1 of 3

Write now Article Tools

To save both my health and the environment, I try to use natural cleaning products whenever possible. The groundwater has enough pollutants without me adding to the problem. Some of the most common household cleaners are potential carcinogens. With my family history, I don't need any more help getting sick, thank you.

I have also found some natural ways to remove stains from clothing. There are several non-toxic ways to remove stains from laundry.

Deodorant Stains
All of us at one time or another have gotten deodorant stains on a favorite item of clothing. Don't resort to throwing away your favorite t-shirt if you haven't tried these methods first:

Salt. Yes, salt. Salt will remove many deodorant stains. It is safe to use salt on colored as well as white clothing. Get the t-shirt wet and sprinkle salt on the stains. Let it sit, overnight if possible. Just before washing, scrub the stained wet t-shirt with a little more salt before throwing in the washing machine. The salt will not harm the rest of the clothing. If the stained item can be placed in the sun and kept wet, it will be even more effective.

Vodka is also an effective stain remover and works well on deodorant stains. Just pour some vodka on the stain before washing. Rub in a bit. If the deodorant stain is substantial or has already been put in the dryer, let the vodka sit for at least a couple of hours. There is no need to rinse out the vodka before adding the shirt to the washer. There will be no alcohol smell in your laundry.

Vinegar is another safe, effective way to remove deodorant stains from clothing. Simply rub the stained area with vinegar. Add the stained shirt to the washing machine with the rest of the clothing. An added benefit to using vinegar in the washing machine is that is also softens clothes.

With any of these methods, use the hottest water temperature that is safe to use on the stained shirt. Also rub in some laundry detergent directly onto the stain just before placing the garment into the washer. This will increase the odds that the deodorant stain will come out. Be sure to test an inconspicuous area first to make sure the stain remover is safe to use on the fabric.

Witch hazel and denatured alcohol are also effective at removing deodorant stains. Simply follow the same steps mentioned above. Rub into the stained area of the shirt. Let sit for an hour or so if the stain is severe. Put a dab of detergent onto the stained area and rub in just before placing the garment into the washer.

Ammonia is also effective using the method mentioned above. But take care to check for colorfastness before trying ammonia to remove stains from clothing.

The chances of removing the stain lessens the longer it is left untreated. Try to treat any stained clothing as soon as possible.

Learn more about this author, Angela Harris.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to remove deodorant stains out of colored clothing?
We want to hear your view. Write now!