How to Remove Armpit Stains From Dress Shirts

There’s nothing more dreadful than dealing with underarm stains on dress shirts. And let’s face it: asking someone how to remove sweat stains from a dress shirt isn’t an ideal topic to bring up in casual conversation.

Well, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide on how to get rid of sweat stains on dress shirts — and how to prevent them in the future.

5 DIY Methods
3 Off-the-Shelf Solutions
Removing Stains From White Dress Shirts
Removing Stains From Colored Dress Shirts
Removing Stains From Silk Shirts
Removing Shirt Collar Stains
Removing Set-In Stains

How Do Armpit Stains on Dress Shirts Even Happen?

Sweat itself is both odorless and colorless, so what’s causing those unsightly yellow stains to show up on your favorite dress shirts? The answer lies in an unexpected culprit: your deodorant.

Most deodorants and antiperspirants contain aluminum-based compounds, which are designed to reduce sweating by temporarily blocking your sweat glands. However, when aluminum mixes with the natural salts in your sweat, a chemical reaction occurs that produces those stubborn yellow stains. Over time, the combination of sweat, aluminum, and fabric fibers creates a buildup that gets harder to remove the longer it sits.

The golden rule for stain prevention is to rinse or wash your shirt immediately before the stain has time to set. But let’s face it—no one’s reaching for the detergent in the middle of a work meeting or during a first date (unless it’s in the laundromat).

That’s why knowing how to treat set-in stains is just as important as understanding how to prevent them. Even if you can’t tackle a stain right away, the right methods (whether DIY or store-bought) can help you restore your shirt later on.

5 DIY Methods to Remove Armpit Stains From Dress Shirts

Here are five ways to remove armpit stains on dress shirts with ingredients you probably already have at home.

Key steps to follow for all methods:

Pre-Treatment Scrubbing: Use an old toothbrush or a soft laundry brush to gently work the cleaning solution into the fabric. This helps loosen embedded particles.
Soaking: After applying the treatment, soak the shirt in warm or cold water (depending on the fabric) for 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate deeper.
Washing: Wash the shirt in your washing machine using a cycle appropriate for the fabric. Use cold water for delicate or dark materials to prevent damage or fading.
Air Drying: Let the shirt air dry to ensure the stain is completely gone before applying heat (from an iron or dryer), as heat can set stains permanently.

1. Detergent Spot Treatment

Mix 1 part liquid detergent (preferably enzyme-based) with 1 part hot water, and apply it directly to the stain.

Why It Works: Enzyme-based detergents target proteins and oils in sweat stains, breaking them down for easier removal.
How to Do It: Apply the mixture to the stained area, gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing.
Extra Tip: Look for detergents labeled “stain-fighting” or “enzyme-powered” for the best results. For delicate fabrics, opt for a mild detergent and cold water instead of hot.

2. Multi-Ingredient Stain Fighter

Combine:

1 cup white vinegar (removes odor and loosens buildup)
1 cup baking soda (natural deodorizer and abrasive cleaner)
1 tablespoon salt (helps scrub the fabric)
1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide (oxidizes and bleaches stains)
Mix into a paste and apply directly to the stain.

Why It Works: This combination relies on chemical reactions (like baking soda neutralizing acids) and physical scrubbing to tackle tough stains. Hydrogen peroxide breaks down stain-causing molecules and is especially effective on yellowing from sweat and deodorant.
Note: Hydrogen peroxide can lighten fabric, so avoid it on dark or colored shirts unless you test it on an inconspicuous area first.
Pro Tip: If the stain persists, repeat the process before washing. Be patient—this method is particularly effective for old, set-in stains.

3. Lemon Juice Solution

Mix equal parts fresh lemon juice and warm water (e.g., ½ cup each) and apply to the stain.

Why It Works: Lemon juice contains citric acid, which naturally breaks down sweat and deodorant residues. It’s also mildly antibacterial and helps neutralize odors.
How to Do It: Apply the mixture, scrub gently with a toothbrush, and let it soak for 20-30 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly.
Extra Insight: Lemon juice is ideal for white shirts, but its acidity can weaken fibers if overused, so limit frequent applications.

4. Aspirin Paste

Crush 3-4 uncoated aspirins and mix with ½ cup warm water to form a paste. Apply it to the stained area.

Why It Works: Aspirin contains acetylsalicylic acid, which chemically resembles acetic acid (found in vinegar). It helps to dissolve sweat stains and lighten discoloration.
How to Do It: After applying the paste, let it sit for 30 minutes. Use a toothbrush to scrub gently before rinsing and washing.
Note: Only pure aspirin works—other pain relievers, like Tylenol, contain different active ingredients and won’t be effective.

5. Meat Tenderizer

Mix unseasoned meat tenderizer with water to create a paste and apply it to the stain.

Why It Works: Meat tenderizers contain enzymes like papain or bromelain, which break down proteins. These enzymes can target the protein-based components of sweat stains, such as keratin from skin cells and deodorant residue.
How to Do It: Apply the paste, scrub gently, and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly before washing.
Extra Tip: Always use unseasoned meat tenderizer to avoid adding new stains from spices or colorants.

3 Off-the-Shelf Solutions to Remove Armpit Stains From Dress Shirts

If you’re looking for quick, reliable ways to remove pit stains with store-bought remedies, these pre-treatment solutions are highly effective:

OxiClean Max Force Foam Laundry Pre-Treater
- This foam penetrates deep into fabrics to lift sweat stains and other stubborn grime. It’s suitable for most washable fabrics and works particularly well on set-in stains.
- Tip: Apply it directly to the stain, let it sit for at least 10 minutes, and then wash as usual.
Sweat X Sport Extreme Stain Remover
- Designed for athletes, this stain remover tackles sweat, odor, and body oil stains. It’s perfect for high-performance or moisture-wicking fabrics but also works wonders on dress shirts.
- Tip: Spray generously on the stain, scrub lightly with a brush, and let it soak before laundering.
Pit Stop
- A gentler option made from plant-based ingredients, it’s great for those who want an eco-friendly solution. It’s safe for delicate fabrics and effective on yellowing caused by sweat and deodorant buildup.
- Tip: Use as directed and pair with cold water for delicate or colored fabrics to avoid fading.

Always check the care instructions on your garment before using any off-the-shelf solution, as some may not be suitable for certain materials.

How to Remove Stains From White Dress Shirts

Bleach may seem like a logical choice for removing sweat stains from white shirts, but it can backfire. Instead of removing the stain, bleach can oxidize the proteins in sweat, making the stain darker.

Instead, stick to oxygen-based cleaners like OxiClean, or opt for one of the DIY methods described earlier. Depending on the fabric, washing in hot water helps keep shirts bright. If the fabric is delicate, use warm water to prevent shrinkage or damage.

How to Remove Stains From Colored Dress Shirts

Colored dress shirts are particularly tricky because sweat stains tend to show more prominently, and common DIY treatments like hydrogen peroxide can cause fading or discoloration.

Best Approach: Soak the shirt in a solution of cold water and white vinegar (1:2 ratio) for 30 minutes.
After Soaking: Gently rub the stained area to loosen the sweat residue, rinse thoroughly, and wash as usual.
Tip: Avoid abrasive scrubbing on delicate or dark fabrics to prevent damage.

Always test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area before treating the entire stain to ensure the fabric’s color stays intact.

Read more: What Colors Show Sweat the Least?

How to Remove Stains From Silk Shirts

Silk requires extra care due to its delicate nature, and many silk garments are labeled "dry clean only."

Immediate Action: Blot the sweat stain with a damp cloth to lift excess residue. Avoid rubbing, as this can damage the fabric.
Professional Cleaning: Take the garment to a dry cleaner and point out the stains so they can use specialized treatments.
At-Home Option (If Allowed): For washable silk, use a mild detergent designed for delicates and cool water. Let the stained area soak for 15-20 minutes before rinsing.

Avoid using DIY methods like baking soda or vinegar on silk, as they can weaken the fibers.

How o Remove Shirt Collar Stains

If you tend to sweat on your face or head, you might have problems removing “ring around the collar” stains. Most soiled collars are due to a combination of sweat, body oils, dead skin cells and residue from styling products.

Here’s a simple, effective way to tackle them:

Lay your shirt flat with the collar facing up.
Apply liquid detergent, dish soap, or a pre-treatment solution directly to the stained area.
Rub the solution into the fabric gently using your fingers or a soft brush.
Let the treated area soak for at least 30 minutes.
Wash the shirt as usual and air dry to confirm the stain is gone.

If you have craniofacial hyperhidrosis and use antiperspirant to control excessive sweating on your face and head, the antiperspirant may be contributing to your collar stains. In this case, opt for lightweight fabrics and avoid using heavy styling products that may contribute to collar stains.

How to Remove Set-In Stains

Did you wait too long to treat a sweat stain? Or did you already wash and dry a sweat-stained shirt and now can't get the stain out? Removing set-in stains is more difficult, but with persistence, you can still rescue your shirt.

Pre-Treatment: Apply a generous amount of your chosen cleaning solution (off-the-shelf or DIY) to the stain.
Extended Soaking: Increase soaking time to 1-2 hours, or even overnight, depending on the severity of the stain.
Elbow Grease: Use a soft brush to scrub the stain gently after soaking. Be careful with delicate fabrics to avoid damage.

For particularly stubborn stains, repeat the process or combine methods. For example, follow up an OxiClean soak with a detergent pre-treatment for extra power.

Get Rid of Armpit Stains on Dress Shirts With Thompson Tee

The best way to get rid of armpit stains on your dress shirts is to stop them before they start.

Thompson Tees are the ultimate solution for sweat stains. With patented Hydro-Shield technology built into the armpits, these sweatproof undershirts for men and women stop 100% of sweat and odor from seeping through, keeping your dress shirts spotless.

Ready to reclaim your confidence? Try a Thompson Tee risk-free today!