Helpful Hints

Stain Removal without Chlorine

The best way to remove stains underarm stains from white or light colored clothes without the use of chlorine bleach is to immediately soak the stain for two hours in distilled white vinegar (1 cup to 1 gallon of warm water). The vinegar helps to neutralize the chemicals in the perspiration that cuase stains. After soaking, apply a teaspoon of natural laundry detergent directly to the stain and wash immediately in the hottest water safe for the fabric. You may also want to add 1/4 cup of baking soda to the water to boost the cleaning power of the detergent. Adding Tea Tree oil will also help to neutralize the bacteria. Prior to drying the garment, check for remaining stains and repeat procedure if necessary. Do not dry until stains are gone as this will cause the stain to set permanently. If unable to wash immediately, saturate stain with straight vinegar and let set.