Armpit stains are a common laundry problem, but several effective methods can banish them. Reddit users suggest various approaches, depending on the stain's severity and the fabric.
Top Reddit-Recommended Methods:
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Baking Soda, Hydrogen Peroxide, and Dish Soap Paste: Many Redditors recommend a paste of baking soda, hydrogen peroxide (3%), and a few drops of dish soap (like Dawn). Apply this paste to the stain, scrub gently, let it sit for some time (e.g., an hour), and then launder as usual. This method is effective for various stain types and colors, although testing on an inconspicuous area is always recommended for colored fabrics.
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Fels Naptha Soap and Borax Soak: A more powerful approach involves soaking the garment in hot water with borax and grated Fels Naptha soap. After a 15-minute soak, scrub the armpits with the Fels Naptha bar and a washboard. This method is particularly helpful for stubborn, ingrained stains.
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White Vinegar Soak: For white shirts, a soak in white vinegar and water (ratio varies depending on the stain's age and severity, usually a 50/50 mix or more vinegar for older stains) is a popular and effective solution. This can pre-treat the stain before washing.
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OxiClean: Several Reddit users suggest OxiClean as a product that works well on armpit stains. Follow the product instructions for best results.
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Dawn Dish Soap and Water: A simple solution of Dawn dish soap and water, applied directly to the stain, let sit, and then washed normally, can effectively tackle lighter stains.
Choosing the Right Method:
The best method depends on the stain's characteristics:
- Fresh stains: A simple rinse with water or a quick treatment with baking soda paste might suffice.
- Old, set-in stains: The Fels Naptha and borax soak or a paste with hydrogen peroxide is often necessary.
- Delicate fabrics: Test any method on an inconspicuous area before applying it broadly. Gentle hand-washing might be preferable.
- Colored fabrics: Always proceed with caution and test your chosen method on a hidden area first to avoid discoloration.
Important Considerations:
- Always pre-treat before washing: Don't throw stained garments directly into the washing machine. Pre-treating increases the likelihood of stain removal.
- Test on an inconspicuous area: Especially with colored fabrics and potent cleaning agents.
- Launder as usual after treatment: Once you've treated the stain, wash the garment as recommended on the care label.
