Rinse the affected area with clean water as soon as possible
Wash with a skunk-specific deodorizing product if available
If not available, use a homemade mix: 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide + 1/4 cup baking soda + 1–2 teaspoons dish soap
Apply the mixture to the skunked area (avoid eyes and mouth)
Let sit for 5–10 minutes
Rinse thoroughly with clean water
Repeat if odor remains
For fabrics (clothes, blankets, towels): wash separately using hot water and heavy-duty detergent, and add baking soda to the wash
For persistent fabric odor: soak in an enzyme cleaner or repeat the peroxide/baking soda wash (only if fabric is colorfast)
For skin or fur: repeat washing until odor is gone; avoid re-exposure before it’s fully removed
For hard surfaces (concrete, tile, siding): scrub with detergent and water, then use an odor-neutralizing cleaner or enzyme cleaner
For carpets and upholstery: blot, then use an enzyme cleaner; let dry completely and repeat if needed
For vehicles: clean affected areas with detergent, then use an enzyme cleaner and allow to fully dry
Ventilate the area (open windows/doors, run fans)
Wash pet bedding and any items the animal contacted using hot water and detergent, and dry completely
Discard items that cannot be effectively cleaned (especially porous materials that retain odor)
Avoid using bleach on skin or fur
Avoid mixing peroxide-based solutions with other cleaners (especially bleach or ammonia)
Keep pets indoors and away from treated areas until fully rinsed/dry