Method for neutralizing offensive chemicals

A method is described for neutralizing urushiol on surfaces (e.g., wearing apparel, skin, tools, pets, etc.) with an aqueous solution comprising a water-soluble chlorine-containing compound which is a stable solid at room temperature. The solutions are also useful for deodorizing low molecular weight thiols such as are present in skunk spray or glandular secretions of other small animals. Because the chlorine-containing compounds are stable solids, they can be shipped and stored in solid form and dissolved in water at the time of use.