It seems inevitable – a skunk on your property means someone or something is bound to get sprayed! Skunk spray odor can last up to a month if not treated. In fact, if a skunk has died near your home, the odor will last much longer. Skunk spray is made of a mixture of sulfur and alcohol and is a bit oily. This scent is difficult to remove and at-home remedies, like tomato juice, are actually ineffective. If you, your home, or pet has become the victim of a skunk’s stinky spray, follow these tips to learn how to get rid of skunk smell.
How To Get Rid Of Skunk Smell On A Pet
First, keep your pet outdoors to keep the smell from lingering in your home. Next, mix up a solution to clean your pet. Mix one quart 3% hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda, and one teaspoon liquid dish soap. Use this mixture immediately, as it may explode if left to sit. After creating the mixture, rub it through your pet’s fur, and don’t leave it on for very long because it can cause bleaching. Rinse your pet thoroughly. Finally, wash your pet with pet shampoo and conditioner and rinse clean. Your pet will be smelling sweet and skunk-free!
How To Get Rid Of Skunk Smell On Yourself
Assuming a skunk has sprayed you, follow the same steps above. You may need assistance from someone else. To clean your clothing, immediately remove them and soak the clothing in a hydrogen peroxide solution (1 part hydrogen peroxide to 6 parts water) for two hours. Then wash your clothes in hot water with the strongest laundry soap you have. Make sure to wash the clothes alone, so your other laundry doesn’t pick up the skunk stench. Finally, dry them outside in the sunlight to help neutralize any remaining scent.
How To Get Rid Of Skunk Smell In Your Home
If you’re not sure where the skunk smell in your home is coming from, try this method. Leave bowls of white vinegar around your home in the strongest smelling rooms. The vinegar should absorb most of the odor in about a day. Be sure to keep your windows open and let the scent waft outwards. Sunlight can also help neutralize odors, so keep the windows open to let in the sunshine. In addition, keep fans going throughout your home to disperse the odor outdoors. You can even go as far as shampooing your carpets and deep cleaning fabric on chairs and sofas. Finally, finish up with air fresheners that have deodorizing action.
If you discover skunks on or near your property, call pest control immediately to have them safely removed.