Are Mothballs a Safe Roach Control Option for Businesses?

When roaches show up in the breakroom, supply closet, or anywhere else they don’t belong, it’s tempting to reach for whatever’s on hand, including mothballs. They’re small, inexpensive, and have a reputation for driving pests away. But does that reputation hold up when it comes to cockroaches? For business owners managing facilities, retail spaces, or warehouses, knowing what works and what doesn’t can help protect your property, your team, and your compliance status. Let’s take a closer look at why mothballs fall short and explore smarter, safer strategies for pest control.

Mothballs are solid pesticide products made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, two active ingredients that vaporize slowly to release a strong, pungent odor. Originally designed to repel fabric pests like moths, they work best in sealed containers where vapors can concentrate without creating health hazards for people. 

There’s a persistent belief that mothballs repel cockroaches, but research and pest control experts say otherwise. While the intense smell might cause roaches to avoid an area temporarily, mothballs don’t address the root of the problem. They don’t kill roaches, disrupt their life cycle, or eliminate infestations.

Even Orkin, a leader in professional pest control, emphasizes that mothballs are not effective at repelling pests like rodents or roaches in open-air settings. They warn that improper use—such as placing them in crawl spaces, behind appliances, or near vents—can pose significant health and safety risks (source).

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) strictly regulates mothball use. According to the EPA, mothballs are only approved for enclosed spaces, like garment bags or storage containers. Using them in open areas, such as offices or kitchens, can:

• Violate federal law
• Expose workers and customers to toxic vapors
• Lead to symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and respiratory irritation

Business owners should avoid using mothballs as general pest deterrents to stay compliant with EPA regulations and maintain a safe workplace.

Safe, effective roach control starts with a multi-layered approach.

Sanitation and Prevention

• Eliminate food sources by cleaning up spills, crumbs, and grease.
• Store pantry and breakroom items in sealed containers.
• Repair leaks and dry out damp areas.

Seal Entry Points

• Close gaps around plumbing, baseboards, and vents.
• Use door sweeps and caulk to block access points.

Deploy Professional-Grade Solutions

• Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs): Prevent young roaches from maturing.
• Gel baits and bait stations: Kill colonies by targeting the source.
• Pest control professionals: For large-scale or recurring issues, licensed experts can apply EPA-approved products for targeted treatment.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to cockroaches, there’s no shortcut to effective pest control. Mothballs may seem like a convenient fix, but they aren’t designed or approved for roach control in open spaces. Worse, misusing them could create compliance headaches or health hazards. Instead, focus on proactive solutions: clean spaces, sealed entry points, proven baits, and, when needed, professional pest services. By staying informed and aligned with EPA guidelines, you’ll help keep your business safer, your property cleaner, and your team more protected.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions. Portions of this article were generated in part by ChatGPT, and edited by a member of the Zoro team.