How to remove sweat stains from clothes

Sweating is nothing to be ashamed of, but most of us don't want it to show on our clothes. If you're wondering how to remove sweat stains, try these tips to keep your clothes smelling fresh.

The good news is that most sweat stains can be removed with a little effort and some specialized stain removal products that you can find at most stores. Here's how to remove sweat stains from your favorite clothes.

How to remove sweat stains on colored clothes

Start by checking the garment's tag. Take it to the dry cleaner if that's the best type of cleaning. If you can do it yourself at home, sponge it with white vinegar first, especially if you see white salt stains or if the fabric is stiff. Then pre-treat with a prewash enzyme stain remover or rub a liquid enzyme cleaner into the stain. Wash immediately in the hottest water safe for the fabric.

After washing, let the garment air dry to ensure the stain is gone. Putting the garment in the dryer before completely removing the stain may help set the stain.

For more stubborn stains, you may also want to add bleach to the wash cycle. Use a product specifically designed for colored clothing and other items that are not safe with chlorine bleach.

To enhance the stain removal effect , you can also soak the clothes in a solution of detergent and water, as instructed below:

1. Pour about 4 liters of warm water into a small basin.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of detergent and stir well.
3. Soak clothes for 30 minutes to an hour before washing.

How to remove sweat stains on white clothes

You should use a similar method to whiten a white shirt. Blot the sweat stain with white vinegar before pre-treating it with an enzyme stain remover or liquid enzyme detergent like Tide. Then wash on the hottest setting safe for the fabric, adding regular bleach for stubborn stains. Soaking the T-shirt in a solution of detergent and soap before washing can also help remove yellow stains. Air dry until you are sure they are gone, as the heat of the dryer can make yellow stains permanent.

How to remove sweat stains on hats

If your favorite baseball cap is starting to look worn, don't throw it in the washing machine just yet. It's best to hand wash it (if safe to do so according to the label instructions) and then scrub away stains with a soft brush (like an old toothbrush or dish brush) before rinsing. Once the stains are gone, pat the cap dry with a towel, reshape it, and let it air dry.

Micah Soto

Update 08 December 2025