How to Remove Yellow Armpit Stains from Clothes – Easy, Proven Methods

Yellow armpit stains are among the most stubborn and embarrassing stains to deal with. These unsightly marks are caused by a mix of sweat, deodorant, and natural body oils, which build up over time. Fortunately, there are effective and natural ways to remove armpit stains and restore your clothes to their original look.

In this article, we’ll explore what causes these stains and offer three proven methods to remove them—using common household items.

💧 What Causes Armpit Stains?

While sweat is the main reason, it's not the only one. Here’s how yellow stains form:

• Sweat: It contains water, salt, and minerals like sodium and potassium, which leave residue on fabric.

• Deodorants & Antiperspirants: Many products, especially antiperspirants, contain aluminum chloride, which can react with sweat, causing yellow or white stains.

• Body oils & bacteria: Over time, these elements break down sweat compounds and can alter the color of your clothes.

💡 Note: Natural fibers like cotton are less likely to stain than synthetic fabrics or silk, which tend to trap sweat more easily.

👚 3 Simple Ways to Remove Yellow Armpit Stains

Here are three tried-and-tested methods to clean those tough underarm stains:

✅ 1. Baking Soda Paste (With Hydrogen Peroxide)

Baking soda is great for both stain removal and odor control.

Instructions:

1. Mix equal parts baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, then add a bit of water to form a paste.

   • For one shirt: ¼ cup of each ingredient is enough.

2. Use a toothbrush to apply the paste to the stain.

3. Let it sit for 30 minutes.

4. Rinse with warm water.

5. Wash the garment as usual in your washing machine.

6. Repeat the process if the stain is stubborn.

✅ 2. White Vinegar for Set-In Stains

White vinegar contains acetic acid, which breaks down older or yellowed stains.

Instructions:

1. Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 2 cups water.

2. Soak the stained area in this solution for 30 minutes.

3. Gently wring out the fabric.

4. Make a new paste with:

   • ½ cup baking soda

   • 1 tbsp hydrogen peroxide

   • 1 tbsp salt

5. Apply the paste using your fingers or a toothbrush and let it sit for 30 minutes.

6. Wash on the hottest water setting safe for the fabric.

7. Air-dry the garment—do not use a dryer, as heat can set the stain permanently.

✅ 3. Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

Lemon juice naturally brightens fabric and leaves clothes smelling fresh.

Instructions:

1. Mix equal parts lemon juice, water, and baking soda to create a paste.

2. Rub the paste onto the stain and leave it for 30 minutes.

3. Wash normally and air-dry.

🛑 How to Prevent Armpit Stains

Avoid future stains by following these simple tips:

• Switch to aluminum-free deodorants: Aluminum is a main cause of yellow stains.

• Wear breathable fabrics: Natural fibers like cotton help your skin breathe and reduce trapped sweat.

• Let deodorant dry before dressing: This avoids direct transfer to your clothes.

• Layer with an undershirt: Especially on hot days or during exercise.

• Avoid using a dryer on stained clothes: Heat can set stains, making them nearly impossible to remove.

👕 Final Thoughts

With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can completely remove yellow underarm stains from your favorite clothes. Try one of the methods above and give your wardrobe a fresh, clean restart!