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How to get deodorant stains out of shirts

If you or your family deal with deodorant stains on your clothes, there are simple solutions you can whip up at home to help treat them. These DIY methods are easy and budget-friendly, and can help keep your clothes stain-free. Read on to learn these helpful tips on how to remove a deodorant stain and help keep your family’s clothes looking fresh and clean.

How to remove a deodorant stain

Mix 4 cups of warm water and 1 cup of white vinegar. Consider testing the solution on an invisible corner of your shirt before applying it directly to the stain. Begin by wetting the stain with the mixture and gently work it into the fabric. If the stain persists, you can try to soak your shirt directly in the vinegar solution for a few hours. Rinse the solution completely off the garment before putting it in the wash using the Normal cycle

Always check your shirt’s care label to ensure you use the proper detergent and wash cycle.

How to get deodorant stains out of black shirts

Treating stains on black shirts can be a bit tricky because of their pigment. This method for removing deodorant stains with baking soda, is a helpful option for dark clothes and will likely not strip any color. Check your shirt’s care label for guidance on which products can or can’t be used. 

If the method below doesn’t do the trick, you can try the vinegar method mentioned above. Remember to test each method on a small area of your shirt before treating the whole stain.

Supplies
  • Baking soda

  • Water

Tools
  • Toothbrush 

  • Measuring cup 

  • Plastic container 

  • Heat-proof kitchen gloves

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Step 1: Create your solution

Combine a ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of water to create a paste in a measuring cup. 

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Step 2: Soak the stain

Place your shirt in a plastic container and gently pour the hottest water your shirt can take, directly onto the deodorant stain. This helps soften and dissolve the buildup of deodorant. Again, always check your garment’s care label.

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Step 3: Drain and apply solution

Drain the water from the container and apply the baking soda paste to the deodorant stain with a soft toothbrush. Gently work the paste thoroughly into the stain. Let your shirt sit with the paste application for 20 minutes.

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Step 4: Machine wash

Choose a wash cycle setting according to your shirt’s care label, using hot water if appropriate. For delicate items, hand wash or use a Delicate wash cycle.

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Step 5: Line dry

Line or air drying your shirt allows you to keep an eye on the stain. Repeat the steps above if the stain is still there when the garment dries. Avoid placing your shirt in the dryer until the stain is completely gone as the dyer’s heat can set the stain, making it more difficult to remove.

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How to get sweat stains out of white shirts

Mix 2 cups of water and 1 cup of white vinegar and soak your shirt for 30 minutes. Gently squeeze out any excess liquid and lay your shirt flat. Create a paste mixing ½ cup baking soda, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the sweat stains and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then, gently scrub it in with your fingers. Machine wash at the hottest recommended temperature setting on your garment’s care tag and air dry. Repeat the process until the stain is gone.

Sweat stains can cause yellow discoloration because of the chemical mixture of water, protein and fats. Once sweat interacts with body oils and certain ingredients in some deodorants, it can cause a stain that may require a different kind of treatment from deodorant stains. There are additional methods for removing sweat stains from white clothes in this guide to whiten clothes that have yellowed.

How to get rid of deodorant stains with baking soda

Baking soda stain removal begins with mixing equal parts baking soda and water until it creates a thick paste. Apply the mixture directly onto the stain and let it soak in for 20 minutes before washing it off with hot water. Always check your garment’s care label. You can also soak your shirt overnight for more stubborn stains, and then wash it in the washing machine.

Try to keep your laundry sorted appropriately by either color or material. Some items, like dress shirts, sweaters or bras, may require different cycles. Follow the care labels for water temperatures as well as appropriate wash cycles. Always allow your stain-treated garments to air dry first, as putting them into the dryer can cause stains to set. Repeat the above steps as needed.

How to get deodorant stains out of a white shirt with hydrogen peroxide

If your garment’s care label allows for it, mix ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide and 2 cups of cool water and soak the stained shirt for 30 minutes. Rinse the shirt completely before placing it in a wash cycle. Hydrogen peroxide can discolor darker clothing, so this process is only recommended for white clothing. Learn more ways to remove stains from white clothing. Avoid using this method on delicate fabrics and wool materials.

Remove deodorant stains with lemon juice

Squeeze lemon juice directly onto the deodorant stain with a bit of salt. Gently dab until the stain is gone and fully rinse the shirt before air drying. This isn’t recommended on delicate clothing as lemon juice can damage some fabrics. Always check your care label and try the treatment on a small, less visible area first.

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