How to Remove Skunk Odor From the Air

Skunks give off a powerful and lingering odor.

Skunk odor is unpleasant and lingers. If your pet goes outside and rolls in a skunk or is sprayed by a skunk and comes back inside, the smell can transfer to walls and furniture in the home. Functioning and relaxing in a building that smells like skunks is difficult. Getting rid of the smell takes time and work. Washing all surfaces is a requirement. If your dog is the cause of the smell, quarantining the animal outside or sending to the groomer's for a bath is a good idea.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Bleach
• Degreaser
• Laundry detergent

Instructions

1. Wash all surfaces of the area affected with bleach or vinegar including floors, walls and ceilings.

2. Wash all clothing and bedding in cool water with extra detergent. Add a degreaser. Warm water will create steam that will release the smell back into the building.

3. Purchase a skunk-removal commercial product. These can be purchased from local veterinarian's offices and kennels. Follow the instructions on the product for treatment. These odor removers work to remove the odor by breaking down the oil in the skunk smell.

4. Light candles and spray room deodorizer if the smell persists.

5. Open all the windows and repeat the process if the smell does not dissipate.

References

• University of Nebraska; Removing Skunk Odor; Stephen Vantassel, et al.; June, 2005
• The Skunk Stripe: Skunk Odor Removal
• Rutherford County: Removing Skunk Odors

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish