It’s no secret that mothballs are a reliable defense against insects such as moths. But they do leave a foul odor behind. You’re not alone when you’ve opened one of your drawers, bins or cupboard to find mothballs’ distinctive scent. This is a very common one, and plenty of people are searching for solutions. Understanding the cause of mothball scent and how it adheres on surfaces is vital in understanding how to remove it.
Mothballs are usually made with chemicals like paradichlorobenzene, or naphthalene. These chemicals are sublimated through time. This means that they go from being solids to gasses, and release vapors that are effective in repelling insects. Unfortunately, the vapors seep through carpets, fabrics, wood and into the air.
We’ll show you how to remove mothball odor from clothes and around the house. This will make your items fresh and your home is breathable once more.
How to get rid of mothballs from clothes
The clothing can absorb the odor of mothballs quite quickly. It is not easy to get rid of the smell. But the good news is that with a little patience and the right methods, you can restore your clothing.
Hang your clothes outdoors for them to air out. Fresh air and sunshine can be a boon. UV rays from the sun help to break down the chemical compounds contained in the vapours. Let the clothing out for a couple of hours or days if it is possible.
Baking soda soak If drying the clothing out doesn’t completely remove the smell try to soak them in a solution consisting of warm water and baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve 1 cup of baking soda into a basin full of water. The clothes should be soaked in the solution for a night.
Vinegar Wash Vinegar Wash – Adding a cup of white vinegar to the wash cycle (without detergent) can neutralize smells. Afterward, wash them using gentle soap to eliminate both the vinegar and mothball smell.
Charcoal activated: If you notice that the odor is especially heavy, you may want to put your clothes inside an activated charcoal container for a few days to soak up any remaining vapours.
If you’re wondering how to eliminate mothball odor from clothes that are delicate or dry cleaned solely, it’s recommended to consult a professional cleaner. It is essential to explain to them what the problem is so that they can determine the best method.
How to Remove Mothball Smell from House
The smell doesn’t just stick to clothing, it could also be pervasive throughout areas. This is especially the case when you’ve placed mothballs in large quantities or small spaces such as basements or attics. How do you freshen up your house?
Ventilation: Open the windows and use fans to ensure circulation of air that is fresh. It is crucial to get rid of all chemical odors and fumes from the area and then bring fresh air in.
Deep Cleaning: Clean carpets and wipe wood surfaces clean with a solution of vinegar and water, and launder any drapes, curtains or cushion covers. Steam cleaning upholstery and carpets will also help in removing odors.
Activated Charcoal Filters: Utilizing charcoal bags or air purifiers in various areas of your home will assist in the elimination of odors over a period of time.
In the event that the smell is persistent despite all your efforts such as an ozone generator or an expert service to remove odors may be required. The services employ ozone to degrade particles that cause odors in the air and surfaces.
Final Thoughts
If you can get rid of the mothball smell, it could save you from lots of frustration. Utilizing a combination of airing out and natural deodorizers such as vinegar and baking soda, as well as deep cleaning, you can easily get rid of even the most obnoxious 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.