Mothballs have for a long time been used as a reliable defense against moths as well as other pests, but they often leave behind an unwelcome souvenir: an odor that is strong and persistent. If you’ve opened a bin or closet only to be greeted by the distinctive scent of mothballs, you’re not alone. Many people are searching for the most effective ways to solve this issue. Understanding what triggers mothball smell and how it sticks to surfaces is crucial in understanding how to eliminate it.
Mothballs are usually made with substances like paradichlorobenzene and naphthalene. These substances are sublimated over time. This means that they transition from solids to gases, and release vapors that help repel insects. These vapors can also penetrate carpets, wood, and the air to produce that smell we dislike.
Learn to get rid of the mothball scent from clothing and your home. Your items will be fresh and airy.
How to remove the mothball odor from clothing
The smell of mothballs is absorbed by clothing very quickly. The removal of the smell can be a long and tedious process. With patience and the right methods, you can restore the garments.
Hang your clothes outdoors so that they can air out. The sun and fresh air can be a great help. The UV rays from the sun can to break down the chemical components in the vapours. Let the clothes air dry for a few days or even hours if possible.
Baking Soda Soak: If blowing out does not completely eliminate the smell, try soaking the clothing in a mixture of warm baking soda and water. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve 1 cup of baking soda in a bowl filled with water. The clothes should be soaked in the solution for a night.
Vinegar Wash. The process of running your clothes through the washing cycle with a half cup of white distilled vinegar (without detergent) helps neutralize odors. After that, you can use a mild detergent to wash the clothes again. This will eliminate the vinegar residue and mothball smell.
Activated charcoal: If you notice that the odor is particularly heavy, you may want to put your clothes inside an activated charcoal container for a few days to absorb 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. Be sure to inform them of the cause of the odor to determine the right method.
How do you eliminate mothballs’ smell in your home
The smell doesn’t only stick to clothing, but could also be pervasive throughout rooms. This is particularly true in the event that you’ve put mothballs in large quantities or tiny spaces like attics or basements. How can you freshen your home?
Ventilation is crucial: Begin by opening all the windows and using fans to circulate fresh air throughout the area. The aim is to eliminate the chemical vapors and let fresh air.
Deep Cleaning: Vacuum carpets and wipe wood surfaces clean using vinegar-water solution. Launder fabric that can be removed, such as curtains and cushion covers. Steam cleaning carpets, upholstery and other fabric can speed up the removal of the odors.
Active Charcoal Filters: Making use of charcoal air purifiers or bags placed in various areas of your home can help absorb stubborn odors over the course of several days.
In cases where the smell persists regardless of your efforts using an ozone generator, professional removal of odor may be required. They use ozone to disintegrate particles that contribute to odors in the air and on surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Finding out how to get rid of mothball odors can spare you from a lot of stress in the future, whether it’s on a favourite coat or in your house. Cleaning your house using natural deodorizers, such as baking soda, along with a deep clean can aid in removing even the toughest odors.
These techniques can be used to help your clothes and your home smell clean and fresh again.