How to Get Deodorant Stains Out of Bras: Quick Tips

Close-up of a hand applying deodorant, leaving visible white stains on a black fabric.

We’ve all been there — putting on your favorite bra, only to notice those stubborn deodorant stains that just don’t seem to want to come out. It can feel impossible to figure out how to get deodorant stains out of bras, but don’t worry; we will provide all the answers below so you never have to wonder again!

In this guide, we will delve into what causes deodorant stains, effective ways to remove them, and how to prevent them. Plus, we will explore why Bleuet bras are a perfect choice when it comes to your comfort as a teenager. Ready to learn some life hacks and remove deodorant stains from your wardrobe for good? Let’s get started!

How to Get Deodorant Stains Out of Bras

There are numerous methods for getting deodorant stains out of bras, including mixing baking soda and water together, using white vinegar, and even applying hydrogen peroxide. Lemon juice is also a great option (for lighter bras only!) We explore these options — and more — in greater detail below!

What Causes Deodorant Stains on Bras?

Deodorant marks on bras usually appear as white streaks (deodorant residue) or yellow stains (from chemical reactions between these products and your body). But before we go into more detail, let’s clear up a common misconception.

Deodorants and antiperspirants are often thought to be the same, but they actually serve different purposes. However, both can contribute to stains on your bras:

  • Antiperspirants: work by reducing sweat through aluminum-based compounds that temporarily block your sweat pores. Antiperspirants, with their aluminum content, can lead to visible stains, as aluminum reacts with sweat.
  • Deodorants: mask and neutralize odor. They don’t contain aluminum[1], but they can still cause stains when mixed with sweat and bacteria on your skin.

Sweat is produced by two main types of glands: eccrine glands, which release watery sweat to cool your body down, and apocrine glands, which are concentrated in areas such as your armpits and groin, producing a thicker sweat containing proteins and fats. When this thicker sweat interacts with deodorants or antiperspirants, it can result in stains. 

Did You Know? Sweat itself is actually odorless. It is other factors like bacteria, hormones, and your diet that can cause an unpleasant smell.

It’s important to know that deodorant stains can show up differently depending on your bra color. Darker bras are more likely to show white streaks from deodorant residue, while lighter bras may develop yellow stains over time, caused by a combination of sweat, deodorant, and body oils.

Rear view of a teen with visible sweat droplets on her neck and back.

Can You Remove Deodorant Stains From Bras Easily?

Whether or not deodorant stains come out easily depends on the type of stain and your bra’s fabric. White streaks are usually easier to get rid of since they don’t penetrate the fabric deeply. Yellow stains, however, can be trickier because they build up over a period of time.

Fabric also plays a big role. Delicate materials like lace or silk need more care to avoid damage, while cotton or polyester bras are more durable and easier to clean. 

Did You Know? Numerous bras in our Bleuet range are made using materials such as cotton and polyester, giving you less of a headache to clean!

How to Get Sweat and Deodorant Stains Out of Bras: 9 Top Tips

Whether you’re dealing with white streaks or those tougher yellow stains, we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve separated the methods into solutions for white streaks and tips for more stubborn stains so you can make your bras look as good as new in no time, no matter the blemishes caused by deodorants!

Note: Please ensure you check with a parent or guardian before trying these methods, especially when using products such as hydrogen peroxide or aspirin. It is best to try these tips under adult supervision.

For White Streaks

1. Tights 

Next time you get a ladder in your tights, don’t throw them away! They are actually a great method for removing white deodorant marks. Just roll a pair of tights into a ball, rub gently over the white streaks, and they’ll lift the residue right off.

2. Dryer Sheets 

Hand placing a dryer sheet into a washing machine, demonstrating that dryer sheets are a great solution for how to get deodorant stains out of bras.

Another solution for white streaks on bras is dryer sheets. If you’re in a pinch, grab a used dryer sheet and rub it over the white marks. Make sure that you do this with a used and completely dry dryer sheet as opposed to a fresh one. Otherwise, it may leave some residue on your bra, completely defeating the purpose. Used dryer sheets, however, are a fantastic solution for how to get deodorant stains out of bras.

3. Makeup Wipes 

If makeup wipes can take off mascara, they can handle deodorant streaks, too! Gently wipe over the white marks, and the residue will disappear. It’s especially useful when you need a quick fix on the go. Wet wipes work just as well.

These first three tips have demonstrated how to get deodorant stains out of black bras, and any other color, removing those annoying white streaks of deodorant residue. Next, let’s consider how you can remove tougher streaks and stains.

For Tougher Streaks and Stains

4. Baking Soda and Water

Jar of baking soda with a spoonful of it spilled on a gray surface, another tip for how to get deodorant stains out of bras.

When using baking soda and water, the key is to get the ratio right. It should be a 3:1 ratio, so mix three parts baking soda with one part water, forming a paste. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for several hours, preferably in sunlight. Then, carefully remove the paste and wash your bra as normal.

5. White Vinegar

White vinegar is also effective at deodorant stain removal. Mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with one cup of water and soak the stained area for about an hour or two (depending on the severity of the stain). After soaking, gently brush the stain with a clean, spare toothbrush and wash the bra as normal. White vinegar is suitable to use on both light and dark undergarments.

6. Hydrogen Peroxide

Our next tip for how to get deodorant stains out of bras is to use hydrogen peroxide. Soak the bra in a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for at least an hour. Afterward, make sure that you rinse and wash. Be cautious of using hydrogen peroxide on non-white clothes as it has bleaching properties. If you wish to try this method on a colored bra, ensure you do a quick test first.

7. Aspirin Paste

White bottle with aspirin tablets spilling out onto a blue surface.

Got aspirin at home? Crush two tablets and mix them in half a cup of boiling hot water to form a paste. Spread it over the stain and let it sit for a few hours before washing. The salicylic acid in aspirin helps break down the compounds in sweat, making it a great solution for yellow stains. Again, it’s a good idea to conduct a quick test to check if the paste is appropriate for your bra’s fabric.

8. Enzyme-Based Detergents

Enzyme-based detergents are perfect for breaking down stains. You can use it instead of your normal laundry detergent. Make sure to read the instructions for the specific product you buy and follow them carefully and safely. 

9. Lemon Juice

A glass bowl of fresh lemon juice next to whole and halved lemons on a white surface.

Last but not least, our final solution for how to get deodorant stains out of bras is lemon juice. Did you know that it is a natural stain fighter? Mix lemon juice with an equal amount of cold water. Leave it in sunlight for an hour or so, then rinse and wash. Please be aware that this only works on lighter bras, as lemon juice can lighten darker fabrics.

Did You Know? At Bleuet, we like to use moisture-wicking fabrics for our bras, keeping you dry and comfortable all day long. These special materials pull sweat away from your skin and allow it to evaporate quickly, reducing the chance of deodorant and sweat stains. 

Easy Ways to Prevent Deodorant Stains on Bras

We have just listed numerous techniques for how to get sweat and deodorant stains out of bras. However, preventing these marks in the first place will save you the trouble of spending time treating and trying to fix your clothes. Let’s consider a few easy ways to prevent getting stains on bras:

  • Let it Dry: Always wait for deodorant to dry completely before putting on clothes.
  • Apply Sparingly: Do not overload on deodorant. Use only what you need, and this can prevent excess residue.
  • Avoid Aluminum: If you use antiperspirants, choose a product that does not contain aluminum. As mentioned earlier, aluminum reacts with sweat, resulting in visible stains.
  • Wash Bras Regularly: Frequent washing prevents buildup from sweat and products. It is a good idea to wash bras after every use to ensure any marks do not have the chance to set in and begin to stain. Follow the instructions on the bra’s label for recommended washing techniques.

Did You Know? At Bleuet, all of our apparel is machine washable, ensuring straightforward, easy bra care. We recommend that you wash Bleuet undergarments with similar colors and in cold water for the best results.

Discover Bleuet for Everyday Comfort and Freshness

Two teen girls wearing Bleuet bras with their arms around each other’s backs and smiling, demonstrating how Bleuet’s range is designed with comfort and freshness in mind.

Bleuet understands that girls, tweens, and teens need bras that are not only comfortable but practical, including when it comes to staying fresh all day long. 

Here are a few reasons why our bras are an excellent option:

  • Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Bleuet bras are crafted from high-quality moisture-wicking fabrics designed to keep sweat at bay so you can stay dry and comfortable. We strive to use materials that are lightweight as well as breathable, keeping you fresh and confident.
  • Machine Washable: Every Bleuet bra is machine washable, making it easy to keep your undergarments clean.
  • All-Day Comfort: Designed with teens in mind, Bleuet bras feature minimal seams and no tags to prevent irritation and ensure comfort. 
  • Perfect Fit for Every Body: Bleuet offers a wide range of sizes and skin-tone options, ensuring that every girl finds her perfect match. A proper fit means less movement, reducing friction and buildup of deodorant and sweat, which helps prevent stains.
  • 5-Star Reviews: We have received over 6,000 five-star reviews for our undergarments to date, demonstrating that our products are loved by many teens just like you!

At Bleuet, we make it easy to stay confident and comfortable all day with bras that help keep you feeling fresh, dry, and ready to take on the world. Discover our collection, including soft cup bras, training bras, and sports bras for teenagers, and find your new favorite bra today!

Conclusion

Figuring out how to get deodorant stains out of bras doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether it’s white streaks or yellow stains, by following the top tips in this guide, you can keep your bras feeling fresh and clean wear after wear. And remember, for bras that keep you comfortable and confident all day long, check out our top-rated undergarments at Bleuet, designed with you in mind.

FAQs

How do you get dried deodorant stains out?

To remove dried deodorant stains, there are numerous methods for getting them out of clothing. For white streaks, you can gently rub tights or a used dryer sheet over the stain or use a makeup wipe to lift the residue. For tougher stains, you can try other options, such as baking soda and water and white vinegar.

 

How to get underarm stains out of bras?

There are numerous methods listed in this article for getting underarm stains out of bras, including lemon juice (for white bras only), white vinegar, and aspirin paste, amongst other options.

 

How to get armpit smell out of bras?

A common technique for removing the armpit smell from bras is to soak the undergarment in a basin of water mixed with a ¼ cup of white vinegar for half an hour before washing.

 

What is the best stain remover for bras?

It is a great idea to use an enzyme-based laundry detergent to remove stains.

References

[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/what-to-know-about-aluminum-in-deodorant 


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