This grandmother’s product with a very recognizable smell is today considered dangerous for health. It is banned for sale in several European countries but many homes still have it without really knowing the risks.
They look like simple little white balls stored in a cupboard. Many people have already seen them at their grandparents’ house without really asking any questions. However, this product, once widely used against moths and certain pests, is today considered particularly problematic for health. Its very strong odor, often associated with old linen, actually hides chemical vapors which can be harmful in a home, especially when rooms are poorly ventilated.
For a long time, these balls were used as a household repellent and insecticide. They were used to keep away moths, larvae, but also certain animals such as moles, field mice and even spiders. Placed in a wardrobe, chest of drawers or cupboard, they protected clothes and linens against damage caused by insects. Their effectiveness has largely contributed to their popularity for decades. But today, specialists instead recommend safer alternatives, such as lavender, thyme or eucalyptus essential oils, or even natural cedar balls.
Behind mothballs lies a chemical substance whose components gradually diffuse into the air. It is precisely these vapors that are the problem. In case of prolonged exposure, they can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness or irritation of the respiratory tract. Children and pets are particularly sensitive to it. Linen that has been stored with this product must also be washed before use in order to limit exposure to chemical residues.
The risks don’t stop there. Mothball is also classified as a suspected carcinogen. Large or repeated exposure can cause much more serious effects, including blood disorders such as hemolytic anemia. Contrary to popular belief, simply ventilating is not always enough to completely eliminate vapors accumulated in a room or in textiles stored for a long time. It is precisely for this reason that health authorities have gradually strengthened restrictions around this product.
Today, mothballs have been banned for sale for domestic use in France and the European Union for several years. Despite this, there are still old stocks left in some houses, cellars or attics. If you come across these famous white balls with a very strong smell, it is better to avoid handling them directly and especially not to use them in a living room. Between modern natural solutions and less aggressive moth repellent products, there are now much safer alternatives to protect your laundry without exposing the entire house to toxic substances.
