Use of Naphtha in the Household.
Naphtha has come to be a power in cleaning establishments, and to some extent in the household. Before giving any directions for its use, I want to state that this fluid is extremely dangerous unless ample precautions be taken; but with proper care there is not the slightest danger. Naphtha is very volatile, giving off a highly inflammable gas. It is dangerous even to have an uncorked bottle of it in a room where there is a light or fire. If, however, when naphtha is being used, the windows in the room be open and there be neither light nor fire, there will not be a particle of danger.
Soiled carpets and garments may be cleaned by sponging with naphtha. Buffalo bugs and moths can be destroyed with it. For stuffed furniture use naphtha freely. Put the article on the piazza and pour the fluid into it, being sure that every part is saturated. After a day or two, repeat the process, and I think you will find that both worms and eggs are destroyed. Still, it will be necessary to keep a close watch; for it is more difficult to destroy the eggs than the worms, and they may be hatched out after days, or even weeks, have passed. I know that if the naphtha be used again at this time the trouble will be at an end. Furs and woollen garments should be well beaten, and then saturated with naphtha. There is no danger in this generous use of the fluid out of doors; but in the house great care must be exercised. Windows should be opened, and there should be no light or fire in the room for several days, if naphtha has been used in large quantities.
When rugs or carpets are attacked, have two hot flat-irons ready. Wet with hot water the parts that are affected. Place several thicknesses of wet cloth over this, and apply the hot iron, which should stand there for at least ten minutes, that the steam may penetrate every part. When all is done, pour on naphtha; also, pour it about the edges of the carpet. Remember that wiping with naphtha has no effect; it must be a generous bath. Let me say again, that the danger from the fluid comes from the gas, and that the windows are to be opened, and no fire or light allowed in the room during the work, or for a few hours after it is done.
Bedbugs can be banished from a room with two or three applications of naphtha. Take the bed apart and dust it. Let the parts lie flat on the floor with the grooved sides up. Saturate the bed with naphtha, filling the grooves. Pour the fluid into the pillows and mattresses, wetting the seams and tuftings thoroughly. Spray any cracks there may be in the walls. If there be a carpet on the floor it will be well to give it a naphtha bath, to clean and brighten it. When all this is done, close the room, leaving the windows open. It should stand in this way for at least eight hours, that the gas may pass off. Should any bugs appear after this, repeat the operation. The second time will not fail.
When putting away furs, flannels, rugs, etc., have the articles well beaten. Put them in sheets, and wet with naphtha; then pin the sheets and put the articles away in boxes or drawers.