Mothballs’ smell can be a lingering problem. You’re not alone if you’ve ever opened an open drawer, bin or closet to discover the distinctive smell of mothballs. The issue is a typical one and a lot of people are looking for solutions. Understanding the cause of mothball scent and how it adheres on surfaces is vital in understanding how to eliminate it.
Many mothballs have chemicals like paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene. These chemicals change form over time that is, they transform from solid to gas, releasing vapors that are highly effective at repelling pests. Unfortunately, these vapors also seep into fabrics, wood, carpets, and even the air, creating that persistent odor we all hate.
We’ll help you get rid of the smell of mothballs from your clothes as well as in your home. This will leave your clothing fresh and your environment breathable again.
How do you get rid of the smell of mothballs off clothes?
The clothing can absorb the odor of mothballs fast. It’s not easy to eliminate the smell. However, by putting in the time and using the correct techniques, you can get back your garments.
Air It Out: The easiest first step is to hang your clothes outdoors. Sunlight and fresh air are powerful. The UV rays from the sun can break down the chemical components in the vapors. If possible, leave the clothes in the sun for a period of time or days.
Baking Soda Soak: If blowing out doesn’t fully remove the smell, try soaking the clothes in a mixture of warm water and baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve a cup of baking powder in a bowl of water, and let the clothes soak overnight.
Vinegar Wash. Running your clothing through the washing cycle using half a cup of white vinegar (without detergent) will neutralize the smell. Next, make use of a mild detergent wash the clothes again. This removes the residue of vinegar and mothball smell.
Activated Charcoal – For stubborn odors that persist for a few days, placing the clothing into a container filled with activated carbon could absorb any lingering airborne vapors.
It is recommended to consult a professional if you are wondering what you can do to remove mothball odor on delicate clothing or clothes that can only be cleaned using dry-cleaning. They will need to know the exact smell so that the best method can be chosen.
How to get rid of mothballs’ smell in your house
The smell doesn’t only stick to clothes it can permeate the entire space, particularly when mothballs are placed on a large scale or in restricted spaces like attics or basements. What can you do to refresh your house?
Ventilation is Key: Start by opening all windows and making use of fans to move fresh air throughout the area. It is important to remove all chemical odors and fumes from the room, and also to let in fresh air.
Deep Cleaning Vacuum all carpets. Clean wood surfaces with water and vinegar. Launder any removable fabrics, such as cushions and curtains. Steam cleaning carpets and upholstery can also speed up the removal of odors.
Utilize activated charcoal filters. Put air purifiers and bags with charcoal in various corners of your house to suck up odors.
When the smell persists even despite all your efforts, it might be necessary to utilize an ozone-generating device, or employ a professional service for the elimination of odor. These services use Ozone molecules to degrade the odor-causing particles that are in the air and surfaces.
Final Thoughts
You can cut down on frustration by knowing how to eliminate mothball odors, whether trying to eliminate the smell from your favorite clothing or the entire house. Cleaning your house making use of natural deodorizers such as vinegar and baking soda, as well as doing a deep clean can help remove even the toughest smells.
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.