When temperatures are consistently above 100 degrees it’s almost impossible not to perspire as soon as you step outside. When sweat interacts with the aluminum in your antiperspirant, it can cause some real damage to your clothes. Sweat stains don’t have to be permanent. Here are a few tips to remove sweat stains:
Soak it
Before you throw your sweat-stained t-shirt into the washing machine, take some time to pretreat it. Mix equal parts vinegar and cold water and soak the garment for 20 minutes. Then wash the garment as usual. Be sure and check the stain before drying. Heat will make the stain set in.
Use the sun
If you notice a white garment starting to yellow, use the sun to help air dry. Take the first step of pre-soaking your shirt or dress and then lay flat in the sun to let the sun’s rays dim the stain.
Create a paste
For tougher sweat stains create a paste of ½ cup of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of salt and 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide. Rub this mixture into the fabric and let it sit. Rinse well and then wash as usual. For colored garments replace the hydrogen peroxide with water. You could also try adding some dawn dish soap in the mixture for better results.
Prevent the stains
The best way to get rid of a stain is to stop it from happening in the first place. This all depends on your antiperspirant. Search for brands that are aluminum free to prevent the reaction between sweat and aluminum. You could also try slowing down your morning routine and allowing antiperspirant to dry completely before getting dressed to avoid it getting on your clothes.
It’s also important to wash after each wearing to avoid the build up of those chemicals.
Follow directions
Any time you’re removing a stain from a garment it’s important to follow the directions on the tag. If a garment is dry clean only, bring it to Legend and allow us to care for it properly. No matter the fabric or the stain we have the best tips and tricks to keep it looking like new—even during the hot summer months.
Legend Dry Cleaners has been serving the community of Ahwatukee since 1999, and has expanded into the Phoenix communities of Chandler, Maricopa, Mesa, Tempe and coming soon to Gilbert! We offer exceptional eco-friendly dry cleaning, laundry, wash/dry/fold, wedding dress & gown cleaning, and alterations in Arizona. Our East Valley locations have free pickup & delivery and 24-hour drop boxes. For more information call: (480) 460-5343