Removing deodorant stains from clothing can take a lot of work. Suggestions abound for how to properly remove deodorant stains, and there seems to be no one definitive method that all agree will work. In all cases, one should test any method on a small, unseen part of the clothing before trying it on the stains. Some fabrics may be more vulnerable to detergents, bleaches or ammonia.

Almost all methods begin with “treat the deodorant stains as soon as possible.” This is because deodorant stains will set, and one has a better chance of removing them sooner than later. One method advocates taking a pair of nylons and rubbing the stains. This is a safe method to try on just about any fabric, since it will not harm the fabric.

Others suggest washing a garment inside out to remove deodorant stains. Direct exposure to the agitation of the machine is thought to easily remove stains. However, this method cannot be used with fabrics that must be hand washed or dry-cleaned.

Some advocate rubbing deodorant stains with a paste made from baking soda, or using whitening toothpaste and allowing the fabric to sit overnight. Many detergents may also contain whitening agents that will effectively remove deodorant stains. On dark clothing, however, this method may cause discoloration of the fabric.

Many swear by the vinegar method. Apply vinegar to the deodorant stains and let the garment sit overnight in a vinegar and water solution. Use white vinegar, and not wine, balsamic or apple cider vinegar. Do not mix vinegar and baking powder as this can cause a messy chemical reaction.

Some people say if the deodorant stains are treated soon enough the best method is to use a stain remover like Shout®. This again should be used with caution on delicate fabrics. Many feel that a stain sick, similar in look to a deodorant stick, is better than spray stain removers.

If one notices deodorant stains on clothes that must be dry cleaned, be sure to point these stains out to one’s dry cleaner and get the garment to the cleaners as soon as possible. Sometimes dry-cleaning will remove a stain.

There are a plethora of other suggestions, and one may have to experiment with several methods before finding the ideal technique for removing deodorant stains. To avoid stains in the future, look for antiperspirants or deodorants that are advertised as non-staining.