Do Mothballs Get Rid Of Bats?

Somewhere along the way, bat prevention in houses got associated with mothballs. The pests dislike the smell of naphthalene, the active ingredient in mothballs. It is impractical to use them to keep bats away from houses and attics, though. First, the smell dissipates rapidly, meaning that homeowners will have to replace them to repel bats quite frequently. Next, the amount needed to produce enough odor is so large that it will waft into the living spaces of humans before being classified as useful repellent products. And lastly, studies have linked naphthalene, the active ingredient in moth balls, to diseases such as nasal cancer. Basically, it is a waste of time and effort, and can also be harmful to those living in the homes.

 

There is a device that promises, by emitting light or ultrasonic sound, to keep bats away electronically or ultrasonically. These can be costly and, over time, are usually ineffective methods. Aerosol repellent sprays for use against cats and dogs are also re-marketed to repel bats in houses. Typically, however, they are also inadequate. If you are plagued by a bat infestation, chances are, you are willing to try any of these removal methods or exclusion devices to get rid of them. A few of the “guaranteed” control products designed to keep bats away were probably tried, and they didn’t work. You’ve probably got them roosting in your attics or walls now. I’m sure you’ve had a group of well-meaning family, friends, and neighbors offer their favorite home remedies for spraying the nest with water, from hanging aluminum foil to Christmas lights at night time. A handful of mothballs and ammonia are two of the most popular ‘natural’ repellents that home remedy aficionados swear by. They don’t work here and are not an efficient method. More significantly, they are dangerous! First of all, moth balls are a mixture of poisonous chemicals, such as naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, designed to kill bugs (moths). When exposed to air, either of these chemicals can become a toxic gas. If it is hot, this property is enhanced.  

 

As well as causing extreme headaches, dizziness and nausea, these gases are irritants to the eyes, lungs, skin, and mucous membranes. Prolonged exposure to this pesticide can result in hemolytic anemia that damages your red blood cells or destroys them. There are studies that show that in children, these gases can damage DNA and cause cancer. Ammonia, if used properly, despite its pungent odors, is a fine cleaning agent, but prolonged exposure to airborne ammonia fumes causes the eyes, nose, and throat to burn.  

 

It can cause serious respiratory tract irritation and lead to more serious conditions, such as blindness, damage to your lungs, or even death. You don’t want anywhere around your house or your loved ones to use anything like these deadly agents. Don’t be fooled by attempts by amateurs to fix your problem. You need the experts in bat removal from houses. They will take a look at such things as bat guano, entry holes, their environment, roof, windows, cracks, and any openings to figure out where the source of the issue is and what can be done to protect your houses and the families inside them. Consult a professional animal removal service and let them deal with your infestation in a fast and professional way that won’t put you, the bats, or your home at risk. Remember: a “quick fix” is rarely a good solution, particularly if something as important as your family or home is involved.