White vinegar and baking soda. White vinegar can combat skunk scents in carpets, while baking soda will help neutralize odors in clothing. “Bowls of vinegar around the house can act as a deodorizer," ...

It's the thioacetates in skunk spray that give it its staying power." An immediate shower with deodorant soap or grease-busting detergent is the best course of action, or a bath with baking soda.

However, during skunk mating season, they'll travel up to four to five miles a day. "They do find their way to people's porches and a lot of time crawlspaces underneath homes," Cameron said.

Except for their odor, which is a big exception, skunks are good-natured creatures that don't cause a lot of troubles. But because of the smell and the risk of rabies, it's good to show them the gate.