For the most part, skunks are not a nuisance as they mostly keep to themselves but they are always a threat to spray a person or pet if they feel threatened. Pets are especially prone to getting “skunked” because other animals peak their curiosity and they are unaware of the possibility of getting sprayed. This spray has a pungent, unpleasant sulfur-like odor that will cling to your clothing, hair, and skin and it can be difficult to get rid of. The following is a recipe for a solution that can effectively clean the spray from you, your pet, or your clothes and remove the odor.
Myth: Tomato juice will remove skunk smell
Many people believe that bathing in tomato juice will eliminate the smell of the skunk spray but it is ineffective because it cannot break down the oils from the spray. Other remedies such as citrus juice, perfume, and air fresheners are also ineffective for getting rid of the skunk smell.
Get Rid of Skunk Smell Recipe
To create an effective solution for skunk spray, mix:
- 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide
- ¼ cup of baking soda
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of dishwashing liquid into a bucket
*Make sure this solution is mixed well before using it
How To Use The solution
This solution can be used on your body, hair, and clothes as well as your pets to eliminate the skunk odor. If your body or hair has been sprayed, give yourself a bath in the solution and rinse in the shower. You can wash your hair in the solution as well but be careful to avoid getting it in your eyes. If the skunk spray got in your eyes, immediately flush your eyes out with water. This process may have to be repeated several times to fully eliminate the skunk smell.
Skunk Removal From Clothes
If your clothes have been sprayed and have the skunk smell, they can be washed using this solution. Make sure to wear rubber gloves when washing your clothes and scrub them in a bucket but be aware that the solution can slightly bleach the fabric. This solution can also be used to remove the smell from your pet. It is best to wash your pet outside and be careful not to get the solution in its eyes as you wash. Work the solution into each section of your pet’s fur and let it soak in for several minutes. After letting the solution soak, rinse your pet with a hose and repeat the process if the smell is still lingering.
Additional Important Notes:
Make sure to keep this solution out of yours and your pet’s eyes and because this is an unstable solution, it should never be stored and must be diluted with water before getting poured down the drain.
As soon as you suspect you may have a skunk infestation, call us immediately at 847-464-1861 for removal. We are trained professionals and equipped to deal with skunk exclusion and removal, including humane live animal trapping (never poisons!). Click to read more about skunk removal services from Attic Solutions.