INTRODUCTION

Skunk odor is caused by a highly odorous oily secretion that the skunk uses as a defense mechanism. The odor comes from sulfur compounds known as thiols (formerly call mercaptans) and thioacetate derivatives of these thiols. Different species of skunk produce slightly different variations of these compounds. The odor of thiols can be detected in concetrations as low as 10 - 20 parts per trillion!

In order to neutralize the odor of skunk spray, the chemicals in the secretion must be changed to a different type of molecule that does not produce an odor. Oxidizing the thiols forms odorless sulfonic acid. Hydrogen peroxide and chlorine bleach can be used as the oxidizers for some surfaces. There is no single remedy for skunk odor. Depending on the surfaces affected, it may require a variety of methods and several steps to remove the odor completely.

NOTE: The type of surface you are dealing with will determine the procedure and chemicals that you use in removing skunk odor. Not all recommendation are safe on all fabrics. Choose the products and methods suitable for the fabrics you are deodorizing.

NOTE: Ventilate the area well before, during, and after the deodorization process.

Quick Guide

PROCEDURE Remove sources of odor. Apply Hydrocide. Clean using appropriate agents. Repeat Hydrocide application if necessary. Use Ozone or Vaportek if needed. PRODUCTS NEEDED Hydrocide Zone Perfect End Zone Avenge Fabric Pre-Spray Avenge HD Fabric Avenge Clean Rinse Citrus Solv Boost All Thermal Fog Ozone Generator Vapor Shark 3X Industrial Membrane

PROCEDURE

TEXTILES

STEP 1:
Remove sources of odor. Items of low value, such as some clothing, old blankets, camping gear, etc. are more easily replaced than restored. If appropriate to the fabric, clothing can be soaked in a solution of 1 cup of chlorine bleach per gallon of water, then laundered.

STEP 2:
Apply a saturation spray of Hydrocide diluted according to label directions.

STEP 3:
Clean carpet or upholstery as usual. The recommended pre-spray/Extraction combination for carpet is Zone Perfect and End Zone. Use Avenge or Avenge HD Fabric Pre-spray and Avenge Clean Rinse on upholstery. If the material received a strong application of skunk spray, boost your pre-spray with 1 ounce of Citrus Solv and 1 ounce of Boost All per gallon of water. Boost All is a great oxidizer. It can also be added to your rinse water if needed.

STEP 4:
Repeat step 2 if required. Rinse.

NOTE:
Sometimes unoccupied areas will need to be treated with ozone. Occupied areas can be treated with the Vaportek Vapor Shark using 3x industrial membranes.

HARD SURFACE

STEP 1:
Apply a solution of chlorine bleach diluted at one cup per gallon of water to the contaminated area. This can be wiped on or sprayed. Pre-test in an inconspicuous area first. Bleach is harmful to some surfaces and may cause color loss.

For some surfaces you may elect to use what is known as Krebaum's Formula - 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda and a spoonful of liquid detergent. Boost this with 4 ounces of Hydrocide.

STEP 2:
Rinse with clear water. You may rinse and extract with a hard surface tool such as an SX-12 or Gekko, where practical.

STEP 3:
Repeat these steps as needed.

Note:
It may be beneficial to install a Vaportek Deodorization Machine in the area you are deodorizing. This provides an immediate pleasant fragrance and helps to eliminate odors in the air space. Another option is to use a Hot Fogger with Bridgepoint's Thermal Fog.

CONCLUSION
Skunk odors will be among the most difficult the restorer will be called on to eliminate. Multiple methods of attacking the malodor will be required along with plenty of ventilation. You should also expect some psychological odors to linger. You client's perception of you as the expert who possesses the knowledge, skills and equipment to rid them of this odor will go a long way toward eliminating the psychological factor.