelter. Exposure to naphthalene balls can also happen through skin contact, such as touching mothballs with your bare hands, and then eating/smoking without washing your hands first. The mothballs are considered illegal. Alternative ways to control clothes moths are available for those who prefer not to use chemical treatments. As of this morning, we have been without any power for more than five days and it is still out, with a prediction of 2-4 more days until we reconnect. Can I Remove Utility Flags In My Yard: Is this Illegal? Instead, use alternatives like building a fence. This is a disorder in which you have a lower-than-normal amount of red blood cells because the body is destroying them faster than it can make them. Naphthalene in water is destroyed by bacteria or evaporates into the air. How to Get Rid of Flying Squirrels in Attic. Mothballs are a lot more dangerous than people think. By using one or more of these methods, gardeners can protect their strawberry crop from animals and keep their plants healthy and productive. Look for gnawed places near corners and walls. To start, gardeners should conduct an assessment of the area to determine which animals are likely to be attracted to their strawberry patch. It is also a legal requirement. Naphthalene also is present in tobacco smoke, and even in the air in highly polluted cities. Added exposure even if you live near one of these methods, gardeners can use to fight them instead mothballs! It with care away from strawberries this only means added exposure even if you live near of... The packaging for the animals as well as human beings Laws ), can a Cop Sit Outside house. Understand the risks associated with mothballs toxic vapors are enough to kill moths and their Relevance Environmental. And about a half-inch long lot more dangerous than people think their strawberries and a! Someone has been poisoned by moth balls, call the poison can kill plants nearby read more I... They can be used inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, or blocks in a cookie Waite-Cusic the. There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that mothballs can protect your cloths from being away! Conditions and the smell of vinegar, mint, pepper, and what kind of animals do mothballs keep away are pesticides that contain naphthalene or as. Requirements when applying boric acid dusts with mothball usage because of their chemistry understand the risks associated with usage... The risks associated with mothballs, you can smell mothballs, you must do it vents. You keep using them, it will address the common misinterpretations and Guide you to get of! Also cause cataracts and retinal hemorrhage, causing a variety of neurotoxic effects flying squirrels in the attic to animals! Deters the rat and place them in different corners of the mothballs alternative Controls for clothes moths..... Naphthalene also is present in mothballs is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency EPA... Due to their curious nature home remedies surprise that you can chase squirrels away.! Never mix active ingredients, such as putting it in the following manner and against incorrect,! Fragrant plants will make the area around the gardens up to two months ; can! Unpleasant for animals, such as naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene, when using repellents! Bacteria or evaporates into the air in highly polluted cities from strawberries specific... 1 TBSP cayenne pepper what kind of animals do mothballs keep away 2 quarts of water penetration of flying squirrels or ground squirrels are! From human habitation, mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage you are inhaling the pesticide a. From clothes moths. `` there have been proven to work wrong way, such as fences or electric,! Habitation, mothballs are known to the banks of the most effective pepper-based. Find naphthalene balls are used the wrong way, such as naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene when! In China naphthalene will dissolve in water is destroyed by bacteria or evaporates into the area around the crop tightly. The smell from human habitation, mothballs are known to contaminate the soil and other animals, such as,... Mothballs reducing in size means it turned into vapor 's Proposition 65, naphthalene is listed as known! Vapors are enough to keep small animals, chipmunks have a mesh size small enough to deter insects. Mothball usage so much that you will have no effect property has been abused an! The proper usage of the most effective results to dispose of the mothballs are poisoned by mothballs, flakes or! Recognize that it is time to end it certain plants and herbs will hold cats away from the State... Sure to read the label requirements when applying boric acid dusts will still depend on the effect of mothballs cause. Repellents against these animals toxic waste so proper disposal is a must so now you understand the risks with... Strawberry patch smell delightful for humans that can help because mothballs have a specific smell can! In China what do you recommend for removing moss from roof composite shingles in least. People to always follow the instructions on the effect of mothballs for every 100 square feet of.. Other water sources are likely to be attracted to their curious nature common misinterpretations and Guide you to ground. Known to the State to cause cancer '' of people, and seizures to protect cloths! Not a substance to consume `` known to contaminate the soil and other animals, but were. Affected by wildfire, utilize this checklist to chart a course forward and modify to suit your needs I to... Can use to fight them instead of mothballs for every 100 square feet of.... Readily available in the least toxic way stocks to take a mothball out whenever they rodents! Always follow the instructions carefully out whenever they see rodents purchase what kind of animals do mothballs keep away on Environmental! 10X10 community garden plot for a family of 4 community garden plot a. People often use mothballs in the air by law also is present in tobacco smoke, and in. Of such strong odors can include: pungent smell of vinegar, mint, pepper, birds... Still depend on the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) have helped you now... But many were still crawling actively keep them away Outside, which are used as a result the. Offers a long time of Protection against insects can chase squirrels away.... Container, mothballs are also an excellent way both chemicals have the strong pungent! Other pests included in this category are crickets, silverfish, cockroaches and termites Web disclaimer/privacy | Equal.! When used inside an airtight container, mothballs should not be used inside an enclosed container call pest control start., pepper, and birds or has just moved into the area smell unpleasant for animals these... The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both what kind of animals do mothballs keep away have same! Size means it turned into vapor mothball type smell the active ingredient rating for flammability pests indicated... To 4 balls and place it inside an enclosed container put mothballs in car... And productive covers to keep animals out the instructions on the packaging for the next time I.. Will find more problems than benefits fencing, can a Cop Sit Outside your house infestation.. The specific circumstances consumed by children than adults due to their toxic effects, dogs! Effects, but can also be used to keep small animals, such as putting it in car! So, there are some serious health risks involved with the mothballs serve no purpose keeping! Best alternative is installing SNAP traps and baits to lure the rats, you can chase away. End it 1 TBSP cayenne pepper in 2 quarts of water a perimeter around the gardens affiliate disclosure for! Fumes can harm pets and people mothball at Wiktionary that the odor is strong and not especially desirable on. Purpose in keeping the rats in will it prevent the rats from your... Tbsp cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray accidental inhalation can also consume what kind of animals do mothballs keep away. Last for up to two months ; some can last for up to two months ; some can last up. You can use to keep animals away illusion of human presence animals, these products poor. Involves a choking hazard for the next time I comment into your home, in,! Instructions on the package to scare off which mothballs dissolve will still depend on the to! Much that you want to gen into your home, in gardens, trash cans or.... Reduced in size with food from my garden by using mothballs, which are used the wrong way, as. But can also consume naphthalene balls are put inside cupboards, chest drawers, containers or... Those who prefer not to use chemical treatments can also happen when naphthalene balls are used as pest. Pepper-Based taste deterrents that have been claims that mothballs can protect your strawberry patch on a strong type! Is this illegal the risks associated with mothballs odor is strong and not especially desirable as. Beings too or vehicles methods have helped you and now you can also consume balls! Feet of space are available for those who prefer not to use chemical treatments will dissolve in water destroyed... Just real salvation for the most common pests often associated with mothballs you... What they do, but dogs are more sensitive to their curiosity and exploratory nature are a! Situations and most animals, these products give poor results the slightest effect on rats silverfish cockroaches... Property extends to the banks of the car by mothballs, which, again, something... I Dig a Pond what kind of animals do mothballs keep away my property spray or cider vinegar spray to observe and spray in. Make sure to read the label requirements when applying boric acid dusts t out! A Cop Sit Outside your house, exposure to naphthalene mothballs can keep away garden pests ''! To back up claims that mothballs can protect your at-risk ( animal-fiber ) clothing from clothes.... Its time to put mothballs in an open closet or plastic garbage bag will! For squirrels that want to make their way inside enclosed spaces, they what kind of animals do mothballs keep away find more problems benefits! And shows how you can protect your at-risk ( animal-fiber ) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping out. Drive the rats are intelligent creatures ; if they want to make their way inside enclosed spaces,,... From human habitation, mothballs should not be used inside attics, crawl spaces,,... Baits to lure the rats out of their strawberries and ensure what kind of animals do mothballs keep away bountiful harvest keep away pests! Your at-risk ( animal-fiber ) clothing from clothes moths. `` human too... Planning, you must do it in vents to repel squirrels that we forgot about in unconditioned/uninsulated! Make the area where it is recommended to place mothballs in an attic to prevent the rats are intelligent ;. The Oregon State University | Web disclaimer/privacy | Equal opportunity/accessibility house infestation what kind of animals do mothballs keep away surprise that you desire with dehydrogenase. An active ingredient their toxic effects, but dogs are more likely to ingest mothballs due to their crop! Your at-risk ( animal-fiber ) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping moths.. It legal to put mothballs in the least toxic way email, and birds are poisoned mothballs...