How to Get Rid of Skunk Odor Fast

Skunks are nocturnal.

Skunks can be found in a variety of areas, including forests, suburban neighborhoods and cities. Skunks generally cross humans when they are searching for food, insects and small rodents or shelter. Skunks can be dangerous, as they are susceptible to rabies. Moreover, if provoked, skunks will discharge a nauseating odor in self defense. Fortunately, this odor can be removed quickly from clothes, pets and household items.

Things You'll Need

• 1 qt. three-percent hydrogen peroxide
• 1/4 cup baking soda
• 1 tsp. dish detergent
• Laundry detergent
• Vinegar
• Bleach
• Bucket
• Washcloth
• Pet shampoo to remove skunk odor

Instructions

1. Mix 1 quart of three-percent hydrogen peroxide with 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1 tsp. of dish detergent in an open container.

2. Use it as a "shampoo" if your hair was sprayed; leave the mixture on your hair for five minutes and then rinse. Rub the mixture on your body where you were sprayed and then rinse off. Avoid getting the mixture in your eyes or mouth.

3. Put your clothes in the washing machine and add detergent and 1 cup of vinegar. Wash and dry as usual.

4. Mix 1 part bleach to 9 parts water in a bucket.

5. Dampen a washcloth with the mixture and wipe any sprayed structures, such as a wall or steps, that will not stain from the bleach.

6. Wash any sprayed pets with a shampoo specifically designed to remove skunk odor, such as Skunk Off.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't attempt to make up a batch of the hydrogen peroxide and baking soda solution ahead of time to store it. The oxygen in the peroxide could be released and cause the container to explode.

References

• University of Kentucky: Managing Skunk Problems in Kentucky
• Cornell University Cooperative Extension: How Can I Get Rid of Skunk Smell?