How to Get Deodorant Stains Out of Shirts

Deodorant stains can seriously ruin a good outfit. Pesky white marks on black tees and stubborn yellow stains on white shirts? The good news is, there are reasons these stains happen—and even better, there are ways to prevent and remove them. We’ll break it all down and recommend the best deodorants to keep your clothes looking fresh and stain-free.

WHY DEODORANT STAINS HAPPEN

Deodorant stains are a common issue, and they come in two main types: white marks and yellow stains. White marks usually appear on dark clothing and are caused by the aluminum compounds in antiperspirants. Yellow stains show up on light-colored shirts and are a result of the reaction between sweat, deodorant, and the fabric.

WHAT CAUSES DEODORANT STAINS?

Aluminum salts, which are used to block sweat, can leave white marks on dark fabrics. When these salts mix with sweat, they can also cause yellow stains on lighter fabrics. So, it's not just the deodorant itself but the combination of sweat and deodorant that leads to those unsightly marks.

HOW TO REMOVE DEODORANT STAINS OUT OF SHIRTS

1. Quick fixes for fresh stains

Damp washcloth: Gently rub a damp washcloth over the stain to lift it off.
Lemon juice method: Apply lemon juice directly to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
White vinegar solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water, apply to the stain, and rinse after a few minutes.

2. How to remove deodorant stains from black shirts

Baking soda and water paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing.
Vinegar and detergent soak: Soak the stained area in a mixture of vinegar and detergent for about an hour, then wash as usual.

3. How to get rid of yellow deodorant stains on white shirts

Hydrogen peroxide and baking soda method: Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda to form a paste, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for about an hour before washing.
Dish soap and warm water technique: Apply dish soap directly to the stain, scrub gently with a toothbrush, and rinse with warm water.

4. How to remove old and stubborn deodorant stains

Pre-treating with stain removers: Use a commercial stain remover on the stain and let it sit for the recommended time before washing.
DIY natural stain removal hacks: Try a mixture of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and dish soap. Apply it to the stain, let it sit for an hour, and then wash.

Young man with beard wearing black with no sign on white deodorant marks or stains

HOW TO PREVENT DEODORANT STAINS IN THE FUTURE

Prevention is key! Here are a few tips to help you avoid deodorant stains:

Choose the right deodorant formula: Use deodorants that are specifically designed to minimize stains, like Degree UltraClear Deodorant.
Allow deodorant to dry before getting dressed: Give your deodorant a few minutes to dry before putting on your shirt to prevent transfer.
Wash your clothes properly to prevent buildup: Regularly wash your shirts to prevent deodorant buildup. Use a good detergent and avoid fabric softeners. Fabric softeners can trap deodorant residue and reduce absorbency, making stains harder to remove.

BEST DEODORANTS FOR STAIN-FREE CONFIDENCE

Looking for a deodorant that won’t mess with your wardrobe? Degree’s antiperspirants are designed to reduce stains. Go for clear or aluminum-free formulas to keep your clothes looking fresh and clean.

Deodorant stains don't have to be a permanent fixture on your favorite shirts. With these straightforward tips and tricks, you can tackle even the most stubborn stains and keep your wardrobe looking fresh. Remember, prevention is just as important as removal. Choose the right deodorant, let it dry before dressing, and wash your clothes properly to avoid buildup. With Degree’s superior technology, you can confidently move without worrying about those pesky stains.