Q: I have several white T-shirts with colorful images on them. Even though I use antiperspirant, the underarms of the shirts are getting stained. How can I remove the stains?
— Elias Vujovich
Southington Township
A: Those stains are often a combination of perspiration and a buildup of aluminum or zinc salts from deodorant, and they can be difficult or even impossible to remove. A product called Deo-Go claims to take them out, but I’ve never tried it and can’t vouch for it. You can order it online at www.getdeogo.com.
It’s probably a better idea to focus on preventing underarm stains. Janis Stone, a retired textiles and clothing specialist with Iowa State University, recommends rubbing a little liquid laundry detergent into the underarms of your shirts before you launder them in warm water, or soaking in a pre-soak product and warm water for 15 to 30 minutes before laundering.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen to appear in the paper. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send email to mbrecken@thebeaconjournal.com. Be sure to include your full name, your town and your phone number or email address.
