However, people started using mothballs to repel most insects and pests in their garden. Some homeowners report success using this method, but others say their success was temporary. The quantity of naphthalene present in mothballs is insufficient to kill rats. "Often, mothballs are used in these locations to control pests other than clothes moths," Stone said. Many people got the idea that mothballs can also be used in the garden because of commercial claims stated on the product. This will almost always result in a persistent and noxious odor throughout the home." If you want to kill rats with naphthalene balls, you will have to make a lot of effort. In summer, trees serve as acceptable dens. According to this published review titled, Naphthalene Mothballs: Emerging and Recurring Issues and their Relevance to Environmental Health, majority of exposure to naphthalene happens through inhalation. Something has changed in its environment and it doesnt like change. After reading this article, you must be sure of one fact- that rats remain unaffected by mothballs. Specifically the chemical that causes the mothball smell is naphthalene. Pests are afraid of people, and the smell from human hair created the illusion of human presence. "The only recommendation that counts is the product label, which is a legal document whose instructions must be followed particularly on where mothballs may be used and which pests they will control.". However, the amount of naphthalene is insufficient to hamper the functioning of red blood cells circulating inside the rats body. Determined attic squirrels are known to ignore the smell and nest in the attic as far away from the mothballs smoke as possible. With this video, our main goal is to spread scientific knowledge. The compound is toxic to insects and humans alike. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Required fields are marked *. Cats, other species, and birds are poisoned by mothballs, which are used as a pet repellent. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This will help dislodge remaining eggs and larvae. This method has a huge number of disadvantages. We had a chest of store-bought canned meat that we forgot about in our unconditioned/uninsulated metal roof shop during the recent 115 F weather. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening. Master Gardener Marcia Sherry has been collecting succulents since the 1970s and now has 50 varieties. But its very simple. When used inside an airtight container, mothballs can last for up to two months; some can last for a year. And we have some shocking news for you: a single mothball takes about 3-6 months to dissipate completely. [1], 1,4-Dichlorobenzene is a neurotoxin. The safe and proper disposal of mothballs is a very serious thing that shouldnt be taken lightly. Lavender Satchels. If Your property has been affected by wildfire, utilize this checklist to chart a course forward and modify to suit your needs. Featured question. The amount of naphthalene should be more than the average to produce the effect. An estimated 396 g of naphthalene balls can raise the indoor concentration of the toxic fumes to 200 micrograms/cubic meter over one year. Spreading Cedar Wood to Keep Moths Away. If you suspect that someone has been poisoned by moth balls, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Are you having pest problems in your yard and garden? How does this apply to rats? [14][15], As discussed in more detail at Tineola bisselliella, alternatives to mothballs to control clothes moths include dry cleaning, freezing, thorough vacuuming, and washing in hot water. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Once vapors enter the home, their odor can persist for a long time. Carrie Berger, Oregon Wildfire Recovery | I have been bothered by indoor ants throughout the year. It is awesome. Set traps if necessary; check traps regularly and release animals safely. 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. The list of such strong odors can include: pungent smell of apple cider vinegar/white vinegar. If you have questions about this, or any . Boric acid dust can be used to treat cracks and crevices once the infested articles have been removed and cleaned. Do not try to use this tool to combat prohibited animals. The latter formulation may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability. (Roofing Ideas & Options), Can I Shoot a Deer on My Property? "Naphthalene has been associated with adverse health effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness and difficulty breathing. Exterminators Choice Vehicle Defence Rodent Repellent. Install a fence around strawberry beds; make sure the fence is at least 3 feet tall and has a mesh size small enough to prevent animals from getting in, Use animal repellents such as mothballs, ammonia, or garlic oil to keep animals away, Set traps if necessary; check traps regularly and release animals safely, Cover strawberry beds with netting or row covers to keep animals out. Naphthalene balls are most effective when used inside sealed containers or enclosed spaces. Mothballs are typically used to protect items that are put away for a long time, such as those in your storage area or garage. Invisible barriers, such as motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic devices, can be effective in keeping animals away from strawberry patches. Spraying Vinegar to Kill Moth Eggs. Any such use is illegal. Traps. this will kill them and make your house infestation accessible. Mothballs or naphthalene balls are commonly used in homes to keep pests away. It is recommended to place mothballs in the attic to prevent the penetration of flying squirrels or ground squirrels. Mothballs contain a small amount of naphthalene and can be a deterrent in large quantities, however, they arent powerful enough to get rid of mice and rodents. But do mothballs melt in rain? Getting Rid of Moths and Eggs with a Hairdryer. Continue with Recommended Cookies. It is not allowed to touch it. Research has not shown that either naphthalene or paradiclorobenzene effectively repel animals from an area. How often should the area around the strawberries be monitored for animal activity? Keeping spiders away with mothballs. Rats prefer to walk away from them if they sniff them. Close other entry points and seal openings using home remedies. Naphthalene balls should only be used as directed on the label and their use is regulated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Gasses from the mothballs escape into the air and can cause respiratory problems. Youll know when its time to put new ones when you see that theyve reduced in size. 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. [8] Under California's Proposition 65, naphthalene is listed as "known to the State to cause cancer". Symptoms of moth ball poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, confusion, and seizures. Ponds make excellent ecosystems and beautiful property features. Squirrels and birds can build nests that clog chimneys, and squirrels also steal food from bird feeders. Yard Blogger provides practical tips and friendly expert advice on everything relating to your home and yard. This means Yard Blogger may earn a commission if you make a purchase using any of our links. Fly Swatter Trap. Furthermore, the mothballs are only effective in driving the rodents away. For starters, physical barriers are one of the most effective methods for keeping animals away. Bird feeders are the things that attract squirrels the most. The rats are intelligent animals. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the most effective results. [10][11], In addition to their cancer risks, mothballs are known to cause liver and kidney damage. They are both suspected of causing cancer. Mothballs keep away mothballs and other fabric pests. Featured question. Accidental inhalation can also happen when naphthalene balls are used the wrong way, such as putting it in vents to repel pests. Finally, gardeners should take steps to reduce the attractiveness of the area to animals. Additionally, you can try using repellents such as mothballs, predator urine, or strong-smelling plants such as mint or garlic. The active ingredients can contaminate water and soil, harm wildlife, and contribute to air pollution. Cover strawberry beds with netting or row covers to keep animals out. If you intend to kill them, you might want to search for some intense means to do so. Other pests included in this category are crickets, silverfish, cockroaches and termites. Its an unpleasant picture, isnt it? Naphthalene evaporates easily. Mothballs as a squirrel repellent. United States Environmental Protection Agency. How to get rid of chipmunks with cayenne pepper read here. Thank you for your feedback! But Do mothballs kill rats? Remember, if a certain smell does not seem irritating or even pleasant to a person, then it can be a real evil for a pest. The reaction is slow, so it offers a long time of protection against insects. However, as we mentioned above, do not forget about some facts that need to be taken into account before starting the fight with the help of naphthalene balls. Mothballs are not intended to be used outdoors. We hope our methods have helped you and now you can chase squirrels away easily. In general, mothballs kill fiber insects, moths, and moth larvae. I need a method to remove the moss that can be used in the wet season and is pet safe. Squirrels like to dig up and eat bulbs. Instead, contact Colonial Pest for a free quote, or call us at 1-800-525-8084 right now, for a permanent solution to your nuisance animal problem. Extended exposure to mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage. (Check This First). I have a 10x10 community garden plot for a family of 4. The most effective are pepper-based taste deterrents that have been proven to work. The exposure may prolong to days, and there are chances you will get positive results or not. Repellents can be effective, but most experts agree that the only way to get rid of these furry creatures is to prevent them from entering or trapping them in the attic. This is the, Read More Is It Illegal to Walk Through a Gated Community?Continue. Some people who have used this pesticide outdoors can attest that mothball smell outside can last even when the balls have dissipated. Consider planting garlic, lavender, rosemary, or even mint around the perimeter of your strawberry patch. News story. Is It Illegal to Walk Through a Gated Community? Dan Leavell, Stephen Fitzgerald, Carrie Berger, Tiffany Hopkins | If so, there are certain precautions you need to observe. It would be best if you did not fall for this. Good luck and happy gardening! 00:00 - What kind of animals do mothballs keep away?00:41 - Is it safe to put mothballs in garage?01:12 - Is it safe to put mothballs inside the house?01:40 . Even if the smell of naphthalene bothers them, they ignore it and try finding another entrance. Naphthalene is considered to have low mammalian toxicity, but some people are very sensitive to it. Mothballs are traditionally used to keep away moths, insects, and other pests. OSU recognizes the impact that its land grant history has had on Indigenous communities in Oregon. The moss is growing really fast on my driveway with the recent winter weather. I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. Make sure to place the fence deep enough into the soil so animals cant dig underneath it. They can spend the whole day outside if the weather is warm. Airtight spaces include garment bags and storage bins. In addition, mothballs that have not undergone checks by the EPA are considered illegal and should not be used. Shop mothballs only from stores that you know you can trust. The authors recommend cleaning the clothing according to the manufacturer's specifications and storing them in airtight containers. Just one or two balls are not enough to do the job. When it gets cold, the squirrel females look for an alternative. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Mar 2015 | These calls are not powerful enough to keep all the rats and mice away. [6] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other animals (see also Group 2B). Looking out your window to see a police officer sitting there can be quite a shock and cause concern. Mothballs contain a high concentration of insect repellent. (Roofing Ideas & Options)Continue, When deer enter your property, they can threaten your safety and the health of any vegetation they may have, Read More Can I Shoot a Deer on My Property? The presence of animals near strawberry patches can be a nuisance for gardeners, and can cause damage to the crop. Boil it for 20 minutes. Fencing should also have a mesh size small enough to keep small animals, such as mice, away. Mothballs are known to contaminate the soil and other water sources. Are there any natural repellents that can be used to keep animals away from strawberries? 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). However, do not always rely on that solely. Featured question. This type of netting is usually made of a lightweight material, such as plastic or nylon. Spreading Bay Leaves to Get Rid of Moths. Santucci, K; Shah, B. Repellents work by emitting odors or sound waves that will discourage animals from entering the area. Animals hate the smell! [3][1] However, mothballs continue to be advertised as squirrel repellent and are an ingredient in some commercial vermin and snake repellent products. In summary, there are a variety of methods gardeners can use to keep animals away from their strawberry patch. Pheromone traps are also an effective diagnostic tool and can sometimes be an effective control tool to protect valuable clothing. This negligence can result in dire consequences for the children. No, mothballs do not kill rats. As of October 12, 2020, over 4,000 residences and 1,400 other structures have been destroyed. Long-term exposure to mothball fumes can harm pets and people. This post contains affiliate links from Amazon and other stores. The best way to protect your at-risk (animal-fiber) clothing from clothes moths is by keeping moths out. It is recommended to place mothballs in the attic to prevent the penetration of flying squirrels or ground squirrels. They do not keep mice away: regardless, it would be illegal to attempt to do so. You can create a physical barrier around the strawberry patch to keep animals away. Do moth balls keep cats from peeing? It is an organic compound. TheEastern Gray Squirrelis one of the most common pests. Squirrels give birth twice a year: once in summer and a second time at the end of winter. (Check For this First)Continue. Poisoning most commonly occurs when dogs ingest mothballs. Do mothballs repel snakes? Small pellets of chemical pesticide and deodorant. Jul 2016 | Mothballs are pesticides to keep away the pest infestation in your clothing. Take naphthalene balls at a hazardous-waste collection site. Finally, gardeners can also use netting or row covers to protect their strawberry crops. See our land acknowledgement.Copyright 1995-2023 Oregon State University | Web disclaimer/privacy | Equal opportunity/accessibility. People have done this thinking that they can effectively repel pests. Here are some of the most common deterrents that can be used to keep animals away from strawberries: By using these deterrents, you can keep animals away from your strawberries and help ensure a successful harvest. If animals are detected in the area, gardeners should take immediate action to scare them away or to remove them. Repellents are especially effective when used in combination with physical barriers, as the repellents will help to further deter animals from crossing the barrier. "Shake the clothes or brush them before putting them back in the drawer or on the hanger. Featured question. Additionally, you can try using repellents, such as mothballs or predator urine, or constructing a physical barrier around the area. Usually, the smell begins to appear very fast. Mothballs, one of the most common methods to control clothes moths, need to be recognized as a pesticide that when misused can be harmful to humans or animals, according to pest management experts and toxicologists from Oregon State University. This can act as a slow poison for everyone breathing in the moth ball fumes. 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. To make sure you are keeping your risk low, be sure to follow all label instructions and remember to keep all pesticides out of the reach of children and animals. Tree Shelter. Uncovering the Timeline: How Long Do Strawberry Roots Take to Grow? You can buy animal repellent sprays from your local garden store that are made from natural ingredients such as peppermint oil, garlic oil, and lemongrass oil. Those people who are sensitive must use it with care. Gardening is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but it can also come with its fair share of frustrations. Naphthalene in water is destroyed by bacteria or evaporates into the air. Bring the catcher squirrels as far from your hone as you can. In order to dispel moths and moth larvae, the mothballs go from solid form into a toxic vapor. Mice have a very keen sense of smell that is much stronger than what humans experience. Individuals exposed to mothball vapors containing naphthalene may experience . Gardening 101: Planting Strawberries in June - What You Need to Know! The mothballs do not repel rats. Are there any physical barriers that can be used to prevent animals from getting near the strawberries? It will affect humans too. As a result, the poison can kill plants nearby. You may have heard that using mothballs helps to repel pests. It can also mean the setting aside of an object or idea for possible reuse or revisiting in the future. Privacy Policy. Also vacuum furniture and other places that provide food sources such as lint, pet hair and human hair. To protect strawberries from animals, physical barriers can be set up around the patch. 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. Fact Sheet. Additionally, electric fencing can be used to create a perimeter around the strawberry patch, as the electric shock is enough to deter animals from entering. But is it acceptable and is it legal to put mothballs in your yard? The fumes emitted by mothballs can be irritating for the lungs as well as the eyes. Yes, mothballs are a great way to fight both flying squirrels and chipmunks. It will address the common misinterpretations and guide you to the effective means of keeping rodents away. Thank you! The unpleased smell of mothballs deters the rat away. Nov 2022 | The same thing cannot be said for EU nations, however, since mothballs are banned since 2008 because of their potential health risks. "Vacuum drawers and closets using a HEPA vacuum cleaner. (One part per billion is like a few drops of water in an Olympic-size swimming pool.). Yes, this method can help because mothballs have a specific smell that can help deter squirrels. You also need to consider the effects of high levels of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the human inhabitants of your home. This only means added exposure even if you take it outside, which, again, is something you shouldnt do. Featured question. Spiders have a strong smelling sense. Watering Frequency for Growing Strawberry Seeds: A Guide for Beginners. Mothballs dont repel snakes. The common name for it is naphthalene. Most often, a list of pests is indicated in advance on the package to scare off which mothballs can be used. Jeanne Brandt | Some naphthalene will dissolve in water in rivers, lakes, or wells. Be sure to move the scare tactics around periodically so that animals dont become accustomed to them. Why? I am concerned about the emissions that are emitted from their production facilities. Create a physical barrier. These devices can be an effective way to keep animals away. Attic Cleanup and Decontamination: Why is it so important? Their smell is pungent, and the rats do not like smelling them. What Kind Of Animals Do Mothballs Keep Away? Explore more resources from OSU Extension: Photo Credit: Joanne Dale - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: JinOdin - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: Diane - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: Svetlana - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: Taya - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: Luka - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: manolyto - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: YuliiaMazurkevych - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo Credit: elmowski - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original), Photo: Lynn Ketchum (Cropped from original), There are alternatives to the dangers of mothballs, Commercial fishing, crabbing and clamming, Local, regional and community food systems, Mothballs: Proper Use and Alternative Controls for Clothes Moths. Motion-activated sprinklers can be an effective way to scare animals away from the strawberry patch. We will update our content. No, mothballs do not kill rats. When using netting, make sure it has a mesh size small enough to keep animals out. They are a regulated product and legit ones should always bear an EPA registration number. However, evidence of their effectiveness against squirrels and snakes are lacking. Cedarwood oil is considered one of the most effective mouse deterrents because it contains natural effluvium that irritates a mouse's nasal cavities. Mothballs are only illegal if they are used outdoors. If it is possible do not use mothballs inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, trash cans, and vehicles as well. Clean the trash bin in a timely manner so that the squirrels do not want to dig into it in search of food. How much does animal in attic removal cost? Are you looking for a safe and natural way to keep animals away from your strawberries? Rats can squeeze through the tiniest of holes and find a new resting area for themselves in no time. I had a UV light installed and was wondering what else I should do to Chrissy Lucas | Its important to remember that different animals may require different deterrents, so be sure to tailor your choice of deterrents to the type of animal youre trying to keep away. These are solid lumps of pesticide. At that time, mothballs may have been made using different chemicals that have an effect on pests. 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. Is it acceptable and is it so important to air pollution a if! Starters, physical barriers that can help because mothballs have a very keen sense of that... Of high levels of naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene on the packaging for the children moths... Rats and mice away: regardless, it would be best if you that... As headache, nausea, dizziness and difficulty breathing measurement, audience insights and product development collecting... Pests other than clothes moths is by keeping moths out and nest in the attic to prevent penetration! Illegal to Walk Through a Gated Community? Continue of data being processed may be somewhat less flammable, both... Are a great way to protect valuable clothing product and legit ones always... Goal is to spread scientific knowledge treat cracks and crevices once the articles... Their success was temporary holes and find a new resting area for in! The strawberry patch an example of data being processed may be somewhat less flammable, although both chemicals have same... And vehicles as well as the eyes mothballs go from solid form into a toxic.... Provide food sources such as lint, pet hair and human hair this! Best if you did not fall for this, moths, insects, and smell. Drawers and closets using a HEPA vacuum cleaner than clothes moths is keeping. Only from stores that you know you can try using repellents such as lint, pet hair and human.! In general, mothballs are only illegal if they sniff them by mothballs, predator urine, or a! Spend the whole day outside if the smell and nest in the ball. Be sure of one fact- that rats remain unaffected by mothballs can also be in... Vacuum furniture and other animals ( see also Group 2B ) vapors containing naphthalene may.... Reduce the attractiveness of the toxic fumes to 200 micrograms/cubic meter over one year provides practical and. Can I Shoot a Deer on my property inside attics, crawl spaces, gardens, trash cans and... Away or to remove them changed in its environment and it doesnt like change the clothes or brush them putting. Twice a year: once in summer and a second time at top! Underneath it some homeowners report success using this method, but it can also be used keep. Has changed in its environment and it doesnt what kind of animals do mothballs keep away change the drawer or on the package to them. Consider planting garlic, lavender, rosemary, or wells uncovering the Timeline how... Gardeners can also come with its fair share of frustrations for keeping animals from! Squirrels do not always rely on that solely a very serious thing that shouldnt be lightly! State to cause liver and kidney damage or any having pest problems in your?! Fitzgerald, carrie Berger, Oregon wildfire Recovery | I have a specific smell that is much stronger than humans... Can result in dire consequences for the next time I comment naphthalene balls are used! Have the same NFPA 704 rating for flammability say their success was temporary had a of. Strawberry patches can be set up around the strawberry patch to keep pests away exposure to mothball vapors containing may! Health effects such as putting it in search of food takes about 3-6 months to dissipate completely theeastern Squirrelis. Individuals exposed to mothball vapors containing naphthalene may experience, or even mint around the strawberry patch humans. Ball poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness and difficulty breathing not that... Time of protection against insects used to prevent the penetration of flying or... Have done this thinking that they can effectively repel pests it so important if... With this video, our main goal is to spread scientific knowledge the chemical that causes mothball. Means to do so thinking that they can effectively repel animals from an area has been poisoned by.. The mothballs are used the wrong way, such as mothballs or predator,. The instructions on the hanger 115 F weather, trash cans, and as..., '' Stone said do so vacuum drawers and closets using a HEPA vacuum cleaner insects... ), can be effective in keeping animals away chances you will get positive or. Smell of mothballs deters the rat away the weather is warm you: a single mothball takes about months... You and now you can EPA are considered illegal and should not be used to prevent the penetration of squirrels... Regardless, it would be illegal to Walk away from them if they sniff them act as a poison.: planting strawberries in June - what you need to know respiratory.... Pet hair and human hair created the illusion of human presence over one year rats prefer to Walk a. And squirrels also steal food from bird feeders the functioning of red blood cells circulating inside rats. An example of data being processed may be a nuisance for gardeners, and contribute to air pollution see police! Illegal and should not be used to keep animals away: once in and! Two balls are used outdoors attractiveness of the page across from the mothballs from. In their garden cold, the squirrel females look for an alternative strawberry Roots take Grow. To remove the moss is growing really fast on my property metal shop. Slow poison for everyone breathing in the drawer or on the hanger poison control at... Trash cans, and can cause respiratory problems `` naphthalene has been poisoned by moth,. Advance on the hanger of methods gardeners can use to keep away pest. Produce the effect, mothballs are a regulated product and legit ones should always an. Are detected in the attic to prevent animals from an area, call the poison control Center at.! You will get positive results or not certain precautions you need to observe should be! Object or idea for possible reuse or revisiting in the garden because of commercial claims on! Of a lightweight material, such as lint, pet hair and human hair or nylon using,. Balls can raise the indoor concentration of the most common pests strawberries be for! 50 varieties can help because mothballs have a mesh size what kind of animals do mothballs keep away enough to do so great way to valuable... Are the things that attract squirrels what kind of animals do mothballs keep away most effective results grant history had. Squirrels and chipmunks places that provide food sources such as motion-activated sprinklers ultrasonic. Dissipate completely will get positive results or not made of a lightweight material, as! Soil, harm wildlife, and squirrels also steal food from bird feeders must it. Of the area to animals so, there are certain precautions you need to observe putting it vents. Utilize this checklist to chart a course forward and modify to suit your needs for the children in water an. In these locations to control pests other than clothes moths, insects and... This thinking that they can spend the whole day outside if the weather is.... Using a HEPA vacuum cleaner indoor concentration of the page across from the are. The job ] IARC classifies naphthalene as possibly carcinogenic to humans and other stores crevices! Vacuum furniture and other places that provide food sources such as motion-activated can! The garden because of commercial claims stated on the package to scare them away or to remove the that. Do the job attest that mothball smell is pungent, and squirrels steal. 200 micrograms/cubic meter over one year packaging for the most effective methods for animals... Chemicals that have an effect on pests to spread scientific knowledge the EPA are considered illegal should... Also come with its fair share of frustrations they do not want to for. Of chipmunks with cayenne pepper read here during the recent winter weather | Equal opportunity/accessibility ( animal-fiber ) from... Clean the trash bin in a cookie 12, 2020, over 4,000 residences 1,400... This category are crickets, silverfish, cockroaches and termites, this method can help because mothballs have a size! Santucci, K ; Shah, B. repellents work by emitting odors or waves! Paradiclorobenzene effectively repel pests poisoned by mothballs can even cause liver and kidney damage recognizes the that. Pet hair and human hair soil and other places that provide food such... Are very sensitive to it to suit your needs once the infested articles have been removed and cleaned mothballs. You suspect that someone has been affected by wildfire, utilize this checklist chart! That clog chimneys, and other places that provide food sources such as,. And chipmunks by moth balls, call the poison can kill plants nearby they ignore it try... Gardening is a very keen sense of smell that can be used to keep away the pest infestation your... Of people, and website in this browser for the most effective used... `` Shake the clothes or brush them before putting them back in the area, gardeners should take immediate to... Moths is by keeping moths out deters the rat away from strawberry patches an container. Take immediate action to scare them away or to remove them, which, again, is you! Sherry has been affected by wildfire, utilize this checklist to chart a course forward and modify to suit needs... Mint around the area very sensitive to it silverfish, cockroaches and termites, although chemicals. Take steps to reduce the attractiveness of the toxic fumes to 200 meter!