How to Eliminate Mothball Odors from Clothes
Finding that perfect vintage piece can be such a thrill. It’s exciting to score a stylish addition to your wardrobe for a fraction of the price, and you get the added satisfaction of doing your part for the environment by buying secondhand. But then comes the disappointment when you realize that your newfound treasure is marred by a strong, unpleasant smell. It’s not just any bad odor—it’s a musty, chemical stench that seems impossible to remove. If this sounds familiar, there’s a good chance your clothes are plagued by mothball odor.
What Causes Mothball Smells?
Mothballs typically contain two types of chemicals: naphthalene, which is derived from coal tar, or paradichlorobenzene. These chemicals are responsible for that harsh, acrid smell that is difficult to ignore. The primary purpose of mothballs is to act as a fumigant, releasing fumes that kill moths and larvae when clothes are stored in a sealed container. Although mothballs have been banned due to health risks associated with their fumes, they remain available online and are still in widespread use. Exposure to these chemicals can lead to serious health problems, which is why getting rid of the odor is so important.
Air Your Clothes Outdoors
The first and simplest step to eliminating mothball smells is to let your clothes air out in the sunlight. If possible, do this as soon as you can. However, if the weather isn’t ideal, it’s best to keep the clothes in a sealed box until you can take them outside. Avoid airing the clothes inside your home, as that will only transfer the odor to your living space. Sunlight and fresh air help to break down naphthalene, and the US Centers for Disease Control states that exposure to sunlight and moisture can neutralize naphthalene within one day. For most fabrics, airing the garment outdoors for a few hours should significantly reduce the odor. If the item is made of leather or another material that can’t be washed, air it out as much as possible before considering other options like dry cleaning.
Use White Vinegar to Neutralize Odors
White vinegar is an incredibly versatile household item, and it works wonders when it comes to removing odors. To neutralize mothball smells, mix eight parts water with one part white vinegar in a bucket and soak the garment for about an hour. Avoid putting the vinegar directly into your washing machine, as its acidity can damage the rubber seals over time and may lead to leaks or lingering smells inside the machine. Vintage or delicate clothing items may need extra care, so soaking in a bucket is a safer option. Once the garment has soaked, rinse it well, and then wash it on a gentle cycle using regular laundry detergent or by hand. For especially delicate items, use a mild, non-biological detergent like May Chang Laundry Liquid, which is gentle on fabrics and also helps repel moths.
By following these steps, you can say goodbye to the lingering mothball odor and restore your secondhand finds to their original glory.
