Mothballs’ smell can be an ongoing issue. You’re not the only one who’s opened a drawer, an open closet, or even a storage container only to discover a persistent mothball smell. Many people find themselves searching for the best way to address this issue. To understand how to remove the odor of mothballs you must know what causes it as much as how it attaches to different surfaces.
The majority of mothballs contain chemical compounds like paradichlorobenzene or naphthalene. They sublimate as time passes that is, they transform from solid to gas emitting vapors that are extremely effective in repelling insects. Unfortunately, the vapors leak through carpets, fabrics, wood and into the air.
Let’s explore how to get mothball smell out of your clothes and get rid of mothball smell in house environments, ensuring your belongings and your home are fresh and breathable once again.
How to get rid of mothballs on clothes?
Clothes absorb mothball odors quickly. Eliminating the smell is a lengthy process. But the good news is that with perseverance and the correct techniques, you can get back your clothes.
Put your clothes outside for them to air out. The fresh air and the sun’s rays can do wonders. The UV rays of the sun help to break down the chemical compounds in the vapors. The clothes should be left outside for a couple of hours or days if possible.
Baking Soda Soak: If blowing out does not completely eliminate the smell, you can soak the clothes in a solution 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 A cup of white vinegar into wash cycles (without detergent) will also neutralize smells. Next, make use of a mild detergent wash the clothes a second time. This removes the mothball residue and vinegar smell.
Activated Charcoal – To combat stubborn odors that persist for days, putting the clothing in a container sealed with activated carbon can soak up any remaining gasses.
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 problem is so that they can apply the correct procedure.
How to Remove the odor of mothballs in your House
The odor isn’t limited to clothing. It can infiltrate entire rooms, particularly when mothballs are found in large amounts or were placed in tight spaces like attics or basements. So how can you clean your home?
Ventilation is crucial: Begin by opening all windows and making use of fans to move fresh air through the area. The aim is to push out the chemical vapors and invite in clean air.
Deep Cleaning: Vacuum carpets, wipe wood surfaces clean with a solution of vinegar and water and then wash all fabric that is removable, such as curtains and cushion covers. Steam cleaning carpets, upholstery and other fabric can speed up the removal of unpleasant odors.
Active Charcoal Filters: Making use of charcoal air purifiers or bags in different rooms of the house can help absorb stubborn odors over a period of time.
When the smell persists despite your best efforts, it could be necessary to employ an ozone generator or a professional service for odor elimination. They use ozone to disintegrate particles that contribute to odors in the air and surfaces.
Final Thoughts
It is possible to avoid a lot of frustration by learning how to get rid of mothball odors, whether trying to remove it from your favorite coat or from your entire home. You can eliminate even the most obnoxious odors with a combination of airing out, deodorizers such vinegar and baking soda, as well as deep cleaning.
Whether you’re focused on how to remove mothball smell of your clothes or eliminate the mothball odor inside your home, a bit patience and these strategies will have your living spaces and your clothes fresh and clean once more.
