Anyone who has had an infestation of moths knows what a pain they can really be. Several methods exist to help get rid of moths, but which ones are the safest and most effective?

Pest control and how to get rid of moths using mothballs and alternatives

Clothes Moths

Clothes moths can be a real and sometimes expensive pest. The larvae feed on wool, feathers, fur, hair, leather, lint, dust, paper, and occasionally cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic fibers. Most damage is done to articles left undisturbed for a long time, so moth balls have traditionally been used in stored containers together with the clothing or fabric to prevent them being damaged by these pests.

Damaged fabrics have holes eaten through them by small, white moth larvae. Moths are destructive during the larvae stage. Once grown the adult moths are harmless.

Moth balls are used to kill clothes moth larvae and thus control their spread.

Mothballs tend to have one of two active ingredients: dichlorobenzene or naphthalene. Both of these ingredients have a strong, pungent odor which repels and ultimately kills the moth larvae. To be effective, they need to be placed with the clothing in a sealed container so the fumes can build up and kill the moths. In a sealed atmosphere like this, the fumes are not harmful to people because they are contained. Once the container with the clothes and moth balls is carefully opened in a well ventilated place the clothes should be aired thoroughly before wearing them.

Potential dangers

Both naphthalene and paradichlorbenzene are volatile chemicals with potential health risks. They work by releasing a gas that ferments and grows stronger over time, and can be hazardess to humans and animals. They are especially toxic if digested, so be sure to keep them away from animals and children. It is wise to only use the mothballs in areas where your pets or young children will not be able to access them. It has also been discovered that mothball chemicals are carcinogens so it is essential that they be used according to the manufacturers instructions. As a registered pesticide they should be used according to the pesticide label instructions.

Cats and other household pets

It is not recommended to use mothballs in exposed areas outside for the reasons outlined above. If ingested by household pets, they will cause sickness sand sometimes even kill the animal.

Moth Ball Alternatives

A less toxic alternative is cedar or lavender blocks, shavings or oil. The blocks are expensive but a highly effective moth repellant, and are not dangerous. The odour of these alternatives is also much more pleasant.

Again, the container needs to be closed in order for the cedar scent to have a real effect on moths. Simply place a few balls in your wardrobes, airing cupboard, drawers or storage boxes to protect your clothes and linen. Companies such a Bouchard supply a range of moth ball products.

Moth traps can also be used such as the X Lure Moth Trap with a pheromone to attract the adult moths.

Pest Control Companies also have very effective methods at their disposal to eliminate most kinds of household infestations, including moths. If your problem persists it is worth calling some local companies to obtain a quote and rid yourself of these inconvenient pests.