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How long does the smell of mothballs last outside?
Though the mothballs themselves will sublimate (turn into gas) over four to six weeks, the smell can linger for years on end if action isn’t taken to remove it from the air, clothing, and furniture. How do you use moth balls outside?
What happens if mothballs get wet?
Wet mothballs are even more potent than dry ones. And the wetness can be profound, like exposure to water from a flood or leaky pipe, or mild, in the form of high humidity. Either will cause the odor to be more potent and sublimation to be more rapid.
Why do you put mothballs outside?
While mothballs are meant to keep moths away from clothing, wool blankets and similar stored goods, some people have used them to keep animals away from gardens or even out of the attic. Mothballs contain chemicals that may be toxic to animals or children who may find them outside.
Can the smell of mothballs hurt you?
The chemicals in mothballs are toxic to humans and pets. People are exposed to the chemicals in mothballs by inhaling the fumes. Some of the chemicals in mothballs can cause reversible health effects that include headaches, nausea, eye and nose irritation and coughing.
How long do mothballs last in the air?
When used inside an airtight container, mothballs can last for up to two months; some can last for a year. You’ll know when it’s time to put new ones when you see that they’ve reduced in size. The rate at which mothballs dissolve will still depend on the environmental conditions and the temperature of the area where it is placed.
Why do moth balls disappear from Your House?
Mothballs disappear over time because of sublimation. They are a toxic pesticide that should be handled with the utmost care. You can eliminate mothball odors by using deodorizers, vinegar, or charcoal. It is irresponsible and unsafe to use mothballs in an open living space or outdoors in a non-controlled environment.
Is it OK to put mothballs in the rain?
The rate at which mothballs dissolve will still depend on the environmental conditions and the temperature of the area where it is placed. They tend to “melt” faster when placed in humid or hot temperatures and can last longer if placed in the cold. But do mothballs melt in rain? No, technically they don’t because of their chemistry.
What kind of moth ball do you use?
As far as I recall, mothballs are either naphthalene or para-dichlorobenzene. I used the para-dichlorobenzene type to control wax moths in extra beekeeping equipment, and didn’t use napthalene for that. It could make a difference as to the type of mothballs you are talking about.