What Gets Skunk Smell Out?

Getting sprayed by a skunk is a dreaded experience due to the lingering, pungent smell. Fortunately, there are several ways to eliminate skunk smell from your home, car, clothes, and even pets. This article explains in detail what causes the skunk smell, how to neutralize it, and how to prevent skunk encounters.

Understanding Skunk Spray

The foul smell of skunk spray is primarily due to specific compounds known as “thiols” or “mercaptans.” These sulfur and hydrogen atom compounds typically have a very strong odor. Skunk spray also contains “thioacetates,” which can transform into smell-producing thiols when exposed to water. This explains why a pet that gets sprayed may start to smell skunky again after a bath.

Neutralizing Skunk Smell with Household Remedies

There are several household remedies that can effectively neutralize skunk smell:

1. Hydrogen Peroxide, Baking Soda, and Dish Soap Mixture: This solution changes the odorous thiols into odorless acids, chemically neutralizing the skunk odor. Mix 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1-2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap. Apply the mixture to the affected area and let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
2. Vinegar: Another powerful natural disinfectant, vinegar can absorb and neutralize foul odors. Fill several small bowls with white vinegar and leave them around the affected area for 24 to 48 hours.
3. Baking Soda: This alkaline substance reacts with acidic odors to neutralize them. Sprinkle baking soda around the affected area, and the odor will start to dissipate.

Commercial Skunk Odor Removal Products

Several commercial products are designed to neutralize skunk odor, such as Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover, Skunk-Off, Odor-Mute, and Earth Friendly Products. These products work by neutralizing the sulfur-based compounds that cause the skunk odor.

What to Do Immediately After Getting Sprayed

If you’ve been sprayed by a skunk, it’s important to act quickly. Take a bath or shower as soon as possible using liberal amounts of soap. If the skunk spray has gotten onto your clothes, wash them with regular laundry detergent mixed with a half-cup of baking soda.

Avoid water as much as possible as skunk spray contains thioacetates, which can morph into smell-producing thiols when they come into contact with water or humidity.

Preventive Measures

To avoid getting sprayed by a skunk, be cautious when walking after dark, keep your dog on a tight leash, make your presence known by talking or singing softly when you encounter a skunk, and avoid making sudden movements. Keep your property clean and free of garbage, pet food, and spilled birdseed to discourage skunks from entering your yard.

Removing Skunk Smell from Pets

To remove skunk smell from your pet without causing harm, you can use a homemade solution or commercial products. The homemade solution is made from 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of liquid hand soap. Commercial products such as Nature’s Miracle Skunk Odor Remover and Skunk Off are also available.

Health Risks Associated with Skunk Smell

Prolonged exposure to skunk smell can lead to irritation, nausea, vomiting, and respiratory problems. In dogs, skunk spray can rarely cause a serious condition in which the red blood cells are destroyed, known as Heinz body anemia.

In conclusion, while getting sprayed by a skunk is unpleasant, there are numerous ways to neutralize the odor. Whether you prefer household remedies or commercial products, the key is to act quickly and thoroughly clean the affected areas.