Why Traditional Mothballs are Problematic
For over a century, regular mothballs infused with nasty chemicals have been the go-to solution for keeping moths and other insects away from treasured clothing and textiles. Traditionally, mothballs contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene (PDB).
While these synthesized pesticides are highly effective, they come at a huge cost in terms of environmental impact and human health. Here’s a quick look at some of the major issues with old-school chemical mothballs:
Toxicity – Exposure to mothball fumes, especially long-term, poses significant health risks. Headaches, breathing issues, nausea and liver/kidney damage are possible. Carcinogenic effects are also a concern.
Harmful Vapours – The strong mothball odour comes from toxic chemicals evaporating into the air. These vapours linger in and around the home.
Environmental Contamination – Chemical residues collect in soil, water and air, damaging ecosystems. They persist in nature for years.
Hazardous to Wildlife & Pets – Broad spectrum pesticides kill beneficial bugs like bees and butterflies. Pets are also vulnerable to toxicity issues.
**Made from Petrochemicals **– PDB, naphthalene, and other chemicals come from fossil fuel processing and refining. More pollution and resource depletion.
Not Eco-Friendly or Sustainable – Traditional mothballs are the antithesis of green, organic products. They persistently damage the natural world.
With growing awareness of these impacts, eco-conscious households are seeking out alternatives like red cedar moth balls.
Why Red Cedar Moth Balls are the Green Option
Natural red cedar moth balls provide effective moth prevention without any of the worrying downsides of old chemical versions. Red cedar balls use safe, plant-based essential oils to safely drive moths away instead of synthetic toxins. Here’s a look at some key reasons why red cedar balls align with green living:
100% Natural & Biodegradable – Cedar balls are simply cut from red cedar timber. They biodegrade rapidly when finished without leaving contamination behind.
Pleasant, Subtle Aroma – Instead of harsh chemical fumes, you get a lighter, natural woodsy scent from cedar oil vapours.
Non-Toxic & Safe – Cedar moth balls contain no hazardous chemicals or pesticides. Fumes pose no health or environmental risks.
Sustainably Harvested Cedar – Red cedar is fast-growing and abundant. Responsibly harvested from managed forests.
Prevents Destructive Pests Naturally – Harnesses plant-based cedar oil instead of chemical pesticides that harm ecosystems.
Supports Local Artisans & Businesses – Buying cedar balls supports small craftsmen and women, not major chemical companies.
Protects Clothing Without Harm – Cedar fumes won’t degrade or stain fabric like chemical residues.
Long Lasting – With occasional restoration, cedar balls provide years of moth protection from just a one-time purchase.
Ethical Sourcing – Cedar is harvested in North America under sustainability practices, not overseas sweatshops.
Carbon-Smart Choice – Locally sourced cedar has a minuscule carbon footprint compared to mothballs laden with petrochemicals.
With advantages like these, it’s easy to see why green-conscious households now turn to red cedar moth balls as a chemical-free, eco-friendly alternative.
Additional Eco-Friendly Uses for Red Cedar
Aside from moth prevention, red cedar wood has a number of other purposes that make it a versatile choice for environmentally-minded homes. Here are some additional ways to utilize red cedar’s eco-friendly properties:
Natural Rodent & Insect Repellent – Strategically place cedar blocks, shavings or essential oil to deter ants, moths, mice and other pests.
Use as a Fire Starter - Cedar’s natural oils help fire pits and wood stoves ignite easily and burn cleanly.
Muscle Relaxation - Cedar oil soothes sore muscles when added to massage oils or baths. Reduce painkiller usage.
Crafts & Furnishings – Upcycle scrap cedar pieces into unique art, furniture or shelving that lasts for decades.
Aromatherapy & Air Freshening – Add cedar boards or diluted oil to naturally scent musty crawl spaces, closets, bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Gardening – Interplant cedar trees to attract predatory bugs that protect crops from pests. Use cedar mulch to enrich soil.
Pet Bedding – Cedar chips or shavings make a cozy, odour-reducing filler for small animal habitats and litter boxes.
Hiking Sticks – Fallen cedar branches make ideal hand-carved walking sticks that are naturally water-resistant and insect repellent.
Get creative with red cedar projects to make the most of this versatile, renewable resource in your home and life. Every little bit helps our planet!
Embracing Sustainability in Your Own Life
Green living is really about making small, thoughtful choices that collectively have an enormous positive impact. Opting for something as simple as red cedar moth balls over chemical versions keeps pounds of toxic pesticides out of the environment annually.
Likewise, cutting down on plastic waste, reducing energy use, buying local organic food, composting, and recycling may seem minor on their own, but combined they create meaningful change. Don’t underestimate your own ability to make a difference!
Here are some suggested easy ways you can embrace sustainability in your own life:
At Home
- Switch out toxic cleaners and chemicals for natural, plant-based options
- Install smart power strips to cut standby energy waste
- Use cold water for laundry to save electricity
- Turn off faucets while brushing teeth, washing dishes, etc.
- Open windows instead of blasting AC on mild days
- Unplug devices and electronics when not in use
- Take shorter showers to conserve hot water
In Your Community
- Frequent farmer’s markets to support local agriculture
- Donate unused clothes/goods to charities instead of landfills
- Carpool or use public transportation to cut emissions
- Volunteer for neighbourhood sustainability initiatives
- Help with community gardens and composting
At Work
- Send documents digitally instead of printing
- Bring reusable dishes and cutlery instead of disposables
- Drink refillable beverages instead of bottled drinks
- Opt for teleconferences instead of gas-guzzling business trips
- Power down equipment when not working
- Print double-sided and use scrap paper
For Fun
- Instead of driving, take biking or walking adventures
- Have picnics/potlucks instead of restaurant meals
- Be creative finding free local entertainment like festivals, museums, and parks
- Host game nights or potlucks instead of energy-wasting events
- Go camping and enjoy nature instead of faraway vacations
Don’t be overwhelmed or try to tackle everything at once. Just focus on a few changes at a time that fit your life. The path to sustainability is different for everyone. With some mindful effort, we can collectively protect the planet for future generations.
The next time you see those dusty old chemical mothballs in your closet, see them as an opportunity to make a small step towards greener living. Give red cedar moth balls a try - your home and the environment will thank you!
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