Can you eat mothballs?
Quick Answer
No
Mothballs are not safe to eat. They contain chemicals that are toxic to humans and animals.
What Is It?
Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticide and deodorant, often used when storing clothing and other articles susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae.
Why It Can Be Risky
Ingesting mothballs can lead to serious health risks.
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Severe anemia
- Kidney and liver damage
- Coma or even death in severe cases
Safe Alternatives
There are safer alternatives to mothballs, such as cedar chips, lavender sachets, or airtight containers for storage.
Storage Tips
Mothballs should be stored in a secure, childproof container and kept out of reach of children and pets.