De-yellow
This discoloration is a result of sweat and antiperspirant build-up on fabric. Rinse stains for 15 seconds with cool water to dilute trapped salts and acids. (Also do this for shirts that you take for laundering and air-dry.) Work in enzyme-containing liquid detergent (such as Skip Fibre Protect, R72,99); let it sit for 15 minutes. Wash in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric, with fabric-safe bleach.
De-stink
Sweat itself is odourless, but bacteria on your skin make it stink, and fabrics then absorb and trap these smells. Combat mild odours by adding a cup of bicarbonate of soda each to your machine’s wash and rinse cycles. For a stubborn stench, dilute three tablespoons of salt (to help kill bacteria) in a basin of warm water and soak the garment for about an hour, then rinse and wash as usual.
Make it easier next time
• Make sure your antiperspirant is dry before you dress. Choose a solid stick over a roll-on or gel, which fabrics absorb more.
• Address sweaty shirts sooner rather than later – allowing them to sit in the laundry basket for a few days doesn’t do the fabric any favours.
Text originally appeared in Good Housekeeping September 2012.
