How to Remove Sweat Stains from Clothes

Sweat stains are inevitable when the temperatures rise! Learn some new tips and techniques for removing sweat stains from clothes of all kinds.

Updated December 7, 2019

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Laundry

We all hate sweat stains on our clothes. It’s easy to feel unhygienic and unattractive with unsightly marks around the edges and seams of our garments. If you’ve had a tough time removing these marks, and would like to know exactly how to get sweat stains out of clothes for good, never fear –with the right products and treatment it is much easier to get rid of the sight and smell of sweat.

Getting rid of sweat stains may be your priority, but knowing how to remove sweat smell from clothes is also essential. Choosing an OMO detergent with a fabric conditioner like Comfort added in can help to make sure your clothes smell fresh and clean. To keep your clothes free of a damp smell, dry your clothes naturally outdoors, and ensure that they dry properly before storing them.

Before you Remove Sweat Stains…

Whatever product you choose to remove sweat stains, it’s important to check the label to ensure you are using it safely and effectively. Do a test run on a small, unnoticeable area of clothing first to be certain. Similarly, always check the labels on your clothing, paying particular attention to the suggested wash temperature limit and the material the item is made of.

How to Get Rid of Sweat Stains

The right laundry detergent is an essential factor in successful sweat stain removal. The proteins in sweat – and their interaction with deodorant chemicals – are one of the reasons sweat stains can be so persistent. However, there is a way to fight these stubborn stains: biological laundry detergents contain enzymes, which are designed to break down protein stains. Here’s how to use laundry detergent to help remove sweat stains:

Use a good quality laundry detergent as a pre-treatment – try something like OMO Liquid, which is specifically designed to be used in this way.
Pour the detergent directly onto the affected area, gently rub it into the stain, and leave it to soak into the fibres for 5-10 minutes
Then wash and rinse as normal, below 40°.

If traces of the stain remain and the garment is white, leave it in direct sunlight, spraying with water occasionally so that the sweat ‘tide line’ and scent evaporate.

Tip: Add a cup of vinegar to your wash, along with laundry detergent, to help remove any lingering sweat smells.

How to Remove Sweat Stains on White Clothes

If your clothes are white, sweat stains can be removed using a little hydrogen peroxide. Remember to wear gloves and protect your clothing and eyes from splashes when using powerful cleaning chemicals. Follow the directions on the packet and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area of the garment first.

To remove sweat stains with hydrogen peroxide, soak the stain in approximately 50% solution of water and hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes – adjust the quantity according to the instructions on the product label.
Rinse with cool water, and let it dry naturally.
If the stain is still visible, repeat the treatment.

Sweat stain removal is easy when you know how! You can find hints and tips on removing other kinds of stain – and fabric specific advice – here; your clothes will look smart and fresh as ever in no time.

Don’t let sweat stains build up from repeated wear; treat sweat stains as soon as they start to appear.

Pre-treat the stain with a laundry detergent that specializes in stain removal, like OMO Liquid.

If your garment is white then you can use hydrogen peroxide. See below for a step-by-step guide.

If your garment is coloured or black, like an Abaya, take care to read the label for specific instructions on washing it.

Dry your garment naturally, preferably in direct sunlight.

Remember to follow the instructions on any cleaning product you use and to test the solution on an inconspicuous area of the clothing first.

Originally published October 18, 2018