Mothballs have long been an effective defense against moths and other insects, but they usually leave an unwelcome relic: a strong, lingering odor. If you’ve opened a bin or closet and were greeted with the unmistakable scent of mothballs, you’re not alone. There are a lot of people who seek solutions to this problem. Knowing how to eliminate mothball scent requires understanding some basic information about the causes of it and how it adheres to different surfaces.
Mothballs are typically made up of chemicals like paradichlorobenzene and naphthalene. The chemicals sublimate over time that is, they transform from solid to gas emitting vapors that effectively repel insects. However, the vapors can seep through carpets, fabrics wood and eventually into the air.
Find out how to remove the smell of mothballs from your clothes and the home. Your items will be fresh and comfortable.
How to Remove Mothball scent out of clothing
Clothes absorb mothball odors very quickly, and getting rid of the smell can be a bit of a procedure. But the good news is that with a little patience and the right strategies, you can revive your garments.
Air It Out: The easiest first step is to hang your clothes outdoors. Fresh air and sunshine can do wonders. UV rays from the sun help break down the chemical compounds in the vapors. If possible, leave the clothing outside for a few hours or for a few days.
Baking soda soak If drying the clothing out doesn’t remove the smell completely, try making a solution made of warm water with baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve 1 cup baking powder in an empty bowl, and let the clothes soak overnight.
Vinegar Wash Vinegar Wash: Running your clothes through a wash cycle using a cup of distillated white vinegar (no detergent) will also aid in neutralizing odors. Afterward, wash them using an easy soap to take out both the vinegar and mothball smell.
Activated Charcoal – For persistent odors that last for a few days, placing the clothing into a container which is sealed with activated charcoal can absorb any lingering vapors.
You should consult a professional when you’re trying to figure out what you can do to remove mothball odor on delicate clothing or clothing that is able to be cleaned with dry cleaning. They should be aware of what the problem is to determine the most appropriate solution.
How do you get rid of mothballs’ smell in your house
Mothballs can be used in large quantities, or in confined areas like basements or attics. So how can you clean your home?
Ventilation is Key: Start by opening all the windows and using fans to move fresh air through the space. It is essential to eliminate all chemical odors and fumes from the space and bring fresh air in.
Deep Cleaning: Vacuum all carpets. Clean wood surfaces with water and vinegar. Launder all fabrics that are removable, such as cushions and curtains. Steam cleaning upholstery and carpets can help remove smells.
Use activated charcoal filters: Set up air purifiers or bags filled with charcoal in the various corners of your home to absorb the odors.
In the event that the smell remains despite all your efforts to eliminate it, an ozone generator or professional removal of odor could be needed. These services eliminate odor-causing molecules in the air or on surfaces with ozone molecules.
Final Thoughts
If you are able to eliminate the mothball odor it can save you from lots of frustration. Through a combination of airing out and natural deodorizers such as vinegar and baking soda and deep cleaning, it is possible to be able to successfully eliminate even the most difficult odors.
Whether you’re focused on how to get mothball smell out of clothes or how to get rid of mothball smell in house, a little patience and these techniques will leave your spaces and your wardrobe smelling fresh and clean once more.