This is the third of a three-part series on skunks: providing an overview of skunks, how to prevent or control skunks, and how to get rid of the odor and what to do if you or your pet gets sprayed by a skunk.

If you ask most people how to get rid of skunk odor, the answer you'll probably receive most often is: Take a bath in tomato juice! Unfortunately it doesn't really work.

The Tomato Juice Myth

According to Chemistry of Skunk Spray, by William F.

Wood, Department of Chemistry, Humboldt State University, Arcata, Calif., "it seems to work because at high doses of skunk spray the human nose quits smelling the odor, and the tomato juice odor is instead detected. (olfactory fatigue). When this happens, the odor of tomato juice can easily be detected. A person suffering olfactory fatigue to skunk spray will swear that the skunk odor is gone and was neutralized by the tomato juice. Another person coming on the scene at this point will readily confirm that the skunk spray has not been neutralized by the tomato juice."

A Home Recipe to Get Rid of Skunk Odor

What has been proven to work, according to a variety of sources, is a home concoction developed by Paul Krebaum and published Chemical & Engineering News in 1993.

• 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 1 teaspoon liquid detergent

Mix in a large, open container and use immediately. According to Statewide IPM Program, Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California, it can be safely used on people, pets, clothing and furniture.

However, the mix cannot be covered or stored, as it becomes volatile and can explode a closed container. To discard leftover solution, dilute it heavily with water and pour down the drain.

Retail Products That Work

Experts from Cornell University, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and other universities and government agencies also recommend over- the-counter products that contain neutroleum alpha to get rid of skunk smells on pets. These products are available at many pet stores; concentrates can also be purchased from a USDA supply depot, however because the chemical is toxic, it must be diluted and precautions taken.

Getting Rid of Skunk Smells In the Home

If people, pets, or items do come in or get brought into the home before being de-skunked, you may find that the smell lingers in the air. To get rid of it, you can boil vinegar in a pan. The home will now smell like vinegar, but once that smell is gone, the skunk odor should be gone as well.

Cleaning Buildings and Decks

To get skunk smells out of buildings, wooden decks and porches, etc., mix 1 cup of liquid bleach in a gallon of water. Because it can bleach surfaces, you may want to try it on a small spot first, if there is concerned of discoloration.

De-skunking Tips

• Always work to remove the smell from people, pets and items as quickly and thoroughly as possible. The longer the odor is on anything, the more difficult it will be to remove.
• As much as possible, work outside to keep from bringing the smell into the home or getting the oil on household items.
• Shower thoroughly in hot water after using any de-skunking solution.
• If clothing or other items have been heavily sprayed, you may want to simply discard them, as fabric can hold skunk odor for a very long time.

The Final Word

It is unlikely that any solution will completely eliminate the smell the first time. It may take several times or a length of time for the smell to completely dissipate.

Part 1: All About Skunks

Part 2: Skunk Control and Prevention