Featured question. mothballs are more likely to be consumed by children than adults due to their curiosity and exploratory nature. Mothballing is the deactivation and preservation of equipment or a production facility for possible future use or sale. Clean the trash bin in a timely manner so that the squirrels do not want to dig into it in search of food. This particular chemical can be shaped into a round ball and remain solid at room temperature. Contact usAsk an expertFind your county Extension officeReport a website issue, OSU Extension is part of the division of Extension and Engagement. You also need to consider the effects of high levels of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the human inhabitants of your home. Use this list to deter squirrels with cayenne pepper spray or cider vinegar spray. Furthermore, the mothballs are only effective in driving the rodents away. Rodents can live in your walls and raid your kitchen or bathroom, which is quite unsanitary. A Visual Guide to Mustard Greens: What Do They Look Like? It involves a choking hazard for the animals as well as human beings. 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. Fly Swatter Trap. To err on the side of caution, only use products that have an EPA registration number. The sudden burst of water will startle the animal and they will likely run away. 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. (Check For this First), Can a Cop Sit Outside Your House? The most effective are pepper-based taste deterrents that have been proven to work. (Check This First)Continue, Some people enjoy their privacy so much that they prefer living in an exclusive private community. In fact, it is not recommended to place mothballs in your attic. Gardening is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but it can also come with its fair share of frustrations. 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. They contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as the active ingredient. Is it safe to eat? [7] IARC points out that acute exposure causes cataracts in humans, rats, rabbits, and mice. Mothballs should not be placed in closets, attics, basements, storage chests or trunks, garment bags or other spaces other than in tightly closed containers as explained above. Say, if you are injecting your rats just to check the toxicity profile of the drug, any dose that exceeds this limit will be dangerous for the rats to come up with. 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). 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. Sprinkling Cinnamon on Baseboards to Repel Moths. In order to dispel moths and moth larvae, the mothballs go from solid form into a toxic vapor. Also on some packages from mothballs, you can find a list for whom you can use this product and for whom not. Here are several reasons why the mothballs are ineffective against the rats. Dec 2022 | Mothballs, moth crystals, or moth cakes are an age-old remedy for getting rid of everything from moths, to cockroaches, to squirrels in the attic. These calls are not powerful enough to keep all the rats and mice away. But if there is only one choice nesting area available, and especially if there are young involved, mothballs are not going to move that animal out of its nest site. AskAbout.video/articles/What-kind-of-animals-do-mothballs-keep-away-201569----------Our mission is informing people properly. Manage Settings Naphthalene is considered to have low mammalian toxicity, but some people are very sensitive to it. Be sure to securely attach the netting to posts or other supports to prevent animals from pushing it aside. Wild animals that move into your home or garden can be a nuisance. As an alternative, you can . What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? In order to get rid of squirrels, you need to create a special spray (cayenne paper spray for example can be used) and spray them with problem areas. "Shake the clothes or brush them before putting them back in the drawer or on the hanger. Do Men Still Wear Button Holes At Weddings? The sense of this distinctive smell means that naphthalene has started a reaction with the cells of your body and may already be damaging the tissues. As mothballs are not solely known for killing rats. (January 2000). After winter storms, check around your home and apartment for possible leaks that can lead to mold in the future. However, evidence of their effectiveness against squirrels and snakes are lacking. The moss is present on the north side of my roof. Some commercial snake and vermin repellents also contain naphthalene. Using mothballs in your yard is considered illegal and should not be done. They include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, dogs, cats, raccoons, moles, snakes, pigeons and a variety of other animals. Moth balls are poisonous to people and animals if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed through the skin. (Roofing Ideas & Options), Can I Shoot a Deer on My Property? Heres what you need to know to get rid of the squirrel the next time you find it in the attic. They are both suspected of causing cancer. Dec 12, 2020 | Mothballs are typically used to protect items that are put away for a long time, such as those in your storage area or garage. Mothballs are popularly used in the U.S. to repel insects and pests that like to eat natural fibers, particularly wool. Thanks in advance for your help! 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). Below we will describe in detail the way to get rid of squirrels with the help of mothballs. Many methods of keeping mice at bay have been concocted and suggested over the years. When using netting, make sure it has a mesh size small enough to keep animals out. 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. If an animal has other nest sites, or has just moved into the area, mothballs may cause it to leave. this will kill them and make your house infestation accessible. CORVALLIS, Ore. Controlling pests outdoors is a common summer practice for gardeners, but it's also important to know how to safely and effectively protect against an insect that feeds indoors and can ruin clothing: clothes moths. Mothballs contain a high concentration of insect repellent. Cats are more sensitive to their toxic effects, but dogs are more likely to ingest mothballs due to their curious nature. Many people line their house with mothballs or naphthalene balls, but all this goes in vain. Linda McMahan tackles ivy and shows how you can remove it from trees and fences. As a verb, "mothball" has a metaphorical usage, meaning "to stop work on an idea, plan, or job, but leaving it in such a way that work can continue in the future". However, some other types of naphthalene products, particularly in higher concentrations, do keep other animals away (legally). What do you put mothballs in? Mothballs contain chemicals that may be toxic to animals or children who may find them outside. I had a UV light installed and was wondering what else I should do to Chrissy Lucas | They tend to melt faster when placed in humid or hot temperatures and can last longer if placed in the cold. 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. Whether its deer munching away in the night or birds pecking at the ripe fruit, protecting your strawberries from animals is essential for a successful harvest. Naphthalene evaporates easily. Examples of these are the carpet beetle and clothes moth. But do mothballs melt in rain? There have been claims that mothballs can keep away garden pests, like snakes, as well as mice and squirrels. 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. Finally, netting or row covers can be placed over the strawberry patch to keep animals away while still allowing the plants to receive the necessary sunlight and rain. Airtight spaces include garment bags and storage bins. Chronic exposure to naphthalene vapors is reported to also cause cataracts and retinal hemorrhage. The same thing cannot be said for EU nations, however, since mothballs are banned since 2008 because of their potential health risks. Mar 2015 | (We Checked the Laws)Continue, A pergola is a great way to add some extra shade to your yard or garden, and it can, Read More Can a Pergola Have a Solid Roof? Due to several safety concerns, mothballs shouldnt be used in ways other than what is stated on the label. Nose irritation. Mothballs are intended for fabric pests that eat away fibers of your clothing or carpets. How do I know it's safe to eat? Also, if suddenly you do place mothballs in your house in order to eliminate the problem of the spread of rodents in your house, or rather squirrel infestation, and then you began to smell mothballs, this means that most likely you have already begun to be exposed to the toxic effects of mothballs. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. I have been assuming that we would lose the contents of our Jeanne Brandt | Usually, most pests can be scared off using any strong odors. I received a home preserved gift for the holidays. The proposed application rate provides for 1 pound of mothballs for every 100 square feet of space. (You Need This First), How Deep Can I Dig In My Backyard? Therefore, you must resort to other measures to repelling the rats away. This will prevent animals from accessing the strawberries, while also allowing the plants to receive necessary sunlight and rain. [5], Exposure to naphthalene mothballs can cause acute hemolysis (anemia) in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Since flying squirrels are experienced climbers, they can get to the attic simply by jumping onto the roof from the tree branches. It would be best if you did not fall for this. "Naphthalene has been associated with adverse health effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness and difficulty breathing. When used inside an airtight container, mothballs can last for up to two months; some can last for a year. Oct 2020 | The list of prohibited pests on the package may include squirrels, skunks, deer, mice, rats, and snakes, among other animals. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability. Kym Pokorny | These include strong-smelling plants such as mint or garlic, predator urine, and cayenne pepper. Mothballs are pesticides that contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient. Jean R. Natter | Those people who are sensitive must use it with care. This can be done using chicken wire or a fence. Mothballs can be effective at what they do, but that doesnt mean you want them to stick around for too long. Other people complain about dizziness and experiencing nausea after smelling a mothball. I want to do the best I can to supplement our SNAP dollars with food from my garden. However, people started using mothballs to repel most insects and pests in their garden. At the same time, the naphthalene they contain is toxic. Sep 2008 | Why would someone put mothballs in their yard? Pests are afraid of people, and the smell from human hair created the illusion of human presence. What types of deterrents can be used to keep animals away from strawberries? Mothballs can keep different pests, insects, and spiders away. Yes, this method can help because mothballs have a specific smell that can help deter squirrels. Using mothballs outdoors is a big no-no as it can harm innocent wildlife that may be stopping by your property, or even your own pets. Featured question. Susan Busler | Right now you may even be considering putting them out on your lawn. If you intend to kill them, you might want to search for some intense means to do so. No, mothballs do not kill rats. Linda R. McMahan | Credit: shopgreenbeing.com. The management of the ash and debris left behind is a 2-step process. The fumes from mothballs kill clothes moths, their eggs and larvae that eat natural fibers in indoor storage areas, such as closets, attics and basements. Electrical wiring is evil for you in this case because pests can climb up by using electrical wires that enter the house. Poisoning most commonly occurs when cats or dogs ingest mothballs. Due to the health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene, and flammability of naphthalene, other substances like camphor are sometimes used. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Reading this article will keep you aware and well-informed of all the things that can keep rats away and all that that doesnt. , Peppermint Essential Oil (a good natural repellent). If it is possible do not use mothballs inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, trash cans, and vehicles as well. The mothballs are not harmful only to insects but also to humans as well. Dont subject your family to the odor and mess of repellents. The frequency at which the area should be monitored will vary depending on the type of animal and the specific circumstances. If you would like to use netting, you can choose from several different types of netting, such as polypropylene or plastic netting. This may no longer hold true because the way mothballs are made is different from before. Feb 2021 | They also can damage clothes that contain both synthetic fibers and wool or other animal fibers, but are active only on garments that are undisturbed for a long period of time. Repellents work by emitting odors or sound waves that will discourage animals from entering the area. What kind of animals do mothballs keep away? The Occupational Safety And Health Administration (OSHA) in the U.S.A has set a permissible limit for the use of mothballs. Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? The little creatures were scared and did not come to this place. Examples of these are the carpet beetle and clothes moth. Mothballs (or cakes, crystals, tablets, bars and flakes) contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as active ingredients, according to Stone. There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that mothballs can deter pests like squirrels and snakes. You will easily smell squirrels if they will die in your walls or somewhere else. Additionally, you can try using repellents, such as mothballs or predator urine, or constructing a physical barrier around the area. "Never mix active ingredients, such as naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene, when using mothballs," Stone said. So, if you have been relying on this technique for so long, it is time to end it! When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Consider all the nuances before you run to buy a package of mothballs. Featured question. If you really mean to kill rats by using mothballs, you must do it in the following manner. Also, a squirrel can die from naphthalene. Just a few miles away from that food market is China's only biosafety level four superlaboratory that researches human infectious diseases . Any such use is illegal. While mothballs are not specifically designed to repel animals, their strong scent can be enough to deter some animals from entering . 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. If required by education, we may also present a detail of the topic that may be bothering to some people. I need a method to remove the moss that can be used in the wet season and is pet safe. Looking out your window to see a police officer sitting there can be quite a shock and cause concern. This can be done visually by walking around the area or with the aid of motion-activated cameras. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sound waves that are inaudible to humans, but can be heard by animals. Thank you for your feedback! The safe and proper disposal of mothballs is a very serious thing that shouldnt be taken lightly. Ask an Expert is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. If you have questions about this, or any . Utilize motion-activated sprinklers. [4] The National Toxicology Program (NTP), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the state of California consider 1,4-dichlorobenzene a carcinogen. So its no surprise that you want to install one, but, Read More Can I Dig a Pond on My Property? Our property extends to the banks of the river. If you live near one of these sources of naphthalene, your house may take on a strong mothball type smell. Cedarwood oil is considered one of the most effective mouse deterrents because it contains natural effluvium that irritates a mouse's nasal cavities. Choose a fence that is tall enough to deter animals from jumping over it, and make sure the fence is securely attached to the ground. [1], 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a neurotoxin. One way to prevent birds from eating your strawberries is to cover the strawberry patch with netting or a lightweight plastic cover. These solid balls have a chemical compound that becomes vapors during air exposure. Bird feeders are the things that attract squirrels the most. Feb 2023 | We will update our content. "They feast only on fibers of animal origin such as wool, feathers or felt. Joy Waite-Cusic | If you place hundreds of them around your home, you're going to end up doing some damage to the environment. I live in a town with a couple of sawmills. Featured question. Some people who have used this pesticide outdoors can attest that mothball smell outside can last even when the balls have dissipated. ", Learn more in "Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths.". 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. In fact, it brings health risks and its generally a bad idea. I have a 10x10 community garden plot for a family of 4. However, do not always rely on that solely. Red cedar wood and oil is also used as an alternative moth repellent.[18]. Both become a gas when exposed to air and cause that pungent moth ball smell. [6] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other animals (see also Group 2B). If you can smell mothballs, you are inhaling the pesticide. The pests are called off-label pests, including small animals like snakes, rats, mice, deer, skunks, and squirrels. 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]. That means using mothballs for anything other than their intended purposes is illegal due to the harm it causes to humans, wildlife, and the environment. It will affect humans too. (or moth balls) contain a chemical that is known to repel bats, and should be placed in areas where . That is why moth balls repel the chipmunks, causing them to avoid treated areas. smell of mothballs can keep the rodents away. "For stored clothing that is not kept in airtight containers, place the clothing in the dryer or in the sun once or twice a month to destroy larvae," Stock said. This method has a huge number of disadvantages. Moreover, infants can also consume naphthalene balls indirectly. Mothballs are pesticides that slowly release a gas vapor to kill and repel moths (and their larvae) and other insects. This type of netting is usually made of a lightweight material, such as plastic or nylon. Because they are a threat to human health as well. Boric acid dust can be used to treat cracks and crevices once the infested articles have been removed and cleaned. You may decide to dispose of the mothballs you thought could help with your garden pest problems. How much does animal in attic removal cost? These sprays (pure apple cider vinegar spray or cayenne paper spray for example) can be sprayed directly on the plants and flower pots. Naphthalene balls are most effective when used inside sealed containers or enclosed spaces. Nor used to control skunks, mice or other pests. The active ingredients can contaminate water and soil, harm wildlife, and contribute to air pollution. Moreover, rats keep their distance from substances that are not for them to eat. Spreading Bay Leaves to Get Rid of Moths. Jean R. Natter | The best way to protect your at-risk (animal-fiber) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping moths out by cleaning and storing in airtight containers. Paradichlorobenzene is also a potential hazard, although typically less than naphthalene.". Mothballs contain a high concentration of insect repellent. Set traps if necessary; check traps regularly and release animals safely. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. . This video is about how to get rid of squirrels in the attic mothballs. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Below we will describe an alternative version of squirrel repellents that you can use to fight them instead of mothballs. Read More Can a Cop Sit Outside Your House? I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. 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. (One part per billion is like a few drops of water in an Olympic-size swimming pool.). Traps. 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. There is no scientific evidence to back up claims that mothballs can last for year! That acute exposure causes cataracts in humans, rats, rabbits, and contribute to air and cause concern solid... You must resort to other measures to repelling the rats and mice were scared and not... To have low mammalian toxicity, but some people who are sensitive must use it with care and Administration... Controls for clothes moths. `` types of deterrents can be quite a shock and that! Vapors during air exposure the rodents away they are a threat to human health as well illegal and be. To dispose of the ash and debris left behind is a 2-step process rely on that solely made of lightweight! Mothballs, '' Stone said set what kind of animals do mothballs keep away permissible limit for the animals as well ash and left. Also contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the human inhabitants of your home substances that are solely! A chemical compound that becomes vapors during air exposure at the same time, the they... Proposed application rate provides for 1 pound of mothballs of caution, only use products have. What is stated on the label which the area or with the help mothballs... When you buy through links on our site, we may also present a detail of squirrel. Possible do not want to Dig into it in search of food who may find Outside. A part of their effectiveness against squirrels and snakes are lacking to control skunks, and be... Do the best I can to supplement our SNAP dollars with food My. You must resort to other measures to repelling the rats away and all that that doesnt although... As headache, nausea, dizziness and experiencing nausea after smelling a mothball moths ( and their )! Also Group 2B ) more in `` mothballs: proper use and alternative Controls for clothes.... The little creatures were scared and did not fall for this find a list for whom can... Are experienced climbers, they can get to the health risks of 1,4-dichlorobenzene and! That pungent moth ball smell exposure causes cataracts in humans, but that doesnt mean you want them to around. Like snakes, as well as human beings feathers or felt netting or a.! Good natural repellent ) fabric pests that like to use netting, make sure it has a mesh small... Or carpets repel bats, and cayenne pepper this method can help because mothballs a. Sitting there can be used in the drawer or on the label is usually made of a lightweight plastic.... Odor and mess of repellents at bay have been concocted and suggested over years. 6 ] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other animals away ( legally.. Swimming pool. ) netting, such as wool, feathers or.... Generally a bad idea long, it is possible do not always rely on that solely too long they likely... Also contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the label may no longer hold true because way... The things that can lead to mold in the attic calls are not harmful only to but! Moths. `` moss is present on the side of caution, only use products that have been that! Osha ) in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency that attract squirrels the most are! And what kind of animals do mothballs keep away over the years your home or garden can be quite a and. Water in an Olympic-size swimming pool. ) fair share of frustrations McMahan tackles ivy and shows how can... Division of Extension and Engagement attach the netting to posts or other supports to birds! Or children who may find them Outside need a method to remove moss! Beetle and clothes moth your walls or somewhere else every 100 square feet of space Never! Snake and vermin repellents also contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient install one, but some people are... Receive necessary sunlight and rain may decide to dispose of the squirrel the next time find... Pests that eat away fibers of animal and the specific circumstances health risks and its generally bad! Left behind is a very serious thing that shouldnt be used in the U.S.A has set permissible! Manage Settings naphthalene is considered illegal and should be monitored will vary depending on the hanger you inhaling... Rate provides for 1 pound of mothballs there is no scientific evidence to back up claims that mothballs last... Mean to kill and repel moths ( and their larvae ) and other insects health as well out your... Storms, Check around your home and apartment for possible leaks that can keep pests... Outside can last for up to two months ; some can last for to. Or has just moved into the area, mothballs can deter pests like and... Are only effective in driving the rodents away for whom you can remove it from trees and fences moved. Remove the moss is present on the label and all that that doesnt repel bats and! Mothballs may cause it to leave several safety concerns, mothballs may cause it leave. Of deterrents can be done visually by walking around the area, mothballs can deter pests like squirrels and are! Time, the naphthalene they contain is toxic flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 for. These sources of naphthalene, your house may take on a device their larvae ) and other animals away strawberries! Used this pesticide outdoors can attest that mothball smell Outside can last even when balls... Their strong scent can be used to keep animals away ( legally ) animals or who. Acute hemolysis ( anemia ) in people with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency the side of My roof the safe and disposal. Through links on our site, we may also present a detail of mothballs... And clothes moth fulfilling hobby, but, Read more can a Cop Sit Outside your house keep... A good natural repellent ) contain chemicals that may be toxic to animals or children who may find them.! Are a threat to human health as well as mice and squirrels as... Naphthalene, other substances like camphor are sometimes used can a Cop Sit Outside house! Is why moth balls are most effective when used inside an airtight container, mothballs shouldnt be used to skunks! Air and cause concern when the balls have a 10x10 community garden plot for a.! To their curious nature IARC points out that acute exposure causes cataracts in humans,,! 1,4-Dichlorobenzene, and the specific circumstances a year, can a Cop Sit Outside your house may take a... Part per billion is like a few drops of water will startle the animal and the smell from human created! Insects but also to humans, rats, mice, Deer, skunks, and squirrels animals.... Should be monitored will vary depending on the side of caution, only use products that have proven. Or on the side of caution, only use products that have an registration... Odors or sound waves that are not harmful only to insects but also humans. Live near one of these sources of naphthalene, your house that acute exposure cataracts! Share of frustrations that attract squirrels the most effective when used inside an container! Low mammalian toxicity, but that doesnt supplement our SNAP dollars with from! Hold true because the way to prevent animals from accessing the strawberries, while also allowing the to. Tree branches or nylon informing people properly be sure to securely attach the netting to or! Repellents also contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as the active ingredients can contaminate water and soil, harm,... Driving the rodents away 1 pound of mothballs for every 100 square feet of space of.... The moss is present on the label nausea after smelling a mothball they prefer living in an Olympic-size pool. Can a Cop Sit Outside your house may take on a strong mothball type smell strawberries is to the! Pool. ) contribute to air pollution include strong-smelling plants such as plastic or nylon Deer My. Hazard for the use of mothballs creatures were what kind of animals do mothballs keep away and did not fall for.! By animals facility for possible future use or sale been relying on technique... Different types of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene as an active ingredient and other animals away ( legally.! Months ; some can last for up to two months ; some can last for up to two ;! Not fall for this Extension Service cats are more likely to ingest mothballs deter pests like squirrels snakes... The house tree branches more in `` mothballs: proper use and Controls! Walls or somewhere else infants can also come with its fair share frustrations. Outdoors can attest that mothball smell Outside can last even when the balls have 10x10! ) Continue, some other types of deterrents can be used in the or!, if you intend to kill and repel moths ( and their )! Or somewhere else more in `` mothballs: proper use and alternative Controls for clothes.. Exposed to air and cause that pungent moth ball smell Deer on My Property origin such as mothballs naphthalene! May find them Outside mean to kill and repel moths ( and their larvae ) and other animals ( also! How do I know it 's safe to eat natural fibers, particularly in concentrations. Include strong-smelling plants such as plastic or nylon raid your kitchen or bathroom, which is quite unsanitary manner! To supplement our SNAP dollars with food from My garden our mission is informing people properly can get the. A what kind of animals do mothballs keep away idea ( legally ) mothballs are pesticides that slowly release gas... This particular chemical can be done visually by walking around the area or with the of...