Armpit stains on white shirts can be unsightly and embarrassing. They often occur due to sweat or deodorant buildup, and they’re notoriously difficult to remove.
Luckily, there are several home remedies that you can try to help get rid of armpit stains from your white shirts.
In this article, we will discuss the best ways to get rid of armpit stains from white shirts. We’ll cover how to remove sweat stains with natural ingredients, as well as how to treat stubborn deodorant buildup.
So, buckle up, and let’s get those shirts looking as good as new!
How to Get Rid of Armpit Stains on White Shirts
White shirts may offer more flexibility when it comes to removing armpit stains, but they still require careful attention.
Here are some tried-and-true methods:
Pre-soak with Oxygen Bleach
Oxygen bleach is an excellent stain remover for white shirts. It’s color-safe and chlorine-free, making it gentle on fabrics.
To prepare a pre-soaking solution:
- Fill a basin with cool water.
- Add the recommended amount of oxygen bleach according to the package instructions, usually about one scoop per gallon of water.
- Mix well to ensure the oxygen bleach dissolves completely.
Pre-soaking Process:
Immerse your white shirt in the oxygen bleach solution and allow it to soak for a few hours or overnight. The oxygen bleach will work to break down and lift the stain from the fabric. After soaking, wash the shirt as usual, following the care instructions on the label.
Lemon and Salt Scrub
Lemon juice, with its acidic properties, and salt, a natural abrasive, can work together to break down the proteins causing armpit stains.
To create a lemon and salt scrub:
- Squeeze the juice from one lemon into a small bowl.
- Add enough table salt to create a paste-like consistency.
Application:
Gently rub the lemon and salt mixture onto the stained area, making sure to saturate the stain completely. Allow the scrub to sit for about an hour before rinsing the shirt with cool water. After rinsing, launder the shirt as usual.
Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Paste
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide can create an effective paste to remove armpit stains from white shirts.
To prepare the paste:
- In a small bowl, mix equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide until a thick paste forms.
Application:
Apply the baking soda and hydrogen peroxide paste directly to the stained area, ensuring full coverage. Let the paste sit for 30 minutes, allowing it to penetrate the stain and work its magic. After 30 minutes, rinse the shirt with cool water and then launder as usual.
Traditional Bleach for Stubborn Stains
While the methods mentioned above are effective for most stains, sometimes you might encounter a particularly stubborn armpit stain that requires a stronger solution.
In such cases, traditional bleach can be a suitable option for white shirts. However, be cautious when using bleach, as it can weaken the fabric if used incorrectly or too often.
Preparing the Bleach Solution:
Before using bleach, read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to determine the appropriate amount and method for your specific bleach product.
Generally, you’ll want to:
- Fill a basin or sink with cool water.
- Add the recommended amount of bleach, usually around 1/4 cup per gallon of water.
- Mix the solution thoroughly to ensure the bleach is evenly distributed.
Bleaching Process:
Submerge your white shirt in the bleach solution, ensuring the stained area is fully immersed. Allow the shirt to soak for about 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on the progress of the stain removal. Do not leave the shirt in the bleach solution for too long, as it can damage the fabric.
After soaking, rinse the shirt thoroughly with cool water to remove any residual bleach. Launder the shirt as usual, following the care instructions on the label.
Remember, bleach should be used as a last resort, and it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper use to avoid damaging your white shirts.
Sun Whitening: Nature’s Bleach
The sun’s ultraviolet rays can work wonders in naturally bleaching and brightening white shirts, making it an eco-friendly and gentle alternative to chemical bleaches.
Sun whitening is especially useful for freshening up shirts that have become dull over time or for giving an extra boost of brightness after treating stains using other methods.
Preparation:
Before sun whitening your white shirts, it’s essential to ensure they’re clean. Launder your shirts as usual, following the care instructions on the label.
If you’ve recently treated armpit stains using one of the methods mentioned above, make sure to rinse the shirts thoroughly to remove any residue.
To sun whiten your white shirts, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a sunny day with little to no chance of rain.
- Find a suitable outdoor space with direct sunlight, such as a clothesline, drying rack, or a flat surface like a clean patio or balcony.
- Hang or lay your damp shirts in the sun, ensuring they receive maximum exposure to the sunlight.
- Leave your shirts in the sun for a few hours, periodically checking on their progress. The sun’s ultraviolet rays will naturally bleach the fabric, brightening the white and helping to remove any remaining stains or dullness.
When sun whitening, be mindful of the length of time you expose your shirts to sunlight, as excessive exposure can weaken the fabric over time.
Once your shirts have achieved the desired level of brightness, remove them from the sun and store them away from direct sunlight to maintain their fresh, clean appearance.
Prevention: Keep Those Stains at Bay
The best way to deal with armpit stains is to prevent them from happening in the first place!
Here are some tips for keeping your shirts stain-free:
Wear an undershirt: Wearing a thin, breathable undershirt can help absorb sweat and prevent it from reaching your outer shirt, reducing the chance of stains.
Choose the right antiperspirant: Opt for an aluminum-free deodorant or antiperspirant, as aluminum can react with sweat and cause yellow stains.
Apply antiperspirant correctly: Make sure to apply your antiperspirant at night and let it dry completely before putting on a shirt. This allows the product to work more effectively and reduces the chance of it transferring to your clothing.
Let your shirts breathe: Give your shirts time to air out after wearing them, especially if you’ve been sweating. Hang them up to dry instead of tossing them in a hamper, which can trap moisture and encourage stains to set.
Wash your shirts regularly: Don’t let sweat and deodorant build up on your shirts – wash them after every wear or every other wear, depending on your sweat levels and activity.
Advanced Tips: For Stubborn Stains
If you’ve tried the methods above and still can’t seem to rid your shirts of armpit stains, consider these advanced tips:
Meat tenderizer: This may sound strange, but unseasoned meat tenderizer can help break down proteins in the stain. Dampen the stained area, sprinkle a small amount of tenderizer on it, and gently rub it in. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before rinsing and laundering.
Aspirin: Crush a few aspirin tablets and mix them with water to create a paste. Apply this to the stain and let it sit for a few hours before rinsing and washing.
Borax: Add 1/2 cup of borax to your washing machine along with your regular detergent. Borax can help remove stubborn stains and brighten fabrics.
Seek Professional Help: If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of those stubborn armpit stains, it might be time to call in the professionals.
A dry cleaner or professional laundry service may have specialized tools and techniques to remove those stains once and for all.
In Conclusion
Armpit stains may be a common laundry problem, but with the right techniques and preventative measures, you can keep your shirts looking fresh and stain-free. Remember to act quickly, test any cleaning solutions first, and avoid heat when treating stains. With a little time and effort, you’ll be able to wear your favorite shirts with confidence, knowing they’re free from unsightly armpit stains. Happy laundering!