How to remove sweat & deodorant stains from white natural fibres
White natural fibres are beautiful, breathable and timeless. They are also honest.Linen, cotton, silk and wool show wear, residue and buildup more quickly than darker or synthetic fabrics. Sweat and deodorant stains are among the most common issues, but they do not need to shorten the life of your garments if handled thoughtfully.
This guide walks you through how to remove sweat and deodorant stains from white natural fibres using gentle, fibre-first methods that respect both the cloth and its construction.
Why white natural fibres stain more easily
How sweat and deodorant interact
Sweat itself is mostly water, but it also contains proteins, salts and body oils. When these mix with aluminium salts commonly found in antiperspirants, a chemical reaction occurs. Over time, this reaction leaves behind residue that binds to fabric fibres.
Why white fabrics reveal buildup
White fibres do not hide residue. What might remain invisible on darker garments appears as yellowing, stiff patches or chalky white marks on white linen, cotton and silk. Repeated wear and washing without proper treatment causes these deposits to accumulate and oxidise, making them harder to remove.
Before you begin
Read the care label
Always start with the care label. It tells you the maximum water temperature, whether agitation is safe and if the fibre tolerates soaking. Natural fibres vary widely in resilience.
Test first
Even gentle solutions can affect dye, weave or finish. Test any treatment on an inner seam or hem before applying it to visible areas.
Avoid heat
Heat sets sweat and deodorant stains permanently. Do not use hot water, tumble dryers or irons until the stain is fully removed.
Removing fresh sweat stains
Cold water rinse
For fresh perspiration marks, rinse the affected area with cold water as soon as possible. This helps flush out salts and proteins before they bond to the fibres.
Gentle acidic pre-treatment
If residue remains, apply a diluted solution of white vinegar and water. Use a light hand and blot rather than rub. Vinegar helps dissolve alkaline deodorant deposits without damaging white natural fibres when used sparingly.
Washing guidance
Wash promptly using a mild, bleach-free detergent. Choose the coolest temperature recommended on the care label and avoid overcrowding the machine.
Removing deodorant residue and white marks
Dry removal for surface buildup
For fresh white marks caused by deodorant transfer, allow the fabric to dry fully. Gently brush or rub the area with a clean, dry cloth to lift surface residue before introducing moisture.
Breaking down aluminium residue
For persistent buildup, a light baking soda and water paste can help. Apply sparingly, allow it to sit briefly, then rinse thoroughly with cold water before washing.
Treating yellow underarm stains
Baking soda paste method
For white cotton and linen, mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a soft paste. Apply it directly to the stained area and allow it to sit for 30 to 60 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Baking soda helps neutralise odours and gently lift discolouration without bleaching or compromising the fibre.
Oxygen-based stain treatment (white fabrics only)
For more established yellowing on white natural fibres, a gentle oxygen-based stain remover can be used. Apply sparingly to the affected area and follow the product instructions carefully, allowing adequate time for the treatment to work before washing. Oxygen-based formulas are less aggressive than chlorine bleach and better suited to preserving the integrity of cotton and linen.
Why chlorine bleach should be avoided
Chlorine bleach reacts with sweat residue and deodorant compounds, often intensifying yellow staining rather than removing it. Over time, it weakens natural fibres, dulls fabric texture, and shortens garment lifespan. For Afar garments, bleach is best avoided in favour of slower, fibre-safe methods that prioritise longevity over quick fixes.
Fibre-specific guidance
Linen and organic cotton
These fibres tolerate gentle soaking and mild detergents well. Absorb excess residue first, treat lightly if needed and wash cold with similar colours. Always air dry and reassess before repeating any treatment.
White silk
Silk requires restraint. Absorb residue using a dry powder only and avoid water unless absolutely necessary. Do not rub, scrub or soak. If the stain persists, stop and seek professional care to avoid permanent damage.
White wool and cashmere
Apply dry absorbents gently and press between clean towels if moisture is introduced. Reshape while damp and dry flat. Avoid agitation at all stages, as friction can felt fibres and distort the fabric.
Removing odour without damaging fibres
Bicarbonate soak
If odour lingers after washing, soak the garment briefly in cool water with a small amount of bicarbonate of soda. Rinse thoroughly before drying.
Air drying and ventilation
Natural fibres benefit from airflow. Dry garments in a well-ventilated space away from direct heat or sunlight to preserve colour and structure.
What to avoid
Heat at every stage
Do not tumble dry, iron or use hot water until you are certain the stain is gone.
Over-treating stains
Repeated aggressive treatments can damage fibres faster than the stain itself. Pause between attempts and reassess.
Mixing cleaning agents
Never combine acids, bleaches and alkalis. Chemical reactions can weaken fibres and cause irreversible discolouration.
Preventing future sweat and deodorant stains
Let deodorant dry fully
Allow deodorant to dry completely before dressing to reduce transfer onto fabric.
Reduce product buildup
Using more product does not prevent staining. Apply lightly and evenly.
Wear and wash rhythm
Do not allow sweat-soaked garments to sit for long periods. Washing soon after wear prevents residue from oxidising and setting into fibres.
When to pause and seek professional care
Some stains require restraint rather than persistence. Consider professional, eco-conscious dry cleaning if the garment is silk, cashmere or structured, if the stain remains after two or three gentle attempts, or if you notice changes in texture, colour or drape. Preserving the garment is often more important than complete stain removal.
Closing note
Caring for white natural fibres is a practice of attention rather than intensity. With thoughtful washing, gentle treatments and patience, sweat and deodorant stains can be managed without compromising the integrity of your garments. Well-cared-for cloth lasts longer, wears better and tells a quieter, more considered story over time.
From our studio to your wardrobe, with love, John and Jana