Smelling mothballs when none are present can be a puzzling and sometimes unsettling experience. This phenomenon leads many to wonder about its origins, ranging from actual chemical exposure to more complex internal factors. Understanding the different reasons behind this distinct odor can help clarify whether the smell is from an external source or an internal perception.
Understanding Genuine Mothball Odors
Mothballs are common household products designed to protect stored items from pests like moths and their larvae. The characteristic scent primarily comes from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, solid chemicals that undergo sublimation, transitioning directly into a gas at room temperature.
Mothball fumes are effective pesticides, but they also have a strong, lingering odor that can permeate fabrics and surrounding environments. This smell can cling to old clothing, blankets, and furniture stored in attics, basements, or chests. The persistence of the odor is due to the chemicals slowly releasing into the air and their ability to absorb into porous materials like wood, drywall, and upholstery. Even after mothballs are removed, the scent can remain for weeks, months, or years, especially in areas with limited airflow.
Experiencing Phantom Mothball Scents
When the smell of mothballs is perceived without any actual source in the environment, it is known as phantosmia, or an olfactory hallucination. This condition involves detecting an odor that is not physically present, and is more commonly described as unpleasant, such as burnt, foul, rotten, or chemical smells. Phantosmia can affect one or both nostrils and may occur intermittently or persistently.
Various medical and physiological factors can contribute to phantom smells. Common causes include issues within the nasal cavity, such as sinus infections, nasal polyps, or inflammation from colds and allergies. Head injuries and certain neurological conditions are also linked to phantosmia, including migraines, seizures (particularly temporal lobe seizures), strokes, Parkinson’s disease, and, less commonly, brain tumors or Alzheimer’s disease. Dental problems, certain medications, and even post-viral infections, such as COVID-19, have been reported as potential triggers for these phantom odors. The perception of a chemical smell like mothballs can be a manifestation of these underlying health concerns.
Addressing Persistent Mothball Smells
For genuine mothball odors, effective removal involves airing out affected items and spaces. Ventilating the area by opening windows and using fans can help dissipate the chemical fumes. For clothing and textiles, washing with white vinegar or baking soda can neutralize the odor, as these natural deodorizers help break down the chemical residues. Placing bowls of activated charcoal, coffee grounds, or baking soda in affected rooms can also absorb lingering smells from the air and porous surfaces.
If the mothball smell is phantosmia and persists for more than a few weeks, seek medical advice. A primary care provider can conduct an initial evaluation and may refer to specialists such as an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) or a neurologist. These specialists can perform examinations, including physical assessments of the head and neck, nasal endoscopies, or imaging tests like CT or MRI scans, to identify any underlying conditions. Treatment for phantosmia often involves addressing the root cause, which can lead to the resolution of the phantom smell.