The Truth About What In Your Closet May Kill You

I don't think I have seen a mothball in two decades, but I believe they are still out there in someone's closet. Growing up, my grandparents put out mothballs like they were free. Every closet in their house had a handful thrown on a shelf or the floor.

Mothballs Are Highly Toxic And Must Be Used With Caution

Most of the time, they were used in my Grandparents' summer house when we closed it for the winter. The mothballs were supposed to keep out the mice and the moths. I am sure they did both, now that I read just how toxic Mothballs really can be.

Mothball Warning from NYS DEC in Time For Summer Living in New York

Just this week, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) released information warning people that mothballs should only be used as directed and that other uses for them are illegal. They are warning against using them in your garden due to their toxicity.

Year after year, the NYS DEC  warns people not to use mothballs to repel pets:

Every year, the NYSDEC receives dozens of complaints regarding the use of moth balls to repel domestic animals and wildlife indoors and outdoors. Moth balls are not designed to be used in this manner. This use creates a risk of pesticide exposure to people, pets, wildlife, and the environment. (NYS DEC via Press Release issued 6/24/2025)

Mothballs Are Pesticides And Must Be Used As Directed

Mothballs, like other pesticides, must be used following their directions. The NYS DEC also wants the public to realize that using mothballs in any manner not listed on the pesticide label is dangerous and illegal.

Why Should I Be Concerned? 

• Mothball active ingredients are either paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene. 
• The vapors from mothballs are toxic. 
• Incorrect use and long-term exposure may cause health problems, harm children, and contaminate soil, water, and plants.

Mothballs start as a solid form of insecticide that slowly release chemicals to kill clothes moths and carpet beetles. These vapors are harmful to both humans and animals alike; therefore, mothballs are only to be used in airtight spaces.

You can visit the National Pesticide Information Center for more on mothballs and their proper use. You can also contact pestmgt@dec.ny.gov or call 518-402-8746.