My Laundry Question
I use an aluminum-free deodorant and still have yellow sweat stains on my white shirts. What is causing this and how do you get rid of it?
Share a Little Background Info
Mostly cotton and cotton knit clothes. Just normal every day sweat. Use a deodorant that is organic and is not an anti-perspirant. The theory of aluminum causing the stains does not apply. Suggestions?
Lessons Learned
- Trying Baking soda solution but not working.*
Fabric Content of Item (if appropriate)
cotton knit 60% cotton/40% rayon
Mary Marlowe Leverette, Laundry Guide, says:
While the aluminum content in anti-perspirants can make the yellowing worse, the body oil and salts in our sweat can also be the cause. I have a couple of solutions that are environmentally friendly that you can try. I'm not sure if you are using baking soda alone but you should be using:
1:1:1 – One part baking soda, one part peroxide, one part water. Make a solution of the three ingredients. You will need about 1/4 cup each of baking soda, peroxide and water to treat one shirt. Protect the countertop with a thick white towel, rub 1:1:1 solution into stains and allow to work for at least 30 minutes. Use an old soft toothbrush or bristle brush to loosen any residue and then wash as usual in warm or cold water.
Another solution uses oxygen-based bleach and ammonia. There is also a commercial product called PitStop that works well but contains more chemicals.
Good luck!