Soaking a white T-shirt in bleach can help to remove underarm stains caused by sweat and deodorant buildup. Bleach is a powerful oxidizing agent that can break down and remove many types of stains, including those from sweat and body oils. However, it's essential to use bleach properly and with caution, as it can also damage fabric if not used correctly.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use bleach to remove underarm stains from a white T-shirt:
Check the label: Make sure that your T-shirt is made of a fabric that is bleach-safe. Most white cotton T-shirts can tolerate bleach, but always check the care label for any specific instructions.
Dilute the bleach: Never use undiluted bleach on fabric. Create a bleach solution by mixing one part bleach with four parts water. For example, if you have 1 cup of bleach, mix it with 4 cups of water.
Pre-test: Before applying the bleach solution to the entire shirt, do a spot test on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to check for any adverse reactions.
Soak the shirt: Submerge the white T-shirt in the bleach solution, focusing on the underarm areas with stains. Make sure the shirt is fully saturated and the stains are in contact with the bleach solution.
Let it soak: Allow the shirt to soak for about 15-30 minutes. Avoid soaking it for too long, as prolonged exposure to bleach can weaken the fabric.
Rinse thoroughly: After soaking, remove the T-shirt from the bleach solution and rinse it thoroughly with cold water to stop the bleaching process.
Wash as usual: Wash the shirt separately from other clothes in the washing machine with detergent and cold water to remove any remaining bleach and stains.
Check the results: Once the shirt is washed, check to see if the underarm stains are completely removed. If they are still visible, you can repeat the process or try alternative stain removal methods.
Remember to always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area when using bleach. Additionally, if you're dealing with colored clothing or delicate fabrics, avoid using bleach, as it may cause discoloration or damage. In such cases, it's better to use alternative stain removal methods or seek professional advice.