Mothball Exposure and Accidental Ingestion: Signs, First Aid Awareness & Safety Education (Canada)

Mothballs are commonly used to protect fabrics from pests. They may contain chemicals such as naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, both of which can be harmful if swallowed, inhaled, or handled in significant amounts. Accidental ingestion is most often reported among young children due to curiosity.

Relevance to Canadian homes & workplaces

Mothballs are found in homes, retail settings, shipping/storage areas, and textile-related workplaces. First aid awareness helps adults recognize potential exposure, respond calmly, and know when to involve emergency services or Poison Centres in Canada.

Scenario

A family storing winter clothing noticed a toddler holding a mothball and chewing. The product was removed, the child’s mouth was checked, and the caregiver called a Poison Centre for guidance. With prompt assessment and monitoring by health professionals, the child recovered without complications.

Signs and symptoms of mothball exposure

Symptoms may vary depending on the amount, the chemical involved, and the route of exposure.

1. Fatigue or weakness

Some mothballs can affect red blood cells, which may contribute to fatigue, reduced appetite, or irritability in children.

2. Pale or yellowish skin

Reduced red blood cell function can lead to pallor. In more significant exposures, mild yellowing of the skin or eyes may appear.

3. Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea

The body may try to eliminate swallowed material. Monitoring for dehydration is important, especially in children.

4. Breathing or eye irritation

Fumes may irritate the nose, throat, or eyes, causing coughing, watery eyes, or discomfort.

5. Longer-term concerns

Prolonged or repeated exposure (usually environmental rather than a single ingestion) can affect the blood, liver, or kidneys. Assessment by a health professional can help determine next steps.

Causes & mechanisms

Mothballs work by releasing vapours that repel pests. Risks increase when:

Products are stored in unventilated areas
Containers are within reach of children
Fabrics or materials are used without airing out
Workplaces use mothballs in bulk quantities
Pets or children mistake them for food or toys

Naphthalene-containing mothballs are more commonly associated with potential red blood cell damage.

First aid awareness & when to seek help

If ingestion or significant exposure is suspected:

Keep the product away from others, especially children and pets
Do not induce vomiting
Contact a Poison Centre or seek emergency medical care
Provide information, if available (product name, age/weight of child, time/exposure details)

Poison Centres can guide next steps and determine if emergency assessment is needed.

Assessment in the emergency setting

Health care providers may:

Monitor vital signs and symptoms
Check blood or urine as part of evaluation
Treat dehydration or gastrointestinal symptoms
Provide observation for effects on red blood cells, liver, or kidneys

Most cases improve with supportive care. Health professionals also advise on environmental cleanup or storage to prevent repeat exposure.

Prevention & workplace considerations

Safe storage and ventilation reduce risk:

Keep mothballs in sealed containers
Store out of reach of children and pets
Air out fabrics before use
Follow product instructions for storage areas
Replace with non-ingestible pest control options when feasible in workplaces
Train staff on chemical awareness and WHMIS principles where relevant

FAQ

Are mothballs dangerous if swallowed?
Yes, swallowing can lead to symptoms affecting the blood and digestive system. Children are at higher risk because of body size and curiosity.

Is inhaling mothball fumes harmful?
High vapour levels in poorly ventilated areas may irritate the respiratory tract or eyes and can contribute to systemic exposure over time.

Do all mothballs contain naphthalene?
No. Some contain paradichlorobenzene, which has different properties. Labels usually indicate the primary chemical.

What should parents or caregivers do if a child eats part of a mothball?
Immediate contact with a Poison Centre or health professional is recommended for guidance and monitoring.

How should mothballs be stored safely?
Store sealed, high, and out of reach of children or pets, ideally in labelled containers with good ventilation nearby.

Educational note

This information supports general first aid education and safety awareness. For suspected poisoning or significant exposure, guidance from Poison Centres or emergency professionals can help determine the appropriate response.