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.
