How To Get Rid of Skunk Spray (Updated 2021)

Skunk spray is notorious for being a terrible, persistent smell that doesn’t easily go away. 

There are many myths about how to get rid of skunk spray, and the job isn’t easy. 

In today’s post, we’ll be sharing with you how to get rid of skunk spray once and for all so that you’re prepared if you get “skunked on,” or you know what to do if you’ve already been sprayed. 

To watch the video version of this post complete with incredible skunk footage, click HERE now. 

You can also download the audio-only podcast by clicking the download button above.  

Myths: Tomato Juice

One common myth about removing skunk spray is that you have to bathe in tomato juice. 

This simply doesn’t work, despite everyone saying that it does. 

The reason one may think that it works is because it prevents YOU (or the person who was skunked) from smelling the skunk spray after taking a tomato juice bath. 

The skunk spray is still there, and it’s hardly been removed. 

Other remedies on par with the idea of bathing in tomato juice do not work either. 

How To Actually Get Rid of Skunk Smell

If you or your clothes have been “skunked,” then here’s how to truly get rid of the skunk spray. 

It is imperative to get rid of skunk spray as soon as possible. The longer it lingers in your skin or property, the harder it will be to get rid of eventually. Act fast!

Get 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1 teaspoon liquid detergent. Mix it in a large, open container and apply immediately. This can safely be used on children, pets, clothes, and furniture.

If the smell doesn't go away, repeat until it does.

Do NOT put this mix in a closed container because it could explode. It is otherwise safe; just do not put it in a closed container or store it for a long period of time.

Skunk Spray Stuck in the Air

Once you get rid of the skunk spray, you may find that it sticks in the air. For example, if you went home, it may get stuck in your home.

If skunk spray is stuck in the air, boil vinegar in a pan. 

The entire home will smell like vinegar, and once the vinegar leaves the skunk spray will too. 

You can use fans, open windows, etc. to get rid of the vinegar smell after boiling it.

Extra Tips


Remove skunk spray as quickly as possible. The longer it lingers, the longer it may stay.

If possible, go outside to get rid of the skunk spray. This way you don't risk a smell getting stuck in any furniture, or in the air inside the home.

Finally, make sure to have a friend or family member with you while getting rid of the skunk smell. 

You might get rid of it partially, but not fully. 

You may not notice that it still lingers because of the strong smell, but someone else certainly will. 

Make sure it's completely gone before going out in public!

Wildlife x Team International

We at Wildlife x Team International specialize in safe & responsible removal of wildlife & pests. 

If you think that you have a wildlife or pest infestation (ie. skunks), then please call us at 855-WILDLIFE or visit www.wildlifexteam.com for more information. 

Thanks! 
-Wildlife x Team International