How To Remove Pit Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 27, 2023

Yellow underarm stains on clothes can be unsightly and embarrassing, but they don't have to be permanent. These stains are caused by a build-up of sweat, bacteria, and antiperspirant, which can discolor and damage clothes over time. But with the right techniques and household items, you can easily remove even the toughest underarm stains and restore your clothes to their former glory. Keep reading to learn how to remove underarm stains from clothes and keep them looking fresh and clean.

COLOR

Various (depending on type)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as discoloration of the fabric that is usually yellow or brown in color. They can be dry or slightly damp to the touch and may have a strong odor of sweat. These stains are often caused by contact with perspiration.

WATER TEMP

Warm (85° to 105°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Warm water helps to break down the pit and make it easier to remove.

The Science Behind Pit Stains

Armpit stains on clothes are caused by a combination of sweat and antiperspirant or deodorant. When we sweat, our body releases a fluid that contains water, salt, and other dissolved substances. When this fluid comes into contact with antiperspirant or deodorant, which often contains aluminum and other compounds, it can cause a chemical reaction that results in a yellow or white stain on the fabric. The stain is difficult to remove because the aluminum and other compounds in the antiperspirant or deodorant can bond with the fibers in the fabric.

pit

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Pit Stains

  • Baking soda
  • White vinegar
  • Lemon juice
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Oxygen bleach

Step By Step Process To Remove Pit Stains

  1. Mix a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
  3. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
  4. Apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the stain and let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
  5. Apply a small amount of dishwashing liquid directly to the stain and gently rub it in.
  6. Wash the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water setting that is safe for the fabric, using oxygen bleach.

Note: Before using any of the above solutions, it's important to test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure they do not discolor or damage the fabric. Also, some fabrics like silk and wool should not be washed in hot water or with hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice, check the care label before starting.

In Brief

Armpit stains on clothes are caused by a chemical reaction between sweat and antiperspirant or deodorant. To remove them, use a paste of baking soda and water, mix equal parts of white vinegar and water, mix equal parts of lemon juice and water, use hydrogen peroxide and dishwashing liquid, then wash the garment in the washing machine with oxygen bleach on the hottest water setting safe for the fabric. However, test the solution on a small inconspicuous area of the fabric first to avoid discoloration or damage.

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