Skunks don’t mean to stink things up. Their spray is a defense mechanism that leaves an awful smell that is hard to get rid of. However, it is possible to get rid of that awful smell. Dead skunks leave an even worse aroma. When professionals are called to remove a skunk, there can be an odor in the aftermath of the removal. But, there are steps to take to get rid of the smell. The first step is to call the animal removal specialists to find and remove the dead or living skunk.
First, Call In the Specialists
Live skunks can have rabies or other diseases, and they can bite and spray up to 10 feet. Professionals at Animal Control Specialists know how to safely deal with both living and dead skunks and other vermin causing problems for homeowners and their families. Once the skunk is removed, it is time to rid the house of that awful spray odor that permeates everything.
Take 8 Steps to Get Rid of Skunk Odor
There are eight steps to getting rid of the skunk odor.
- Remove and launder all the fabrics that are affected by the small. This can include bedding, drapes, pillows, towels, clothing, and more. Use warm, not hot, water, and include a degreaser to remove the oil. Hang the fabric to dry rather than using a dryer to avoid the heat. Soaking clothes in a solution of four parts water and one part vinegar before washing is a big help. Adding 1/2 cup baking soda to the laundry detergent can also help.
- Open all the windows and doors to air the home after the outside air is clear of the skunk smell.
- Use vinegar to spray down the home walls and other surfaces and mop the floors. The vinegar is acidic and will break down the skunk spray oil. One part vinegar to three parts water is a good solution to use in a spray bottle. Remember to use rubber gloves, an apron, and protective eye gear while working.
- Deoderize your dog or cat before allowing them into the house if they have been sprayed and smell. One recipe for pet odor removal is one-quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/4th cup baking soda, and one teaspoon laundry or dish detergent. Mix these ingredients in an open container. A large dog or an adult human may need more than one recipe for this solution. For extreme skunk odor, a person might need to increase the baking soda to 1/2 cup and the detergent to one tablespoon. After applying and scrubbing the animal or person, rinse the solution off.
- Deodorize Yourself. A person who has gotten in the way of skunk spray needs to get the smelly oil off their skin immediately and use a shampoo for oily hair to get the smell out of their hair. The hydrogen peroxide/baking soda solution can work, or use a degreasing soap or dish soap on the skin. A person can also take a 15- to 20-minute bath with two to four cups of baking soda added to the bathwater. Then, rinse all the solution off before drying your skin and hair.
- The carpets, upholstered furniture, and other soft furnishings in the home should be steam cleaned with the appropriate cleaning solution.
- Don’t forget to wash all pet beds, scratching posts, toys, and all hard surfaces with a cleaning solution that includes a deodorizing ingredient such as a beach, baking soda, or vinegar.
- Finally, let the sunshine in. Open curtains and blinds. Sunshine oxidizes skunk odor.
Dealing with skunk smell is never easy or pleasant, but there are proven ways to deal with the problem. Use the home remedies here and don’t be afraid to ask an expert for additional help.
