How Long Does It Take for Skunk Smell to Go Away?

If not removed with the right products, skunk smell can take several days to go away. If there is a dead skunk and it is not removed, it can take as long as two weeks to dissipate.

When in defensive mode, skunks spray an odor on anything in range. The oily liquid is emitted from ducts and can be sprayed up to 15 feet away. The spray contains sulfur, which contributes to its strong smell. Skunk odor can be somewhat difficult to remove, but it is possible with a few methods.

If the odor is coming from a dead skunk, the carcass should be removed from the area and disposed of properly. If left to decompose, the odor can continue for several weeks. If the odor is in an enclosed area, one should open windows, doors or vents to ventilate the area properly. Keeping the doors closed can cause the smell to stay trapped in and remain longer. Air fresheners also go a long way in helping reduce the odor. A few household items can be mixed together to eliminate the odor. Hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and dish soap added to a spray bottle is a simple, yet inexpensive way to deal with the odor. Users should lightly spray the area in question with the mixture. This can be repeated until the odor disappears completely. The mixture can also be applied to the skin to remove odor from a person, or added to the washing machine to remove it from clothing and other items.