How to Remove Deodorant Stains
Deodorant stains appear as white streaks on dark clothing or as stiff, crusty buildup in the underarm area of light garments. These marks are caused by aluminum compounds and waxy ingredients in antiperspirants. White vinegar and baking soda are the most effective household remedies for breaking down this residue.
Affected Materials
Step-by-Step Removal
- 1
Dampen the stain
Wet the stained area with cold water to prepare the fabric for treatment.
- 2
Apply white vinegar
Soak the stained area in undiluted white vinegar for 30 minutes. Vinegar dissolves the aluminum salts in deodorant.
- 3
Make a baking soda paste
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste. Apply it to the stain and gently scrub with a brush.
- 4
Let it sit
Leave the paste on for 15 to 20 minutes to break down waxy residue.
- 5
Wash in warm water
Launder on a warm cycle. For persistent buildup, add one cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle.
What Not to Do
- ✗Do not use bleach on deodorant stains — it can react with the aluminum and darken the stain.
- ✗Do not scrub white marks on delicate fabrics aggressively.
- ✗Do not let deodorant buildup accumulate — treat regularly.
- ✗Do not iron over deodorant residue.
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