Does Mothballs Kill Bed Bugs? A Simple Explanation

You might have heard stories about mothballs being able to kill bed bugs, so we decided to investigate this claim. We researched the question, “Does mothballs kill bed bugs?” and found some important information that you should know. Here’s what we discovered:

Can Mothballs Get Rid of Bed Bugs?

No, mothballs don’t get rid of bed bugs. They might kill a few, but not enough to make a difference if you have a bed bug infestation.

Mothballs and Bed Bugs

Moth balls can kill or keep away bugs that like to eat clothes, but they don’t work well against bed bugs. Researchers at Rutgers University tested two mothball products and found that after a week, less than 50% of the adult bed bugs were killed, and the mothballs didn’t affect the bed bug eggs much.

Using Mothballs Safely

Mothballs are toxic and can be dangerous. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label when using them. Mothballs are not meant for getting rid of bed bugs.

Can I put mothballs under my bed?

People often use moth balls to keep bugs away from their clothes. Some people put mothballs under or around their beds or between their mattress and box spring to keep bed bugs away. But the study at Rutgers University showed that this doesn’t work very well.

You should only use mothballs in closed containers, not in open spaces like closets, attics, mattresses, basements, storage chests, or garment bags. When mothballs are in open areas, their gases can get into the air and make it hard to breathe.

Mothballs as Pesticides

Does Mothballs Kill Bed Bugs? Mothballs help protect clothes made of natural fibers like wool from moths and silverfish. Use them as directed on the label. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates how mothballs are used. For more information, visit the National Pesticide Information Center’s website.

Mothball Chemicals & Side Effects

Mothballs are made from two harmful chemicals, naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene, which can be dangerous to people and pets. At room temperature, these chemicals are solid and can be shaped into balls, flakes, or cakes. Over time, they turn into a gas and release fumes into the air.

The chemicals in mothballs can hurt humans and animals if we breathe in the fumes. If you smell mothballs, that means you’re around these chemicals. Sometimes, kids or pets might think mothballs are food or candy and eat them, which can be very harmful.

Being around mothballs for a short time can cause headaches, upset stomachs, and make your eyes and nose irritated. It can also make you cough. Being around naphthalene, one of the chemicals in mothballs can lead to more serious problems like hemolytic anemia and might even cause cancer. Being around mothballs for a long time can also damage your liver and kidneys.

Conclusion: Do Mothballs Kill Bed Bugs?

No, mothballs cannot effectively kill bed bugs. They might get rid of a few, but not enough to solve the problem. Mothballs are meant to keep bugs away from clothes, not bed bugs. They can be dangerous because they are toxic and can make it hard to breathe. It’s important to only use them in closed containers. Mothballs have chemicals that can harm people and pets, causing headaches, upset stomachs, and damage to the liver and kidneys. So, it’s best not to use mothballs to try to get rid of bed bugs.