What Exactly Are Naphthalene Balls?
Naphthalene balls, often called mothballs, are small white spheres made of the chemical naphthalene, a hydrocarbon derived from coal tar or petroleum. Their function relies on a process called sublimation, where the solid ball turns directly into a gas
without becoming a liquid first. This vapour fills enclosed spaces, acting as a fumigant that is toxic to moth larvae and other insects, which is how it protects fabrics. When a naphthalene ball disappears over time, it hasn't simply dissolved; its entire mass has become an invisible gas in the surrounding air.
A Closer Look at Household Habits
In India, the use of naphthalene balls is widespread and often casual. They are tossed into steel almirahs, packed in trunks with seasonal wear, placed in bathroom corners to mask odours, and even put in kitchen sinks. The belief is that their strong smell is a sign of their effectiveness. However, this casual use in open or poorly ventilated areas is where the problem begins. The very vapour that kills pests can also be inhaled by people, and its chemical residue can settle on clothes and other surfaces. This leads to continuous, low-level exposure for the home's inhabitants.
The Unspoken Health Risks
While effective as a pesticide, naphthalene is not harmless to humans. Health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have classified naphthalene as a possible human carcinogen, based on animal studies. Short-term exposure to the fumes can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, and irritation of the eyes and throat. The most severe risk is haemolytic anaemia, a condition where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made. This is particularly dangerous for young children and individuals with a genetic condition called G6PD deficiency, which is not uncommon in India. For those with G6PD deficiency, even small amounts of naphthalene can trigger a severe reaction. Accidental ingestion by children, who might mistake the balls for candy, is a medical emergency.
Myth: The Stronger the Smell, the Better
Many people associate the potent smell of naphthalene balls with cleanliness and protection. However, if you can smell the mothballs, it means you are inhaling the pesticide. The odour is the chemical vapour itself, and its presence indicates that you are being exposed. The effectiveness of naphthalene balls relies on the vapour concentrating in a sealed, airtight container. Placing them in open closets or drawers allows the toxic fumes to circulate throughout your living space, posing a risk to your health while being less effective against pests.
Safer, Natural Alternatives for Your Home
Fortunately, protecting your clothes and keeping your home fresh doesn't require toxic chemicals. Several natural and safe alternatives are highly effective. Cedar wood blocks or chips are a classic choice; their natural oils repel moths and leave a pleasant, fresh scent. Sachets filled with dried lavender, cloves, rosemary, or mint also work wonders. These herbs and spices have aromas that are pleasant to us but act as natural deterrents for insects. For deodorising bathrooms and other spaces, bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal are excellent at absorbing odours without releasing harmful fumes.
Using Naphthalene Balls Safely, If You Must
If you still choose to use naphthalene balls, it is crucial to do so with extreme caution. The only recommended way is to place them in a completely sealed, airtight container or bag along with the clothes you want to protect. This contains the fumes, maximizing their effect on pests while preventing the vapour from escaping into your home. Never place them directly on fabrics, as this can cause stains, and always keep them far out of the reach of children and pets. Before wearing any clothes stored this way, it's essential to air them out thoroughly, preferably outdoors.
