How to Remove the Skunk Smell From the Inside of a Car

Remove a skunk odor from your car by allowing fresh air into your vehicle.

Few things are more annoying than discovering a strong, prevalent skunk odor inside your vehicle. According to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture, a skunk odor can last two to four months if not removed from the sprayed object in a timely manner. Remove the skunk smell from the inside of your car immediately upon noticing the odor to prevent the smell from soaking into your vehicle.

Things You'll Need

• Vehicle shampoo/soap
• Rags
• Dry mustard
• Store-brand carpet deodorizer
• Vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Park your vehicle in a shady area. Open or roll down your car's doors and windows to allow your vehicle's interior to air out. Airing your vehicle in a hot, sunny spot increases the strength of the skunk smell.

2. Wash your entire car, especially the area underneath your car, very thoroughly. Skunk odor that is prevalent on or under your car can seep through your vehicle's vents and into your vehicle. Wash the exterior of your vehicle with soap and cool water. The University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service recommends thoroughly washing the area under your car with a dry mustard and water mixture. To create the mixture, dissolve one cup of dry mustard in a bucket of water.

3. Spray a store-brand carpet deodorizer inside your car. Read and follow all label directions carefully before use. Store-brand carpet deodorizers are available at automotive stores.

4. Pour vanilla extract on a dry rag until it's thoroughly saturated with vanilla. Place the rag in an open container and put it in the back seat. According to the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service, vanilla extract can help reduce or remove skunk odor from a car.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to find a carpet deodorizer that contains baking soda as an ingredient. Baking soda is a leading ingredient used to fight strong smells, such as skunk odor.

• You may have to repeat Steps 2 to 4 multiple times before the skunk odor fades from the interior of your vehicle.

References

• University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture: Dealing with Skunks and Odor Abatement
• University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service: Odors: What's That Smell?