Mothballs have for a long time been an effective deterrent to moths and other pests, however, they can leave behind an unpleasant odor: a strong, lingering odor. It’s not just you if you’ve ever opened an open drawer, bin or closet to discover the distinct smell of mothballs. There are many people who seek solutions to this issue. Understanding how to remove mothball smell is a matter of knowing the reasons behind it and how it adheres to various surfaces.
The majority of mothballs contain chemicals, such as naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene. These substances sublimate over time which means they change from gas to solid, releasing vapors that are extremely effective in repelling pests. However, the vapors can seep through fabrics, carpets wood, and even out into the air.
This article will show you how to remove mothball odor from clothes as well as in your home. This will make your clothes fresh and your house air-conditioned.
How to Get Mothball to smell out of clothes
Clothes absorb mothball odors quickly. Eliminating the smell is a long and tedious process. If you’re patient and use the right procedures, you can repair the garments.
Air It Out: The simple first step is hanging your clothes outside. Fresh air and sunlight are both powerful. The sun’s UV rays help to break down the chemical components in the evaporated vapors. Allow the clothes to air dry for a couple of days or a few hours if you can.
Baking soda solution: If airing your clothes doesn’t completely rid the smell, then put them in warm water and baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Dissolve a cup baking soda into a basin of water. Allow the clothes sit over night.
Vinegar Wash. Run your clothes through the washing cycle with half a cup of white distilled 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 a persistent odors that last for a few days, placing the clothing in a bag that is sealed with activated carbon will absorb any lingering vapors.
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. Make sure you tell them what the problem is so that they can apply the correct procedure.
How to get rid of Mothball odor in House
The smell doesn’t just stick to clothing, but could also be pervasive throughout areas. This is particularly the case when mothballs are placed in large quantities or tiny spaces like basements or attics. How can you freshen up the house?
Ventilation is Key: Start by opening all the windows and using fans to circulate fresh air through the room. The objective is to remove the chemical vapors and invite fresh air.
Deep Cleaning Vacuum all carpets. Clean wooden surfaces using vinegar and water. Launder all fabrics that are removable, such as cushions and curtains. Steam cleaning upholstery, carpets and other textiles can help speed up the removal of the odors.
Activated Charcoal Filters: Using charcoal air purifiers or bags placed in various areas of your home can help absorb stubborn odors over a period of time.
If the smell remains regardless of your best efforts, it may be necessary to utilize an ozone-generating device or hire an expert to eliminate odor. These services use oxygen molecules to breakdown the odor-causing particles that are within the air and on surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to remove mothball odors can spare you a lot of frustration regardless of whether it’s on your favorite coat or throughout your house. With a mixture of airing out and natural deodorizers such as baking soda and vinegar, as well as deep cleaning, it is possible to easily get rid of even the most difficult stinks.
If you want to know how to get rid of mothball odor from clothes or in the house, these techniques and a little bit of patience will let your house and clothes smell fresh and clean.