30 May Summer Stain Removal Tips: How to Tackle Sweat, Sunscreen & Deodorant Stains This Summer

Summer brings sunshine, holidays, and unfortunately, some tough stains. Whether it’s sweat rings on your favourite shirt, greasy marks from sunscreen, or white streaks from deodorant, warm weather can really do a number on your clothes. But don’t worry—there are effective ways to fight back. In this post, you’ll discover practical and proven Summer Stain Removal Tips to keep your wardrobe fresh all season long.

Why Sweat, Sunscreen and Deodorant Stains Are So Stubborn

Summer stains don’t just appear out of nowhere—they result from chemical reactions between your body, your products, and your clothing. Each one has its unique cause, which makes them harder to remove with just a standard wash.

Sweat stains form when your body releases salts and proteins. These substances bond with the fibres in your clothing, especially in the underarm area. When mixed with aluminium compounds found in many antiperspirants, the sweat can turn yellow and stiff over time. This reaction becomes more noticeable on light-coloured fabrics.

Sunscreen stains, on the other hand, are often oil-based. Ingredients like avobenzone can react with minerals in hard water or chlorine, creating stubborn orange or brown patches, especially on white or pale clothing. These greasy marks also resist water, making them difficult to wash out unless treated correctly.

Deodorant stains typically appear as chalky white streaks on dark clothing or create a buildup over time. This happens when deodorant transfers onto the fabric and doesn’t get washed out properly. Over time, the residue collects, making the fabric stiff and discoloured.

Knowing what causes each type of stain helps you choose the most effective Summer Stain Removal Tips—and saves your favourite outfits from the bin.

Summer Stain Removal Tips for Every Type of Stain

Let’s break it down by stain type so you can target each one with the right method.

✅ Sweat Stains: Tackle Them Quickly and Naturally

Sweat stains are a common nuisance during the summer months. If you leave them untreated, they can turn into permanent yellow patches, especially on white or light-coloured tops. Fortunately, with a few smart steps and the right Summer Stain Removal Tips, you can stop sweat stains in their tracks.

• Act fast. The longer a sweat stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove. As soon as you notice discolouration, rinse the area with cold water to flush out salts and body oils. Avoid hot water at this stage—it can set the stain.
• Create a natural paste. Mix four tablespoons of baking soda with a quarter cup of water until it forms a smooth paste. Apply this mixture directly to the stained area and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or old toothbrush. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the solution to break down the stain.
• Add vinegar to boost stain removal. If the stain remains, pour white vinegar over the paste before washing. Vinegar acts as a natural fabric brightener and helps neutralise any lingering odour.
• Wash as usual. Launder the item in warm water (as long as it’s safe for the fabric) with your regular detergent. For an extra boost, add half a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle.

With these natural and effective Summer Stain Removal Tips, you won’t need harsh chemicals to get your clothes looking brand new again. Plus, by treating sweat stains quickly, you’ll extend the life of your favourite summer outfits.

✅ Sunscreen Marks: Remove Grease and Mineral Stains

Sunscreen is essential for skin protection, but it often leaves behind greasy, discoloured marks, especially on light-coloured clothing. These stains can be particularly stubborn because sunscreen contains oils, silicones, and minerals that bind tightly to fabric fibres. Fortunately, with the right Summer Stain Removal Tips, you can deal with these marks quickly and effectively.

• Blot the stain first. As soon as you notice a sunscreen mark, use a clean paper towel or cloth to blot (not rub) any excess product. This prevents the oils from spreading deeper into the fabric.
• Absorb the grease. Sprinkle the stained area with cornflour, talcum powder, or even bicarbonate of soda. These powders soak up oils from the surface of the fabric. Leave the powder on for 15 to 30 minutes, then gently shake or brush it off.
• Pre-treat with washing-up liquid. Apply a small amount of washing-up liquid (which is designed to cut through grease) directly to the stain. Work it into the fabric using your fingers or a soft brush. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to lift the oily residue.
• Wash at the highest safe temperature. Check the care label first. If it allows, wash the garment in the warmest water the fabric can handle, using a quality laundry detergent. For added power, consider using a stain remover specifically designed for oil-based stains.
• Avoid tumble drying too soon. Heat can set the stain permanently, so air dry the item first. If the stain persists, repeat the steps before drying again.

✅ Deodorant Stains: Eliminate White Streaks and Build-up

Deodorant stains are annoying, especially when you’re getting dressed in a rush. Those chalky white streaks on dark clothing—or the stiff, yellowish residue on light fabrics—can make even a freshly washed shirt look worn out. Thankfully, you can fix the issue easily with the right Summer Stain Removal Tips.

• Act before washing. Many people throw stained clothes straight into the machine, but this can set the stain. Instead, treat the area as soon as possible.
• Use natural solutions. Mix equal parts lemon juice and bicarbonate of soda to create a fizzing stain-fighting paste. Rub it into the stained area gently, let it sit for 15–30 minutes, and then rinse with cool water. This natural mix helps dissolve residue and neutralise odours.
• Try white vinegar for build-up. Soak stubborn underarm stains in a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Let it soak for an hour, then wash as usual. This method works particularly well on set-in stains and deodorant build-up that’s hardened over time.
• Avoid bleach on coloured fabrics. It might seem like a quick fix, but bleach can react with sweat and deodorant, making stains worse or causing further discolouration.
• Wash with care. After pre-treating, launder the garment in warm water with a quality detergent. Make sure the stain is fully gone before tumble drying, as heat can lock it in permanently.

These targeted Summer Stain Removal Tips work wonders on both fresh and set-in deodorant stains.

How Can NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning Help?

Tackling tough summer stains at home can be time-consuming, and sometimes, even the best DIY methods don’t deliver perfect results. That’s where NeatEx Laundrette & Dry Cleaning comes in.

Our professional team specialises in removing sweat, sunscreen, and deodorant stains using advanced cleaning techniques and high-quality products. We know how to treat different fabrics with the care they deserve, so you never have to worry about damaging your favourite garments.

Whether it’s your delicate summer dresses, crisp white shirts, or everyday essentials, we make sure everything comes back looking fresh, clean, and stain-free. And if you’re short on time, our convenient pick-up and delivery service makes laundry easier than ever.

So instead of stressing over stubborn marks, let NeatEx handle the hard work—because your summer wardrobe deserves expert care.

Keep Your Summer Clothes Looking Brand New

Maintaining clean, stain-free clothing in summer doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach and a few smart Summer Stain Removal Tips, you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh and vibrant all season.

Remember: treat stains early, use the right solutions for each type, and always read care labels before applying any treatment. A little extra effort goes a long way in preserving your summer style.