How to get rid of skunk smells, according to chemists
Skunks are on the move.
Skunks normally like to keep to themselves, but the slightest bit of fear can have the nocturnal animals unleash its primary defense mechanism: a nasty-smelling spray.
If you or your pet have been sprayed by a skunk, here's how to get rid of the smell, according to the American Chemistry Society (ACS).
GETTING RID OF SKUNK SMELLS
While some claim tomato juice, oatmeal, and beer can be effective ways to combat skunk smell, experts say that isn't the case.
After a prolonged period of smelling skunk spray, our noses fatigue and become "numb" to the smell ACS says. When a new odor is introduced, like one of the ones mentioned above, it may overpower the skunk smell, but it isn't actually combating it.
The best way to get rid of the smell is through oxidation.
This process transforms the smelly chemicals present in skunk spray into odorless ones.
RELATED: Watch for these skunk warning signs to avoid getting sprayed
SKUNK SPRAY RECIPE FOR YOUR PET
Here's a tried and true skunk spray recipe you can use on your pet, according to ACS:
1/4 cup of baking soda
1 teaspoon of baby shampoo
1 quart of hydrogen peroxide
Lather on your pet and let it sit for five minutes then rinse, but be advised the concoction could lighten your pet's fur.
ACS doesn't advise using this method on people.
For humans, the best line of defense is taking as many warm, soapy showers as it takes to get rid of the smell.
VIDEO: MORE TIPS ON DE-SKUNKING YOUR PET
Source: American Chemical Society
Header image credit: Getty Images
