Mothballs are often used to protect clothes, furniture, and storage items from moths and other pests. However, while they are effective at repelling insects, mothballs leave behind a strong, pungent odor that can linger for a long time. This smell can permeate clothing, furniture, rooms, and even cars, making it unpleasant to be around these items. In this guide, we will explore various methods to help you get rid of mothball odor, using both natural and store-bought solutions.

 

1. 1. What Causes Mothball Odor? 

Mothballs are typically made from chemicals such as naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which sublimate over time, meaning they change from solid to gas without passing through a liquid state. This process releases vapors that effectively repel moths and other pests, but it also leaves behind a strong, distinctive odor. The smell can be absorbed into various materials, including fabrics, wood, and carpets, making it difficult to remove. Understanding the cause of mothball odor is the first step in effectively eliminating it. 

2. How to Remove Mothball Odor from Clothes 

Clothing can easily absorb the smell of mothballs, and getting rid of this odor can be a challenge. Here are some effective methods to help you remove mothball smell from clothes: 

Airing Out 

• Method: Hang the clothes outside in a well-ventilated area for a few days. 

• Why it Works: Fresh air and sunlight help to dissipate the chemicals causing the odor, leaving your clothes smelling fresh. 

Washing with Vinegar and Baking Soda 

• Method: Add one cup of white vinegar and half a cup of baking soda to your laundry detergent. Wash the clothes in warm water. 

• Why it Works: Vinegar neutralizes odors, and baking soda absorbs them, making them a powerful combination for removing mothball smells from fabrics. 

Use Activated Charcoal 

• Method: Place activated charcoal in a breathable bag and hang it with the clothes in a closet or enclosed space. 

• Why it Works: Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing odors, including the strong smell of mothballs. 

3. Getting Rid of Mothball Smell in Rooms 

If a room smells like mothballs, it can make the entire space feel uninviting. Here are some steps you can take to freshen up the room: 

Ventilation 

• Method: Open windows and doors to increase air circulation. Use fans to speed up the process. 

• Why it Works: Fresh air helps to disperse and dilute the strong mothball odor, making it less noticeable over time. 

Baking Soda and Vinegar Bowls 

• Method: Place bowls of baking soda or vinegar around the room to absorb and neutralize the odor. 

• Why it Works: Both baking soda and vinegar are known for their odor-neutralizing properties, which can help to remove the lingering smell of mothballs. 

Air Purifiers 

• Method: Use an air purifier with an activated charcoal filter to clean the air. 

• Why it Works: Air purifiers can remove chemical odors and improve air quality, making them an effective solution for getting rid of mothball smell in rooms. 

4. Eliminating Mothball Odor from Furniture 

Furniture, especially upholstered pieces, can hold onto mothball smells, making it essential to clean them thoroughly. Here are some techniques to help you remove the odor from your furniture: 

Wiping Down with Vinegar Solution 

• Method: Mix equal parts of water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on the furniture and wipe with a clean cloth. 

• Why it Works: Vinegar helps break down the chemical compounds that cause odors, making it easier to remove them from furniture surfaces. 

Using Baking Soda 

• Method: Sprinkle baking soda on upholstered furniture and let it sit for several hours before vacuuming. 

• Why it Works: Baking soda is a natural odor absorber, making it effective at removing mothball smells from upholstered furniture. 

Wood Furniture Treatment 

• Method: Wipe down wood furniture with a solution of mild dish soap and water. For stubborn odors, use a mixture of vinegar and water. 

• Why it Works: This method removes residue that may be holding onto the odor, especially on wood surfaces. 

5. Natural Remedies to Remove Mothball Smell 

If you prefer to use natural methods to eliminate mothball odor, here are some effective remedies: 

Lemon and Salt 

• Method: Place bowls of lemon slices and salt around the affected area. 

• Why it Works: Lemon has a fresh scent, and salt can absorb odors, helping to neutralize the smell of mothballs. 

Essential Oils 

• Method: Mix a few drops of essential oil (like lavender or tea tree) with water in a spray bottle. Spray around the affected area. 

• Why it Works: Essential oils have natural deodorizing properties that can mask and neutralize odors, leaving a pleasant fragrance behind. 

White Vinegar Spray 

• Method: Fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and mist the affected areas lightly. 

• Why it Works: Vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes strong smells like mothballs, making it an effective solution for odor removal. 

6. How to Neutralize Mothball Odor in a Car 

If your car smells like mothballs, follow these steps to freshen it up: 

Clean Interior Surfaces 

• Method: Wipe down all interior surfaces with a mixture of water and vinegar. 

• Why it Works: This helps remove any residue left by the mothballs, which can be a source of the lingering odor. 

Use Odor Absorbers 

• Method: Place odor absorbers like activated charcoal or baking soda in the car overnight. 

• Why it Works: These materials can absorb odors, improving air quality in the vehicle. 

Ventilation 

• Method: Open all windows and doors and let fresh air circulate through the car. 

• Why it Works: Fresh air can help dissipate the lingering mothball odor, making it less noticeable over time. 

7. Best Products for Removing Mothball Odor 

For those who prefer store-bought solutions, here are some effective products: 

• Odor Neutralizing Sprays: Available in most stores, these sprays are designed to eliminate strong odors, including mothball smells. 

• Activated Charcoal Bags: These are great for absorbing odors in closets, cars, and other enclosed spaces. They can be placed in any area that needs deodorizing. 

• Enzyme Cleaners: These cleaners break down odor-causing compounds and are effective on fabrics and surfaces. They are particularly useful for removing mothball odors from clothing and furniture. 

How to Get Rid of Mothball Odor: FAQs

Q: How long does it take to get rid of mothball odor? 

A: You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the fire is extinguished. This helps to start the claims process quickly and ensure you have immediate coverage for temporary living expenses and restoration. 

Q: Can mothball odor be harmful? 

A: Yes, prolonged exposure to mothball fumes, which contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, can be harmful, especially to children and pets. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, and respiratory issues.