How to Get the Mothball Smell Out Of Clothes and Furniture: 7 Proven Methods That Actually Work

That sharp, chemical mothball smell clinging to your favorite sweater or vintage furniture can feel overwhelming and embarrassing. You’ve probably tried airing things out for days, only to have that stubborn odor return the moment you bring items back inside. The frustration is real, and you’re not alone in wondering if that smell will ever truly disappear.

The good news is that mothball odor can be completely eliminated with the right approach and a bit of patience. We’ve tested dozens of methods and identified seven proven techniques that tackle the chemical compounds causing the smell at their source. These aren’t quick fixes or temporary masking solutions – they’re science-backed strategies that will restore your belongings to their fresh, odor-free state.

Quick Solutions Table

If you’re short on time but need fast relief from that sharp, chemical mothball smell lingering on your clothes or furniture, this table gives you a clear snapshot of your best options. Each method targets the odor at its source-not just covering it up-and works with everyday household items or accessible tools.

For immediate relief on wearable items, combine fresh air exposure with a vinegar pre-soak-it’s one of the most reliable ways to get mothball smell out of clothes without harsh chemicals. If you’re dealing with stored winter coats or blankets, activated charcoal in a sealed bin overnight can dramatically reduce the need for repeated washing.

The Science Made Simple: Why Mothball Smell Happens

What Makes Mothball Odor So Persistent

Mothball smell clings stubbornly because it’s not just a surface-level odor-it’s a vapor emitted by slow-sublimating chemicals. These gases seep deep into fabric fibers, foam padding, and even wood, embedding themselves over time. Unlike food or sweat smells that wash away easily, mothball odor molecules bond tightly to porous materials, making them hard to dislodge without targeted treatment.

Why Traditional Air Fresheners Don’t Work

Spraying perfume or using plug-in air fresheners only masks the problem. They add another layer of scent on top of the chemical odor without neutralizing or removing it. Since mothball vapors continuously off-gas, the underlying smell returns as soon as the masking fragrance fades-sometimes even mixing into a worse, more complex odor.

The Chemical Composition Behind the Smell

Most modern mothballs contain either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene (PDB)-both volatile organic compounds that turn from solid to gas at room temperature. These chemicals are designed to linger in enclosed spaces to repel moths, which is exactly why they’re so tough to eliminate from stored clothes and furniture. Their low vapor pressure means they release odor slowly over weeks or months, especially in dark, still environments like closets or attics.

1. The Fresh Air and Sunlight Method

What You’ll Need

• Outdoor clothesline or drying rack
• Sunny, dry day with low humidity
• Soft-bristle brush (for upholstered furniture)
• Clean cotton cloths (for spot wiping)

Step-by-step Process

For Clothes and Linens

1. Shake out each garment to release trapped air and loose particles.
2. Hang items individually on a line or drying rack in direct sunlight-avoid folding or bunching.
3. Rotate garments every 2–3 hours to expose all sides to sun and breeze.
4. Leave outside for 6–12 hours, depending on intensity of odor and fabric thickness.

For Furniture and Upholstery

1. Move the piece outdoors if possible; otherwise, place near an open window with strong cross-ventilation.
2. Use a soft brush to gently lift surface fibers and encourage gas release.
3. Wipe non-fabric surfaces (like wood frames) with a damp cloth to remove residual residue.
4. Let sit in sunlight for 4–8 hours, flipping cushions if removable.

Timeline and What to Expect

Light odors may fade in a single day. Heavily affected items might need 2–3 days of repeated airing. Sunlight helps break down odor molecules through UV exposure, while airflow carries away the gaseous compounds-this is one of the most natural ways to deodorize winter clothes without harsh chemicals.

When This Method Works Best

This approach shines for cotton, linen, wool, and other natural fibers that breathe well. It’s ideal for seasonal garments or furniture recently removed from storage, where the smell hasn’t fully saturated the material over years. Avoid using it on delicate silks or items prone to sun fading.

Also See: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Cigarette Smoke Smell Out

2. The Baking Soda Power Treatment

Materials Required

• Arm & Hammer baking soda (or any pure sodium bicarbonate)
• Large plastic bin or bathtub (for soaking)
• Laundry detergent (fragrance-free)
• Clean cloths or vacuum with upholstery attachment
• Old towels (for drying)

For Washable Clothing

Pre-Treatment Steps

1. Turn clothes inside out to expose inner seams where odor lingers.
2. Sprinkle ½ cup of baking soda directly onto damp (not wet) fabric, focusing on collars, cuffs, and hems.
3. Let sit for 30–60 minutes to allow absorption.

Washing Machine Instructions

1. Add 1 cup of baking soda to the drum along with your regular detergent.
2. Wash on the warmest setting safe for the fabric (check care labels).
3. During the rinse cycle, add another ½ cup of baking soda to further neutralize lingering molecules.
4. Air-dry in sunlight if possible-avoid the dryer until the smell is fully gone, as heat can set residual odor.

For Furniture and Mattresses

Application Process

1. Generously sprinkle baking soda over the entire surface-use more on cushions, crevices, and seams.
2. For mattresses, apply to both sides and edges; for sofas, lift cushions and treat underneath.
3. Let sit uncovered for at least 8 hours, ideally 24–48 hours for deep odor saturation.

Removal and Cleanup

1. Vacuum thoroughly using an upholstery brush attachment-go slowly and repeat passes.
2. Wipe hard surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any powder residue.
3. If odor persists, repeat the process before considering stronger methods.

Why Baking Soda Works So Well

Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) doesn’t just mask smells-it chemically neutralizes acidic and basic odor molecules, including those from naphthalene and PDB. Its porous microstructure traps volatile compounds, pulling them out of fabric and foam without damaging fibers, making it a go-to for safe, effective mothball smell removal from both clothes and furniture.

3. The White Vinegar Solution

Creating the Perfect Vinegar Mix

White vinegar is a natural deodorizer that neutralizes the stubborn chemical compounds in mothball odor without damaging most fabrics. For best results, always use distilled white vinegar with 5% acidity-nothing stronger or flavored. Keep it undiluted for pre-soaking, but dilute it for delicate surfaces.

For Machine-washable Items

Adding to Your Regular Wash Cycle

1. Add 1 cup of white vinegar directly to the washing machine’s rinse cycle compartment (not the detergent drawer).
2. Wash your clothes as usual with your regular detergent-vinegar won’t interfere with cleaning power.
3. Air dry if possible; sunlight adds an extra deodorizing boost for persistent mothball smell in clothing.

Creating a Pre-Soak Solution

1. Fill a clean bucket or bathtub with warm water.
2. Add 1–2 cups of white vinegar per gallon of water.
3. Submerge the affected garments completely and let them soak for at least 1 hour-up to 4 hours for heavy odors.
4. Rinse thoroughly or proceed directly to your washing machine.

For Upholstery and Non-washable Items

Spot Treatment Technique

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
2. Lightly mist the solution onto a hidden area first to test for discoloration.
3. If safe, spray affected zones-avoid soaking-and blot gently with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
4. Allow the area to air dry fully in a ventilated space. Repeat if needed for how to get mothball smell out of furniture.

Safety Precautions for Different Fabrics

Vinegar is generally safe for cotton, polyester, and blends, but it can damage silk, wool, and acetate. Always check the fabric care label before applying any liquid solution. For vintage or delicate items, skip vinegar and opt for a dry method like activated charcoal instead.

4. The Activated Charcoal Absorption Method

Choosing the Right Type Of Activated Charcoal

Not all charcoal is created equal. Use activated charcoal-not grill briquettes-which has been processed to have millions of microscopic pores that trap odor molecules. Look for loose granules or odor-absorbing bags labeled “activated carbon” or “activated charcoal” for safe, chemical-free mothball smell removal.

For Enclosed Spaces and Storage

Placement Strategy

• Place open containers or breathable charcoal sachets near (not directly on) stored clothes, inside drawers, closets, or garment bags.
• For furniture, tuck small charcoal pouches between cushions or under slipcovers.
• Ensure airflow around the charcoal-don’t seal it in plastic.

Duration and Effectiveness

Leave activated charcoal in place for 3–7 days for mild odors, or up to 2 weeks for deeply embedded smells. Activated charcoal doesn’t mask-it absorbs-so you’ll notice gradual but real progress in getting the mothball smell out of clothes and fabric over time.

For Direct Fabric Treatment

For small items like scarves or hats, place them in a large airtight container (like a clean plastic bin) with a bowl of activated charcoal. Seal the lid and leave for 48–72 hours. This creates a controlled environment where odors are drawn out efficiently-a great tactic for how to deodorize winter clothes stored with mothballs.

When to Replace Your Charcoal

Activated charcoal becomes saturated after 1–2 uses in high-odor environments. To refresh loose granules, spread them on a baking sheet and heat in an oven at 250°F for 1 hour-but most commercial odor bags are single-use. Replace when the smell returns or after 30 days of continuous use.

5. The Steam Cleaning Approach

Equipment You’ll Need

• A handheld or upright garment/fabric steamer (not a steam mop)
• Clean, distilled water (to prevent mineral buildup)
• Dry microfiber cloths
• Well-ventilated drying area

Steam Cleaning Clothes and Delicate Fabrics

Temperature Settings

Use low to medium heat for synthetics and medium for cotton or linen. Avoid high heat on silk, rayon, or wool-steam can shrink or distort them. The goal is to open fabric fibers gently so trapped naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene molecules (from mothballs) can escape.

Technique for Best Results

1. Hang the garment on a sturdy hanger.
2. Hold the steamer 2–3 inches away and move slowly from top to bottom.
3. Steam both sides if possible, focusing on seams and folds where odor lingers.
4. Immediately hang in a breezy area to dry-do not fold while damp.

Steam Cleaning Furniture and Mattresses

Targeting Seams and Crevices

Pay special attention to tufted areas, armrest seams, and mattress edges-common hiding spots for odor residue. Use the narrow nozzle attachment to direct steam into tight spaces without over-wetting. Move in slow, overlapping passes to lift the smell without soaking the padding.

Drying and Ventilation After Treatment

After steaming, open windows or use fans to dry the item completely within 2–4 hours. Moisture left behind can encourage mildew, which adds a new odor problem. Proper drying is essential for successful how to remove mothball smell from clothes and furniture using steam.

6. The Professional Dry Cleaning Option

When to Choose Professional Help

Professional dry cleaning is worth considering when you’re dealing with delicate fabrics, heirloom garments, or high-value furniture upholstery that can’t withstand home treatments. If home remedies like vinegar or baking soda haven’t lifted the mothball smell from clothes or fabric, a dry cleaner’s industrial-grade solvents and extraction methods may succeed where DIY efforts fall short. This option is especially useful for wool, silk, rayon, or any item labeled “dry clean only.”

Preparing Items for the Dry Cleaner

Before you head to the cleaner, do a light prep to improve results:

1. Brush off any visible residue or dust from the fabric surface.
2. Air the item outside for a few hours to reduce the initial odor load-this helps the cleaner work more efficiently.
3. Place the item in a breathable cotton bag (not plastic) to avoid trapping moisture during transport.

What to Tell Your Cleaner

Be specific. Don’t just say “it smells bad.” Instead, explain that the item was stored with mothballs and has a persistent naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene odor. Mention how long it was exposed and what home treatments you’ve already tried. Cleaners trained in odor remediation can adjust their process based on this intel, using specialized additives or extended aeration cycles.

Special Considerations for Vintage Items

Vintage or antique textiles often have fragile fibers and dyes that degrade with harsh chemicals. Ask if your cleaner has experience with vintage clothing or period furniture. Some use gentler, petroleum-based solvents instead of standard perchloroethylene, which can be less damaging. Also, request hand-finishing instead of machine pressing to preserve delicate details. To maintain the charm of thrifted vintage furniture, it’s important to consider how to deodorize it effectively. There are many safe and natural methods for deodorizing vintage items without damaging their integrity.

Cost Vs. DIY Solutions

Dry cleaning typically costs $10–$25 per garment and $100–$300 for upholstered furniture, depending on size and location. Compare that to DIY methods that use pantry staples like baking soda or vinegar for under $5. If the item holds sentimental or monetary value, the investment in professional mothball smell removal is often justified-but for everyday pieces, home treatments usually suffice.

Success Rates and Expectations

Success varies. Most dry cleaners can significantly reduce or fully eliminate mothball odor from clothes, especially if the exposure was short-term. For furniture, results are less predictable—deeply embedded smells in padding or wood frames may linger. Cleaning and deodorizing upholstered furniture is essential to maintaining a fresh and inviting space. Strong odors can often be tackled with appropriate techniques and products that eliminate unpleasant smells without damaging the fabric. Always ask for a “test spot” on hidden areas of upholstery to gauge effectiveness before committing to full treatment.

7. The Commercial Odor Eliminator Strategy

Choosing Enzyme-based Vs. Chemical Eliminators

Not all odor removers are created equal. Enzyme-based formulas break down odor molecules at a biological level and are ideal for organic residues-though mothball odor is chemical, some advanced enzyme products tackle volatile organic compounds (VOCs) effectively. Chemical neutralizers, like those containing cyclodextrin or activated oxygen, trap or oxidize odor molecules. For how to remove mothball smell from fabric, look for products labeled “VOC-neutralizing” or “chemical odor eliminator,” not just “air freshener.”

Application Methods

For Fabrics and Clothing

1. Test the product on an inconspicuous seam or hem first.
2. Spray or mist evenly from 6–8 inches away until lightly damp-never soak.
3. Let air-dry completely in a well-ventilated space, preferably outdoors.
4. Repeat if needed, but wait 24 hours between applications to avoid fiber damage.

For Hard Surfaces and Furniture

1. Wipe down wood or metal frames with a cloth dampened with the odor eliminator (diluted if directed).
2. For upholstery, use a fine-mist sprayer to lightly coat the surface-focus on seams and crevices where vapors accumulate.
3. Let sit for the time specified on the label (usually 15–30 minutes), then ventilate the room thoroughly.
4. Use a dry microfiber cloth to blot any excess if residue appears.

Safety Considerations

Ventilation Requirements

Always use commercial odor eliminators in a well-ventilated area. Open windows and use fans during and after application. Many chemical formulas release fumes that can irritate eyes, throat, or lungs-proper airflow helps disperse these quickly and safely. Additionally, incorporating plants known for their air-purifying properties can further enhance your indoor environment. Some of the best plants not only purify the air but also help reduce odors, making your space more pleasant and healthy.

Pet and Child Safety

Keep pets and children away during application and until surfaces are completely dry. Store bottles out of reach. Choose non-toxic, biodegradable formulas when possible—look for EPA Safer Choice or Green Seal certification. Even “natural” commercial sprays can contain sensitizing agents, so err on the side of caution with vulnerable household members. For those concerned about safety, the best homemade spider spray is one that is both effective and safe for kids and pets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Why Masking With Fragrances Backfires

Spraying perfume, Febreze, or scented sprays over mothball odor doesn’t remove it-it layers a new smell on top. The result is a confusing, often worse chemical cocktail that’s harder to eliminate later. True mothball smell removal requires neutralizing or absorbing the source molecules, not covering them up.

The Essential Oil Trap

While lavender or tea tree oil may smell pleasant, they don’t neutralize naphthalene. In fact, their oils can stain delicate fabrics or leave residues that attract dust. Using essential oils for how to get mothball smell out of clothes is a common but ineffective detour that delays real solutions.

Rushing the Process

Mothball vapors bond deeply to fibers and foam. Expecting one quick wash or a single airing to fix it sets you up for disappointment. Patience is non-negotiable-most successful removal strategies require multiple treatments over several days.

Mixing Cleaning Solutions

Never combine vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or commercial odor removers. Some mixtures create toxic gases (like chloramine from bleach + ammonia) or damage fabric integrity. Stick to one method at a time, and rinse thoroughly before trying another. It’s also essential to consider how to remove smells from clothes effectively. Simple household products can help neutralize odors and keep your garments fresh.

Ignoring Fabric Care Labels

Washing a “dry clean only” wool coat in vinegar or baking soda can cause shrinking, fading, or texture damage. Always check care tags before attempting any how to remove mothball smell from clothes technique—preserving the item matters as much as deodorizing it. To effectively maintain the integrity of your wool cashmere items, consider how to naturally protect them from moths. Natural repellents can help safeguard your favorite garments from unwanted pests without harsh chemicals.

When to Accept That an Item Can’t Be Saved

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the odor is too entrenched-especially in foam cushions, particleboard furniture, or decades-old textiles. If an item still reeks after three different thorough treatments, it may be permanently compromised. In such cases, retiring it protects your other belongings from cross-contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Exposure to Mothball Smell Harmful to Health?

Yes, prolonged exposure to mothball odors can be harmful because mothballs typically contain pesticides like naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which release toxic fumes. These chemicals can cause respiratory issues, headaches, or skin irritation, especially in children, pets, or individuals with sensitivities. Always ventilate the area well during deodorizing and wear gloves if handling items directly to minimize risk.

How Can I Prevent Mothball Odor When Storing Clothes and Furniture?

To avoid mothball smell altogether, use natural alternatives like cedar blocks, lavender sachets, or airtight containers for storage. These methods repel moths without harsh chemicals. For long-term storage, ensure items are clean and completely dry before sealing them away, as moisture can trap odors and attract pests.

Are These Deodorizing Methods Safe for Delicate Fabrics Like Silk or Wool?

Most methods can be adapted for delicate fabrics, but always test a small, hidden area first. For instance, with silk or wool, opt for gentle approaches like airing out or using baking soda sparingly, as vinegar or steam might damage fibers. When laundering these materials, particularly silk and wool, a hand wash is often the best choice. Check fabric care labels and avoid harsh rubbing or high heat to prevent shrinkage or discoloration.

Final Words

The mothball smell doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture in your home or wardrobe. With these seven proven methods, you now have a complete toolkit to tackle even the most stubborn odors. Remember that patience is key-some items may need multiple treatments or a combination of methods to achieve complete odor removal.

Start with the gentlest approach first, like fresh air and sunlight, before moving to more intensive treatments. Each method we’ve covered works by targeting the chemical compounds that create that distinctive mothball smell, so you’re addressing the root cause rather than just masking it. Don’t get discouraged if the first attempt doesn’t completely eliminate the odor; persistence pays off.

Ready to reclaim your favorite clothes and furniture from that overwhelming mothball scent? Pick the method that best suits your situation and give it a try. For more practical home solutions and wellness tips that actually work, check out Savvy Dwelling where we continue sharing research-backed advice for your everyday challenges.

Additional Resources for You:

• How to Get Rid of Mothball Smell in Fabric—For Good! • Everyday Cheapskate
• How to Get Rid of a Mothball Smell
• Eliminating Mothball Smell from Clothes | ClothesLyne
• How to Get Mothball Smell Out of Clothes – Nori Press
• How Remove Mothball Smell From Clothes | Classic Drycleaners