Are moth balls harmful?

Mothballs are nearly 100% active ingredient, and the active ingredient may be either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Each active ingredient can cause different health effects if the exposure is high enough. Mothballs slowly turn from solids to toxic vapor. When you smell mothballs, you are inhaling the insecticide. read more

When you smell mothballs, you are inhaling the insecticide. Mothballs can also be dangerous if they are chewed or eaten. Children, pets and wildlife may mistake them for food or candy and eat them. One mothball can cause serious harm if eaten by a small child. read more

These fumes are actually caused by an insecticide, designed to kill moths when the mothballs are packed with clothing or fabrics within an airtight container. The insecticidal chemicals -- naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene -- are toxic and potentially harmful to humans, pets and plants. read more