Mothballs are small chemical-based pellets traditionally used to protect clothing and fabrics from insects like moths and silverfish. The most common ingredients in mothballs are naphthalene and paradichlorobenzene, both of which release a strong, pungent odor. While they’re effective as insect repellents, their scent is often overpowering and difficult to remove, especially once it penetrates furniture, walls, or fabric.
This article explores effective methods to remove mothball smell from your house, combining science-backed cleaning solutions with natural home remedies.
Why Mothball Smell is So Difficult to Eliminate
The key reason mothball smell lingers is that it’s caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds don’t simply sit on the surface — they off-gas into the air and cling to porous materials like:
- Upholstery
- Carpeting
- Wood
- Curtains
- Drywall
These VOCs can take weeks or even months to fully evaporate if left untreated. That’s why a passive approach doesn’t work — you need active removal techniques to truly cleanse your home’s air and surfaces.
Step-by-Step Guide to Eliminate Mothball Smell
### 1. Identify and Remove All Mothballs
Before any deodorizing begins, find and dispose of all remaining mothballs. Look in:
- Closets
- Storage boxes
- Basements
- Attics
- Drawers or behind furniture
Wear gloves and avoid breathing in the fumes directly. Seal them in a plastic bag and follow your local hazardous waste disposal guidelines.
### 2. Improve Ventilation Throughout the House
Open all windows and doors to maximize airflow. Use box fans, exhaust fans, or air purifiers with HEPA filters to circulate fresh air and push out chemical vapors.
Pro Tip:
Leave fans running for a few hours a day, especially during early mornings or evenings when the air outside is cooler and fresher.
### 3. Use Activated Charcoal or Baking Soda to Absorb Odors
Both activated charcoal and baking soda are known for their odor-absorbing capabilities. Here’s how to use them:
| Material | Usage |
|---|---|
| Activated Charcoal | Place in bowls around the affected rooms |
| Baking Soda | Sprinkle on carpets or inside drawers |
| Both | Let it sit for 48–72 hours and repeat as needed |
Replace the materials every few days until the smell fades significantly.
### 4. Wash Affected Fabrics and Textiles Thoroughly
Any fabric exposed to mothballs can trap VOCs, leading to long-term odor problems. Wash the following in hot water:
- Curtains
- Pillow covers
- Bedsheets
- Tablecloths
- Clothes from storage
Use a strong detergent with a cup of white vinegar added during the rinse cycle to neutralize the smell.
### 5. Clean Walls, Floors, and Surfaces with Vinegar
Vinegar is a natural deodorizer and works well on non-porous surfaces. Mix:
- 1 part white vinegar
- 1 part warm water
- A few drops of lemon essential oil (optional)
Use this to wipe down:
- Walls
- Floors
- Windowsills
- Closet interiors
- Baseboards
Repeat every 2–3 days for best results.
### 6. Use Essential Oils and Natural Air Fresheners
Don’t just cover the smell — replace it. Add bowls of water with a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus oils around your home. You can also simmer:
- Lemon peels
- Cloves
- Cinnamon sticks
This will naturally fragrance the air while neutralizing odors.
### 7. Consider Steam Cleaning for Carpets and Upholstery
Steam cleaning is an excellent option for soft surfaces like:
- Sofas
- Mattresses
- Area rugs
- Carpets
Steam helps loosen chemical residue and remove deep-seated odor particles. Use a professional-grade steam cleaner or hire a cleaning service for larger jobs.
### 8. Place Bowls of Coffee Grounds or Citrus Peels Around the Home
Coffee grounds act as natural odor eaters, while citrus peels release fresh-smelling oils. This combo is ideal for:
- Bedrooms
- Entryways
- Closets
Leave fresh bowls out for 2–3 days, then replace them weekly for continued freshness.
### 9. Use an Ozone Generator as a Last Resort
If nothing else works, consider using an ozone generator. These devices release ozone gas to neutralize stubborn odors on a molecular level. However, they must be used with extreme caution:
- Do not stay in the room during treatment
- Air out the home thoroughly before re-entering
- Follow all safety instructions from the manufacturer
Here’s a guide on safe ozone generator use by the EPA
Natural Alternatives to Mothballs for Future Use
To avoid repeating this problem, consider natural moth repellents, including:
- Cedar blocks or chips
- Lavender sachets
- Clove and bay leaves
- Dried rosemary or mint
These alternatives are non-toxic, pleasant-smelling, and safe for both pets and humans.
Health Concerns Linked to Mothball Exposure
Mothball chemicals have been linked to:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Respiratory issues
- Liver or kidney damage (with prolonged exposure)
- Risks for pregnant women and children
If symptoms occur, consult a healthcare professional. Always store these products in well-sealed containers, away from living areas.
When to Call a Professional Odor Removal Service
If the mothball smell lingers beyond 2–3 weeks of active cleaning, call a professional who can:
- Conduct indoor air quality testing
- Use commercial-grade ozone or hydroxyl machines
- Provide deep cleaning for HVAC systems
Costs vary but typically range from $200–$800, depending on the extent of contamination.
Preventing Mothball Smell from Returning
- Store clothes in airtight bins
- Use only natural repellents
- Regularly clean and air out storage areas
- Avoid using mothballs in humid or poorly ventilated environments
FAQs About Removing Mothball Smell
1. How long does mothball smell last in a house?
It can linger for weeks or months, especially in poorly ventilated areas or porous materials.
2. Is mothball smell dangerous to inhale?
Yes, long-term exposure can cause health problems. It’s especially harmful to infants, pets, and people with respiratory conditions.
3. Can air fresheners remove mothball odor?
Air fresheners may mask the odor temporarily, but they won’t eliminate it. You need deodorizing solutions like vinegar or baking soda.
4. Will professional carpet cleaning help?
Absolutely. Steam cleaning is one of the most effective methods for removing embedded chemical smells.
5. Can I use vinegar and baking soda together?
Yes, but not at the same time. Use them separately to avoid neutralizing their individual effects.
6. Are there any eco-friendly mothball alternatives?
Yes. Try cedarwood, dried herbs, or lavender sachets for a natural, toxin-free solution.
Conclusion: Fresh Air is Just a Few Steps Away
The smell of mothballs may seem impossible to remove, but with persistence and the right combination of natural remedies and deep cleaning, your house can smell fresh and clean again. From ventilation to vinegar, these 9 proven steps can eliminate mothball odor and help you avoid it in the future.
