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The Facts about Mothballs

Brett Bultemeier
Other Contacts: Tyler Newberry andAmy Solis


Release Date: 9/23/2026

DOI: 10.32473/EDIS-pi289-2021

Agriculture

Abstract

Although many people are familiar with the sight and smell of mothballs, very few give much thought on how they should and should not be used. Mothballs can be effective at repelling certain insects within the home, but it is important to use them properly. Because they are used within the home and commonly considered a household product, users often fail to read the directions or take these products seriously. The purpose of this document is to provide the public with definitions and instructions for proper usage of mothballs.

About this Publication

This document is PI289, one of a series of the UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office. It replaces PI254, The Facts about Mothballs, by Fred Fishel. Original publication date February 2021. Revised September 2026. Visit the Ask IFAS website at https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/ for the currently supported version of this publication.

How to Cite

Bultemeier, B. (2021). The Facts about Mothballs. EDIS, 2021(1). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-pi289-2021

Authors

Brett Bultemeier
Brett Bultemeier
Specialist
University of Florida

director, UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office; and Extension associate professor, weed science and invasive plants, Department of Agronomy, Gainesville, FL

Contacts

Tyler Newberry
Tyler Newberry
Specialist
University of Florida

Extension program specialist, UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office, Gainesville, FL

Amy Solis
Amy Solis
staff
University of Florida

Extension program manager, UF/IFAS Pesticide Information Office, Gainesville, FL

Publication #PI289

Peer Reviewed

Disclaimers

The use of trade names in this publication is solely for the purpose of providing specific information. UF/IFAS does not guarantee or warranty the products named, and references to them in this publication do not signify our approval to the exclusion of other products of suitable composition.

Use pesticides safely. Read and follow directions on the manufacturer's label.