Keeping naphthalene balls in the cupboard can be heavy, adopt these natural alternatives to keep clothes safe…

Lifestyle Desk – Naphthalene balls have been used for a long time to protect the clothes kept in the cupboards of the house from insects, mould, bad smell and moisture. For many people, this is considered an easy and cheap solution, but these small pills can have negative effects on health. Continuous exposure to these can be harmful especially for children, elderly and people suffering from respiratory problems. Let us know how they cause harm and what can be their natural alternatives.

Why can naphthalene balls be harmful?

Naphthalene balls contain such chemical elements which slowly dissolve in the air in the form of gas. This gas works to protect clothes from insects, but being in contact with it for a long time can have many side effects on the body. The smell of naphthalene can reach the body through breath and affect the respiratory system. This can increase cough, difficulty in breathing, throat irritation and asthma symptoms. Some people may also experience problems like headache, dizziness and nausea.

May also affect skin and eyes

If naphthalene balls come in direct contact with clothes and the same clothes are worn without washing, people with sensitive skin may suffer from itching, red rashes and allergies. Apart from this, its strong smell can also cause problems like irritation and watering of eyes.

More danger to children and pets

Naphthalene balls often come in the form of small tablets, which children or pets may mistake for edibles. If this happens, serious health problems can arise. Therefore, keeping them in an open place in the house is not considered safe at all.

Adopt natural solutions to keep clothes safe

If you want to protect your clothes from insects and moisture, there are many natural and safe options available.

neem leaves

Keeping dry neem leaves in the cupboard keeps insects away. Neem has natural antibacterial and insect-repellent properties, which help in keeping clothes safe.

cloves and bay leaves

The fragrance of cloves and bay leaves keeps many types of insects away from the cupboard. These can be filled in small cloth pouches and kept between clothes.

lavender or camphor

Keeping dried lavender flowers or camphor cakes in the cupboard keeps the clothes fresh and does not smell bad. However, camphor should also be used in limited quantity and the cupboard should be kept open from time to time.

silica gel packets

Silica gel packets are very useful for protecting against moisture. They absorb excess moisture, which reduces the problem of mold and odor.

Cleaning the cupboard is also important

Just adopting anti-pest measures is not enough. It is also very important to clean the cupboard regularly, apply sunlight and keep the clothes completely dry. Insects and fungus often grow due to moisture and dirt. Instead of naphthalene balls, it is better to adopt natural and safe alternatives. Due to this, clothes also remain safe and there is no risk to the health of the family.