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How to Get Sweat And Yellowing Stains Out

Body oils and salts that yellow fabrics over time.

Quick answer

Fresh Sweat And Yellowing on Cotton

Before you startAlways test any treatment in an inconspicuous area first, and check the garment's care label before you begin.
  1. Soak the stained area in white vinegar for 30 minutes.
  2. Rub in a paste of baking soda and water.
  3. Launder in the hottest water the care label allows.
  4. Air-dry and check before drying.

Don’t do this

  • Do not use chlorine bleach on yellowed sweat stains — it can yellow them further.

Sources: Kair; University of Georgia Extension

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Sweat And Yellowing on specific materials

Sweat And Yellowing on CottonFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on LinenFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on PolyesterFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on NylonFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on SilkFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on WoolFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on DenimFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on LeatherFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on SuedeFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on Upholstery fabricFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on Carpet/rugFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on WoodFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on Stainless steelFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on Stone/marbleFresh & dried steps Sweat And Yellowing on Plastic/laminateFresh & dried steps

Frequently asked questions

What's the yellow in sweat stains?

A mix of body oils, salts, and urea that oxidizes — plus antiperspirant residue. Vinegar pre-soaks break it down.

Does bleach fix yellowed shirts?

Chlorine bleach can actually yellow protein-based stains further. Use vinegar and baking soda instead.

Safety rules for every treatment
  • Test every treatment in an inconspicuous area first — some treatments can fade dyes or damage finishes.
  • Blot a wet stain; never rub it. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper into fibers.
  • Check the garment's care label and follow it — skip any step the label prohibits.
  • Never put the item in the dryer until the stain is completely gone; heat sets most stains.
  • Never mix ammonia with chlorine bleach — the fumes are toxic and dangerous.
  • Never use chlorine bleach on rust — it can intensify the stain.
  • Rubbing alcohol is flammable and can fade some dyes; spot-test first and ventilate the area.
  • Acetone dissolves acetate, triacetate, and modacrylic fabrics — check the fabric label first.
  • Use cold water first on blood and other protein stains; hot water sets them.
  • When in doubt — a valuable, vintage, or delicate item — take it to a professional cleaner instead.

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