How to Get Armpit Stains Out of Shirts

white shirt

Armpit stains on shirts can be unsightly and embarrassing, but they’re also completely preventable and easy to remove with the right techniques and products. 

In this article, I’ll show you how to get rid of armpit stains on shirts quickly and effectively, so you can get back to feeling confident and looking your best.

What You’ll Need:

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Laundry detergent
  • A toothbrush or old toothbrush
  • A washing machine
  • Water

Steps: 

  1. Pre-treat the stain by mixing 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of water together to form a paste. 
  2. Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Spray white vinegar on the stain and let it sit for another 10-15 minutes. 
  3. Scrub the stain with a toothbrush or old toothbrush to work the paste and spray it into the fabric. 
  4. Launder the shirt, as usual, using your regular laundry detergent. 
  5. Check the stain before the shirt is completely dry, if the stain is still there repeat the process.

What Causes Armpit Stains on Shirts?

Armpit stains on shirts are caused by a combination of sweat and the bacteria that live on our skin. When sweat and bacteria come into contact with the fibers of a shirt, they can cause yellow or brown discoloration. 

Deodorants and antiperspirants can also contribute to armpit stains, as they can leave behind a buildup of minerals and other substances.

Tips for White Shirts

White shirts are a staple in any wardrobe, but they are often prone to armpit stains caused by sweat and deodorant. 

Here are some tips to help keep your white shirts looking fresh and clean while avoiding armpit stains:

  1. Pre-treat stains before washing. If you notice a stain on your white shirt, apply a pre-treatment solution or a paste made from baking soda and water to the affected area before washing. This will help to break down the stain and make it easier to remove.
  2. Use the right detergent. Choose a detergent that is specifically designed for white clothes and contains enzymes that can break down stains. Avoid using too much detergent, as this can leave a residue on the shirt.
  3. Wash in cold water. Hot water can cause yellowing and shrinkage, so it’s best to wash white shirts in cold water. Use a delicate cycle if your machine has one.
  4. Use a whitening agent. Add a whitening agent like hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar to the wash to help keep your shirts looking bright.
  5. Go easy on the fabric softener. Fabric softener can leave a residue on the shirt, which can make it appear dull and yellow.
  6. Avoid using bleach. Bleach can be harsh on white shirts and can cause yellowing over time.
  7. Dry in the sun. Drying white shirts in the sun can help to brighten and whiten them.
  8. Regularly check armpits for stains. Armpit stains can be caused by sweat and deodorant. Regularly check the armpit area and treat any stains as soon as possible.
  9. Wear an undershirt. Wearing an undershirt can help to absorb sweat and prevent armpit stains from forming on your white shirt.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your white shirts looking fresh and clean for longer. Remember to always check for stains and treat them as soon as possible to avoid setting them.

Conclusion: 

By using the simple steps outlined in this article, you’ll be able to get rid of armpit stains quickly and effectively, so you can get back to feeling confident and looking your best. 

Remember to take the prevention steps to avoid armpit stains, and also make sure to treat them as soon as possible for better results.

Not a fan of the white vinegar and baking soda combination? 

Try using baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. Read How to Use Baking Soda to Remove Armpit Stains on Shirts for a step-by-step guide.

Thanks for reading my blog.

-Baking Soda Guy

Photo by Marina Podrez from Pexels