Do mothballs repel snakes? Moth balls are common old-time home remedy to keep snakes away, but this old wives' tale doesn't stand the test of science. Mothballs don't repel snakes. Snakes “smell” with their tongues, so methods like mothballs that rely on odors are unlikely to deter them.

Will mothballs repel snakes?

Mothballs are commonly thought to repel snakes, but they are not intended to be used this way and have little effect on snakes.

Does anything really keep snakes away?

Garlic and onions are thought to be one of the most effective ways to repel snakes because they contain sulfonic acid, the chemical that causes us to cry when we chop onions. You'll want to infuse some oil with garlic so the odor is really potent. You can use the spray in any area you want to repel snakes away from.