The smell of mothballs may be a lingering problem. If you’ve opened a bin or closet and were greeted with the distinct scent of mothballs it’s not a problem for everyone. Many people look for the best way to solve this issue. Understanding what triggers mothball smell and how it sticks to surfaces is important in determining how to get rid of it.
Mothballs are generally made of chemicals like paradichlorobenzene, or naphthalene. These chemicals sublimate, which means they transform directly from a solid substance to a gas as time passes. They emit vapors, that are highly effective in repelling pests. However, the vapors can seep through carpets, fabrics, wood and out into the air.
We’ll teach you how to remove mothball odor from clothes and around the house. This will keep your clothing fresh and your environment air-conditioned.
How to Remove Mothball Smell Out of Clothes
Mothball smells can be absorbed into clothing quickly. Eliminating the smell is a lengthy process. But the good news is that by putting in the time and using the correct techniques, you can get back your garments.
Air It Out: The easiest first step is hanging your clothes outdoors. The sun’s rays and fresh air are powerful. The UV rays from the sun can in the breakdown of chemical components in the vapors. Let the clothing out for several hours or even days, if that is possible.
Baking soda soak If drying the clothes out does not completely remove the smell try making a solution composed of warm water and baking soda. Baking soda acts as a natural deodorizer. Mix 1 cup baking soda into a basin full of water. Let the clothes soak in the solution overnight.
Vinegar Wash. Running your clothes through the wash cycle with a half cup of white vinegar (without detergent) aids in neutralizing odors. Afterward, wash them again with a gentle detergent to completely remove both mothball scent and vinegar remnants.
Activated charcoal: If the odor is especially heavy, you may want to put your clothing in an activated charcoal container for a couple of 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 what the problem is to determine the most appropriate solution.
How do you eliminate the smell of mothballs in your home
The smell doesn’t only stick to clothes, but it could also be pervasive throughout areas. This is particularly the case if you have placed mothballs in large quantities or smaller spaces such as attics or basements. So how can you clean your home?
Open all windows, and use fans to circulate air. The aim is to remove the chemical vapors, and then let fresh air to circulate.
Deep Cleaning Clean all carpets. Wipe wooden surfaces with water and vinegar. Launder all fabrics that are removable such as cushions and curtains. Steam cleaning upholstery, carpets and other fabric can speed up the removal of the odors.
Utilize activated charcoal filters. Set up air purifiers or bags filled with charcoal in the various corners of your house to suck up odors.
In the event that the smell is persistent even after all efforts using an ozone generator, a professional odor removal service may be necessary. These services make use of ozone molecules to break down odor-causing particles within the air and on surfaces.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to remove mothball odors can spare you a great deal of hassle regardless of whether it’s on your favourite coat or in your house. You can get rid of even the most obnoxious odors with a combination of airing out, deodorizers such vinegar and baking soda as well as deep cleaning.
If you’re interested in knowing how to get rid of mothball odor off your clothes or the house, these techniques and a bit of perseverance will make your space and wardrobe smell fresh and neat.
