Fit, care and budget
How to remove sweat stains from shirts
By sneakersInn team · Updated
To remove yellow sweat stains, treat them before washing: rub in a paste of baking soda and water or an enzyme-based stain remover, leave it for 30 minutes to an hour, wash in cool or warm water, and dry in the shade. Repeat if needed before ironing, because heat sets stains. Old, stiff stains may need a soak overnight.
| Method | Use it for | How |
|---|---|---|
| Baking soda paste | Fresh yellowing on whites | Rub in, wait 30 to 60 min, wash |
| Enzyme stain remover | Sweat and body oils on any colour | Apply, wait, wash |
| White vinegar soak | Odour and mild stains | 1 part vinegar, 2 parts water, 30 min |
| Oxygen-based whitener | Stubborn stains on whites | Soak per pack instructions |
| Washing-up liquid | Deodorant build-up | Rub in, rinse, wash |
Why do sweat stains turn yellow?
Sweat itself is mostly water, but it mixes with body oils and with aluminium compounds in many antiperspirants. Together they build up in the fabric and turn yellow over time, especially on white cotton.
What should I avoid?
- Chlorine bleach on sweat stains: it can react and make them darker.
- Hot water and ironing before the stain is gone: heat sets it.
- Tumble drying stained shirts.
How do I prevent stains?
- Wear an undershirt. See do you need an undershirt in the heat?.
- Let deodorant dry fully before dressing.
- Use less antiperspirant.
- Wash shirts soon after wearing, not days later.
- Treat collars and underarms every wash.
What about coloured shirts?
Use an enzyme remover or vinegar and test on an inside seam first. Avoid whiteners on colours.
What about deodorant marks on dark clothes?
Rub the fabric against itself or use a damp cloth; for build-up, washing-up liquid before washing.
Questions
Can I save an old yellowed shirt?
Sometimes with an overnight soak in an oxygen-based whitener. Very old stains may be permanent.
How do I keep white shirts white?
See the perfect white shirt and clothing care 101.