how much exposure to mothballs is dangerous

Exposure to mothballs can be dangerous due to their toxic chemicals, primarily naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. Even small doses of inhaled mothball vapors over time can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, respiratory and eye irritation, and coughing. Prolonged exposure can lead to more severe health issues like hemolytic anemia (especially in people with G6PD deficiency), liver and kidney damage, and skin irritation. Additionally, mothball chemicals are considered possible carcinogens, posing a cancer risk with long-term exposure. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets a permissible exposure limit (PEL) for naphthalene at 10 parts per million (ppm) in the air, while the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has established a much higher immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) level at 250 ppm. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR) has a minimum risk level for chronic inhalation exposure at 0.0007 ppm. Exposures above these levels increase health risks significantly. Mothballs should only be used as directed—inside tightly closed containers with clothing or materials needing protection—and not placed in open spaces like closets or basements where vapors can accumulate, creating dangerous indoor air quality. Children and pets are especially vulnerable to mothball exposure because they are more likely to inhale concentrated vapors near the floor and may accidentally ingest mothballs, which can cause poisoning. In summary, dangerous exposure occurs with inhalation of mothball vapors at levels higher than 0.0007 ppm chronically, or acute exposures approaching or exceeding OSHA’s 10 ppm PEL. Use caution and follow label instructions carefully to avoid harmful exposure.