Mothballs are used as a reliable defense against moths and other pests, however, they can leave behind an unwelcome souvenir: the strong, persistent smell. If you’ve opened a storage bin or closet only to be met with the distinct scent of mothballs and you’re not the only one. This issue is a frequent one, and many people are seeking solutions. Understanding the cause of mothball scent and how it adheres on surfaces is essential in understanding how to remove it.
The majority of mothballs contain chemicals, such as paradichlorobenzene, naphthalene, or. The chemicals sublimate over time and shift from gas to solid, releasing vapors that can be extremely effective in repelling pests. However, the vapors can also seep into fabrics, wood carpets, carpets, and the air, producing an odor we fear.
We’ll help you remove the odor of mothballs from clothing and in the home. This will keep your clothes fresh and your environment fresh and breathable.
How to Get Mothball Smell Out of Clothes
Mothball-related odors can be absorbed by clothing fast. It’s not simple to remove the smell. The good news is that with a little patience and the right strategies, you can revive your garments.
The most efficient way to air your clothes is to hang them outdoors. Fresh air and sunlight are a boon. The sun’s UV rays can help in the breakdown of chemical components in the evaporated vapors. Let the clothes air dry for a couple of days or a few hours if possible.
Baking Soda Solution: In case airing your clothes doesn’t completely rid the smell, then soak them in warm water in baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve a cup baking soda into a basin of water. Let the clothes soak over night.
Vinegar Wash Vinegar Wash: Running your clothes through a wash cycle with a cup of distillated white vinegar (no detergent) can also help neutralize smells. Following that, wash them with gentle soap to eliminate the mothball and vinegar smell.
Activated charcoal: If the smell is especially prominent, place your clothes in an activated charcoal container for a few days to soak up any remaining vapours.
If you’re wondering how to remove mothball smell from clothes that are delicate or dry clean only, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner. They will need to know the exact smell so that the correct method can be picked.
How to get rid of mothballs’ smell in your house
The odor isn’t limited to clothing. It can contaminate entire rooms, particularly when mothballs are placed in large amounts or were placed in tight spaces such as basements or attics. What can you do to refresh your house?
Shut all the windows and then use fans to circulate air. The idea is for chemical vapors to be forced out and clean air to be able to enter.
Deep Cleaning: Vacuum the carpets and scrub wooden surfaces with vinegar-water solution. Launder removable fabrics such as curtains and cushion covers. Steam cleaning upholstery and carpets can also speed up the removal of odors.
Filters made of activated charcoal: By placing bags of activated charcoal or air purifiers in different locations around the house it is possible to absorb persistent unpleasant odors over a period of time.
In the event that the smell persists regardless of your efforts such as an ozone generator or an expert odor removal service may be necessary. These services help break down the molecules that cause odor in the air or on surfaces with the ozone molecules.
Final Thoughts
Understanding how to eliminate mothball odors can spare you from a lot of stress in the future, whether it’s on a favorite coat or throughout your house. You can remove even the most difficult odors by combining airing out, deodorizers like baking soda and vinegar and deep cleaning.
Whether you’re focused on how to eliminate the mothball scent of clothes or how to get rid of mothball smell inside your home, a bit patience and these methods will make your home and clothing smelling fresh and clean once more.
