How to Get Rid of Armpit Stains

Armpit stains are caused by excessive perspiration especially during hot days. Sometimes, deodorant, scented powder and antiperspirant products can ironically cause those embarrassing stains on your armpit. The chemical reaction between your antiperspirant and the salts present in your sweat causes the build-up of yellow stains on your t-shirt. Most of the time, underarm stains appear on white t-shirts although they are also lurking on colored shirts, just not as visible. Aside from the mentioned culprits, armpit stains can also result from aging fabric and bleach.

Getting Rid of Yellow Armpit Stains

Mixture #1

 Materials Needed:

• 1 part Baking Soda
• 1 part Peroxide
• 1 part Water
• Soft toothbrush
• White towel

Instructions:

1. Make a solution using the mentioned ingredients.
2. Protect the countertop with a thick white towel.
3. Rub the solution into the affected area.
4. Let it stand for 30 minutes.
5. Brush the solution to loosen any residue.
6. Launder as usual.

Mixture #2

Materials Needed:

• 1 part Ammonia
• 1 part Oxygen-based bleach
• White towel

Instructions:

1. Make a solution using the mentioned ingredients.
2. Protect the countertop with thick white towel.
3. Rub the solution into the affected area for at least 30 seconds.
4. Do usual washing.

For dark colored shirts, you have to test the solutions first in a discreet portion of the shirt before treating the affected area. This will pre-determine the compatibility of the solution to the type of fabric or clothing. When treating stains using bleach, it is highly advised to wear rubber gloves and work in a well-ventilated room.

Additional Tips:

Baking soda/ Crushed aspirin- Create a paste with either baking soda or two crushed, uncoated white aspirin and water. Apply the paste on the affected area. Rinse the paste and then wash as usual.

Detergent- Pour a bit of detergent onto the washcloth. Rub the armpit stains and leave the detergent for 30 minutes. Rinse and wash the shirt as usual.

Hydrogen Peroxide- Create an equal mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water and then soak the clothing for about half an hour. Wash the clothing as you would normally do. Note: This is only recommended for light colored articles.

Mouthwash- Spray the stained area with a clear mouthwash. Let the solution set in for a while before rinsing and washing.

Sunlight- Turn your garment inside out. Wet it thoroughly with plain water. Expose the armpit area into direct sunlight.

Spray Paint Remover- Apply spray paint remover directly on the stains. Allow it to stand for 30 to 60 minutes. Apply more paint remover and brush both sides of the clothing using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse with warm water. Wash as you normally would.

Vinegar- Mix a half cup of white vinegar in one cup of water. Apply the solution into the affected area. Let it stand for 30 minutes and then launder as usual.

Caution: Avoid using chlorine bleach in your attempt to remove armpit stains. Chlorine contains certain chemicals that are very sensitive to the protein-based armpit stains. The reaction will cause the stain to become darker.

Preventive Measures

• Avoid putting your shirt on until your deodorant under each arm dries up.
• Switch deodorant if you’ve used the same brand for years. Keep in mind that the chemical composition of deodorants can vary by product. Be wary of deodorants containing acidic solutions and aluminum chloride.
• Use an anti-microbial soap and warm water when washing your underarms. It is also advised to wash your underarms two times a day.
• If you have perspired while wearing a garment, immediately wash your shirt to avoid penetration of stains.