Mothballs are commonly used to protect clothing from pests, but they leave behind a strong, unpleasant odor that can linger for weeks or even months. If your jacket smells like mothballs, don’t worry—there are several effective ways to remove the odor and freshen up your clothing.
In this topic, we’ll explore simple and effective methods to get rid of mothball smell from jackets using household items like baking soda, vinegar, activated charcoal, and fresh air.
Why Does Mothball Smell Linger?
Mothballs contain chemicals like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which turn into gas and create a strong, musty smell. These chemicals can embed into fabric fibers, making the odor difficult to remove. The smell persists longer in closed spaces or on thick materials like wool or leather.
Best Ways to Remove Mothball Smell from a Jacket
1. Air It Out
The simplest and most effective method is to let your jacket breathe.
Steps:
- Hang your jacket outside in fresh air
- Choose a shady spot to avoid sun damage
- Leave it for 24–48 hours
- If possible, use a fan to speed up the process
Fresh air helps dissipate chemical fumes, reducing the odor naturally.
2. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs odors effectively.
Steps:
- Place your jacket in a large plastic bag or container
- Add 1–2 cups of baking soda
- Seal the bag and shake it gently
- Leave it overnight, then shake off excess baking soda
- Wash the jacket if needed
For delicate fabrics, place the baking soda in a bowl inside a sealed container with the jacket instead of applying it directly.
3. Wash with Vinegar
White vinegar neutralizes strong odors without damaging fabrics.
Steps:
- Fill a sink or washing machine with cold water
- Add 1 cup of white vinegar
- Soak the jacket for 30–60 minutes
- Wash as usual with mild detergent
- Air dry thoroughly
Vinegar removes lingering mothball smells by breaking down odor molecules.
4. Try Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a powerful odor absorber.
Steps:
- Place activated charcoal in a breathable bag (like a coffee filter or sock)
- Put it in a sealed container with your jacket
- Leave it for 24–48 hours
- Remove the jacket and air it out
This method works best for non-washable jackets like wool, suede, or leather.
5. Use Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds can absorb and replace bad odors with a pleasant scent.
Steps:
- Place dry coffee grounds in a breathable bag
- Put it in a container with your jacket
- Seal and leave for 24–48 hours
- Shake off any loose grounds
This method works well for jackets that cannot be washed frequently.
6. Use Lemon and Sunlight (For Light Fabrics Only)
Lemon juice has natural deodorizing properties, and sunlight can help freshen up fabrics.
Steps:
- Mix lemon juice with water (1:2 ratio)
- Lightly spray the jacket (do not soak)
- Hang the jacket in direct sunlight for a few hours
- Air dry completely
Avoid excessive sunlight on dark fabrics to prevent fading.
7. Fabric Freshener Sprays
Commercial fabric sprays like Febreze can help mask and neutralize mothball smells.
Steps:
- Lightly spray the jacket inside and out
- Let it air dry in a ventilated area
- Repeat if necessary
This method provides a quick fix but may not fully remove deep-set odors.
Special Care for Different Jacket Materials
Wool Jackets
- Avoid excessive washing; use baking soda or charcoal
- If washing, use cold water and mild detergent
- Always air dry to prevent shrinkage
Leather Jackets
- Do not wash with water; use activated charcoal or coffee grounds
- Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap
- Apply a leather conditioner after odor removal
Synthetic Jackets
- Wash with vinegar and detergent
- Air dry completely
- Store in a well-ventilated space to prevent odors from returning
How to Prevent Mothball Odor in the Future
- Store jackets with lavender sachets or cedarwood blocks instead of mothballs
- Keep clothing in well-ventilated closets
- Use vacuum-sealed bags for long-term storage
- If using mothballs, place them in sealed containers, not directly on fabric
Mothball odor can be stubborn, but with the right methods—like air drying, baking soda, vinegar, or activated charcoal—you can restore your jacket’s freshness. Always choose a method suitable for your jacket’s material to avoid damage.
By following these simple steps, you can eliminate mothball smells effectively and enjoy wearing your jacket again.