Mothballs have been a trusted defense against moths as well as other pests, however, they can leave behind an unpleasant odor: the strong, persistent smell. You’re not alone when you’ve opened a bin, drawer or closet only to be confronted by mothballs’ distinctive scent. A lot of people are looking for the best methods to solve this issue. Knowing how to eliminate mothball scent requires understanding the basics of what triggers it and how it clings to different surfaces.
The majority of mothballs contain chemicals, such as paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene. These substances sublimate over time which means they change from solid to gas, releasing vapors that are extremely effective in repelling pests. Unfortunately, these vapors penetrate into wood, fabrics carpets, wood, and the air, giving off that persistent odor we all fear.
Let’s dive into how to get mothball smell out of clothes and how to get rid of mothball smell in house environments, ensuring your items and your home are fresh and breathable once again.
How can you remove the odor of mothballs from clothes
Clothing tends to absorb mothball odors quickly, and getting rid of the smell could be a difficult process. If you are patient and follow the right methods, you can restore these clothes.
Air It Out: The most basic first step is to hang your clothes outdoors. Fresh air and sunlight can do wonders. The sun’s UV rays aid in breaking down the chemical compounds contained in the vapors. The clothes should be left outside for several hours or days, if you can.
Baking Soda soak: If drying out doesn’t fully remove the smell, try soaking the clothing in a solution consisting of warm baking soda and water. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Mix a cup of baking soda in a sink of water and let the clothes sit for a few hours.
Vinegar Wash Add a cup of white vinegar into wash cycles (without detergent) will also neutralize smells. Afterwards, wash them with mild soap to get rid of both the vinegar and mothball smell.
Activated charcoal: If the smell is very intense, you could place your clothes inside an activated charcoal container for a few days to help absorb any vapours.
Speak with a professional cleaner if you are looking for a way to eliminate the mothball odor on clothing that must be dry cleaned or are delicate. They should be aware of the specific odor problem so that they can select the best method.
How to Remove Mothball-like smells in House
The odor isn’t limited to clothing, it can also permeate the entire space, particularly if mothballs were placed in large quantities or confined areas like basements or attics. How can you freshen up the house?
Ventilation: open windows and make use of fans to circulate of air that is fresh. It is vital to remove the chemical fumes from the area and then bring fresh air in.
Deep Cleaning Carpets: Vacuum them. Clean wooden surfaces with vinegar and water. Launder all fabrics that are removable such as cushions and curtains. Steam cleaning upholstery and carpets can also aid in the elimination of odors.
Activated charcoal filters Place bags of activated carbon or air purifiers in different locations around the house and you will be able to eliminate persistent scents for days.
In cases where the smell persists regardless of your efforts to eliminate it, an ozone generator or an expert odor removal service may be necessary. The services can break down the odor-causing molecules within the air, or on surfaces, using Ozone molecules.
Final Thoughts
If you’re able to get rid of the mothball smell, it can spare you many more headaches. You can remove all odors, even those that are the most difficult to eliminate by using a combination airing out, deodorizers such vinegar and baking soda, and deep cleaning.
If you’re interested in knowing how to get rid of mothball odor on your clothes or within the home, these tips and a bit of patience will let your house as well as your clothes smell fresh and clean.
