Do Mothballs Keep Animals Away? The Toxic Truth

It's the most common "home remedy" we hear about: throwing a handful of mothballs into the attic or crawl space to drive away pests. Unfortunately, this old wives' tale is not only ineffective, it's dangerous and illegal.

1. It Doesn't Work

While the smell of mothballs (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) is unpleasant, it is rarely strong enough to drive a determined animal out of its shelter.

We frequently find raccoons and squirrels living directly next to piles of mothballs. If an animal has babies in your attic, a bad smell is not going to make her abandon them. She will simply kick the mothballs aside or bury them in insulation.

2. It Is Dangerous to Your Health

Mothballs turn from a solid into a toxic gas. When you use them in an attic or crawl space, those gases can seep into your living area.

• Carcinogenic: The chemicals in mothballs are known carcinogens.
• Respiratory Issues: Inhaling the fumes can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory irritation.
• Pet/Child Risk: If a child or pet finds and eats a mothball, it can be fatal.

3. It Is Illegal

Mothballs are a pesticide regulated by the EPA. The label explicitly states they are for use in airtight containers (like a garment bag) to kill clothes moths.

Using a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its labeling is a violation of federal law. Tossing them in your yard or attic is illegal.

The Better Alternative

There is no magic powder or spray that will permanently solve a wildlife problem. The only effective solution is:

1. Trapping/Removal: Physically removing the animal.
2. Exclusion: Sealing the entry points with steel so they can't return.