How Do I Remove Deodrant Stains?

Deodorants and antiperspirants may help prevent body odor, but they often cause staining on clothing. Stains are often more prominent on dark fabrics, but deodorant can also yellow and discolor light-colored fabrics if not removed promptly. The proper cleaning method depends on whether or not the fabric is washable. If the fabric isn't washable, attempting to remove deodorant stains can cause permanent stains or damage to the fabric.

Things You'll Need

• Dull knife
• Dish soap
• Ammonia
• Rubbing alcohol
• Enzyme cleaner

Instructions

1. Scrape caked-on deodorant off the fabric with a blunt knife, if applicable.

2. Combine 1/2 a teaspoon of mild liquid dish soap with 1/2 a cup of water. Stir in three to four drops of ammonia.

3. Moisten a clean, white cloth in the cleaning solution. Lay the cloth over the deodorant stain and apply pressure. Leave the cloth in place for five minutes.

4. Rinse out the cleaning solution with clear water.

5. Dip a clean cloth into rubbing alcohol. Gently rub the stain with the cloth in a circular motion, lifting out the remaining stain.

6. Apply a commercial enzyme cleaner, following package instructions, if a stain or discoloration remains. After the stain is completely lifted from the fabric, flush with cool water and allow it to air dry, or launder it in the washing machine as you normally would.

Tips & Warnings

• Test cleaning solutions on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure that the solution itself doesn't cause any stains or damage.

• If a fabric is dry-clean only, take it to a professional cleaners for stain removal.

References

• Cornell University Extension: Perspiration, Antiperspirant and Deodorant Stains
• University of Illinois Extension: Stain Solutions: Deodorant