What Are Mothballs? Are They Safe?

Because mothballs are generally used when one is storing their clothing for a season, the term "mothball" has been adapted in the business world as well. When an operation or project is suspended or placed on hold for a period of time for whatever reason it is called mothballed.

It is the fumes of the mothball that is beneficial in killing the moth larvae that take up residence in ones clothing. When mothballs are placed in a sealed container along with clothes these fumes will then build up to high levels. When one opens a container and takes out clothing that has been stored, they should always take time to air the items out before wearing them. It is a good idea to hang these items outside for a period of time to achieve a through airing of the material.

Mothballs are toxic and they should not be open to animals or children to accidentally get into them. A mothball is made with naphthalene that is a toxic material. Some side affects in humans from contact with mothballs are, vomiting, jaundice, bloody urine, and the death of the body's red blood cells. Children and babies should not come in contact with clothing that has been stored with or exposed to mothballs as this can cause hemolytic anemia.

The shape of a mothball is rather appealing to small children, as they look somewhat like candy. However, if a child ingests parts of mothballs this can be fatal and if this should happen it is imperative that one seek medical treatment immediately.

Some teens use mothballs as an inhaler to get a high. This is vary alarming and as serious situation. When one inhales mothballs, a great health risk to their health is present. Some symptoms of mothball inhalation are unbalanced walking, mental slowness, and rashes on the skin. The inhalation of mothball fumes can lead to hospitalization with nerve damage.