The Must-Know Trick for Removing Deodorant Stains From Black Shirts Quickly

Nothing can ruin an outfit quite like deodorant stains. Especially noticeable on dark-colored fabric, those white, chalky marks can send you back to the closet and your outfit to the hamper—unless, of course, you know how to remove deodorant stains from black shirts quickly.

We chatted with laundry and cleaning experts to find the best ways to eradicate pesky deodorant marks from dark-colored clothing. Whether the stain is fresh or from some time ago, we have you covered with four different methods designed to handle almost all deodorant snafus. 

Identify Your Shirt’s Material

Before treating the deodorant stain on your black shirt, check the care tag to see the garment’s fabric composition. This will help you determine how and if you should treat the stain yourself. "Material does matter quite a lot," Sofia Martinez, cleaning professional at Sparkly Maid Austin, explains. "Natural materials like cotton are much more forgiving when it comes to treatment."

Meanwhile, laundry expert Sherry Berkley says finer fabrics like cashmere, silk, and wool require a gentler touch than cotton or polyester, or might even need dry cleaning. 

And remember: You'll always want to do a spot test first with your chosen stain remover to ensure it does not damage or discolor the fabric, adds Martinez.

Method 1: In a Pinch

If the deodorant stain just occurred, it’s much easier to remove compared to a set-in stain, Berkley explains. In theory, you should be able to erase these marks like they never happened in a few simple steps.

Supplies Needed

• Nylon stockings 
• Distilled white vinegar
• Water
• Spray bottle
• Cleaning cloth
  

Instructions

1. Grab a pair of nylon stockings and gently rub the fresh deodorant stain.
   
2. If the stain is particularly stubborn, Martinez recommends combining one part white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle.
   
3. Lightly spray the stains.
   
4. Rub the sprayed fabric gently with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residue.

Method 2: For Set-In Stains 

If you didn’t realize your favorite black blouse had deodorant stains left over from the last time you wore it, don’t panic just yet—cleaning vinegar to the rescue. “Vinegar can be used on both light and dark colors, cotton and cotton poly fabrics,” says Berkley.

Follow these easy instructions from Berkley to remove them.

Supplies Needed

• Metal bowl
• Distilled white vinegar
• Soft-bristled cleaning brush (or toothbrush)
  

Instructions

1. Fill a metal bowl (large enough for the stained shirt) with white vinegar.
2. Submerge your shirt in the bowl for about an hour.
3. Take the shirt out of the vinegar bath. Gently brush the stain in the direction of the fabric to remove.

Method 3: For Cotton or Polyester-Blended Fabrics

Need to save your favorite black cotton T-shirt? Listen up. Berkley has the solution to your deodorant woes when it comes to these fabrics.

Supplies Needed

• Metal bowl
• Water
• Hydrogen peroxide

Instructions

1. In a metal bowl, combine 2 cups of cold water with ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide.
   
2. Mix the two and add the stained shirt to the bowl, fully submerging it.
   
3. Soak the garment in the mixture for 30 minutes.
   
4. After soaking, the shirt can be washed as usual. However, check to make sure the stain has fully lifted before drying it; drying the shirt with the stain still present will likely permanently set the stain. 

Method 4: Baking Soda and Vinegar

If all else fails, turn to baking soda and vinegar to clean your stained black shirt. Berkley explains that baking soda has similar properties to vinegar and can be another good stain-removal method to try.

Supplies Needed

• Distilled white vinegar
• Water
• Soft-bristled cleaning brush (or toothbrush)
• Baking soda
  

Instructions

1. Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
2. Turn the stained shirt inside out and apply the solution to the stain. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. Taking a soft-bristled brush, gently scrub in a circular direction.
4. Rinse with cool water.
5. If the stain is still visible, Martinez recommends making a paste of equal parts baking soda and water. Apply this mixture to the stain and repeat the scrubbing process.

Tips for Removing (and Preventing) Deodorant Stains 

To prevent future deodorant stains (and the need for their subsequent removal), let your deodorant dry completely before dressing. You may also want to consider switching to a clear or gel deodorant if you often find the arms of your black clothing covered in unsightly stains. Higher aluminum deodorants also tend to leave more chalky marks than their all-natural counterparts.

Like many stains, deodorant marks are easier to remove the earlier you catch them. (So don't wait to pre-treat them!) And do not dry the garment before the stain has been removed—the high heat from your dryer can further set stains.

And finally, if the stain is on more delicate materials, like silk, satin, velvet, or wool, it is always best to find a trusted dry cleaner who can safely remove the stain without damage.