Is Moss Killer Toxic to Humans?

Moss killer products contain chemicals that can be toxic to humans if used improperly. However, with careful use and proper precautions, moss killers can be applied safely.

What Is Moss Killer?

• Moss killer, also called moss control, is a product used to remove moss from lawns, roofs, and other surfaces

• The active ingredients in moss killers include chemicals like ammonium sulfate, copper sulfate sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate iron sulfate, and zinc sulfate.

• Moss killers work by drying out and breaking down the plant cells in moss. This kills the moss so it turns brown and can be more easily removed.

Are Moss Killers Toxic?

• Many moss killer active ingredients are considered toxic especially if ingested. This includes copper sulfate, zinc sulfate and iron sulfate.

• Sodium carbonate peroxyhydrate is corrosive and can cause burns. Ammonium sulfate is considered slightly toxic.

• Moss killer product labels have warnings about toxicity and caution statements to keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Dangers of Exposure to Humans

• Ingestion: Swallowing moss killer chemicals can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other symptoms. Copper sulfate is very toxic if swallowed.

• Skin contact: Moss killers can irritate skin, cause rashes, and burn the skin. They may be absorbed through the skin.

• Eye contact: Moss killer chemicals can damage the eyes. Even small amounts splashed in the eyes must be rinsed out immediately with water.

• Inhalation: Breathing in moss killer mists or dust can irritate the nose, throat, and respiratory tract.

Using Moss Killer Safely Around Humans

• Read and follow all label directions for safe product use and handling.

• Wear protective gear like gloves, long sleeves, pants, shoes, socks and goggles. Avoid breathing spray mist.

• Keep people and pets away during application until dry.

• Use caution on windy days to prevent drift onto people. Apply only as directed.

• Wash hands thoroughly after using moss killer and before eating, smoking, etc.

• Store in original sealed container in a locked place away from children and pets.

First Aid for Moss Killer Exposure

• Ingestion: Drink water and call poison control or doctor immediately. Do not induce vomiting.

• Skin: Wash with soap and plenty of water. Call doctor if irritation persists.

• Eyes: Rinse opened eye with water for 15-20 minutes. Remove contacts. Call doctor.

• Inhaled: Move person to fresh air. Call doctor if symptoms develop or persist.

Alternatives to Chemical Moss Killers

Some non-toxic alternatives for moss removal include:

• Baking soda – kills moss by raising pH

• Vinegar – provides acid to lower moss pH

• Salt – draws moisture out of moss

• Hydrogen peroxide – breaks down moss cells

• Manual removal – sweep, rake, or scrub moss away

• Increase sunlight – trim trees/branches for less shade

• Improve drainage – redirect rainwater runoff

• Moss killer chemicals can be toxic to humans in concentrated forms. Always take safety precautions.

• With careful use as directed, moss killers can be applied appropriately around humans.

• Non-toxic methods like baking soda, vinegar and manual scrubbing can also remove moss effectively.

Proper handling and use of moss killers as well as integrating safer alternatives allows for moss removal while minimizing toxicity risks to humans.