White deodorant marks on dark clothes: quick fixes

Quick fixes, from gentlest to strongest

Start with the first and only move down the list if the mark stays.

• Fabric on fabric: bunch up a clean part of the garment and rub it over the mark.
• Nylon tights or a pop sock: the smooth, fine knit picks up residue well, and it is easy to keep a pair in a drawer.
• A clean, dry make-up sponge: good for small streaks around a neckline.
• A slightly damp cloth: dab and lift rather than wiping. Let the area dry before you wear it, or it may show a water ring.
• A tumble dryer sheet: some people rub one lightly over the mark. Test it first, since it can leave a waxy film.

Fabrics that need a lighter touch

Plain cotton, polyester and linen are easy. Silk, chiffon and georgette can water-mark if dabbed with a wet cloth, so stick to the dry methods. Velvet shows rubbing as a change in the pile, so brush the mark lightly with a soft clothes brush instead, following the direction of the pile. Embroidered and embellished areas should not be rubbed at all; a dry cleaner can deal with any residue at the next clean.

Dressing so it does not happen

Most streaks happen in the few seconds when a kameez slides down past the underarms. A few habits stop them:

• Let deodorant dry fully before you dress. A clear gel or a formula sold as invisible may also help.
• Use a small amount; more product means more residue.
• Hold the sides of the kameez away from your body as you pull it on, so the fabric does not brush your underarms.
• A front opening or a side zip means you step into or button the kameez rather than dragging it over your head. Our article on kurta plackets and buttons shows the options.

When the marks will not rub off

If white marks stay after washing, or the underarms of a dark kameez feel stiff, the cause is a build-up of deodorant over many wears rather than a fresh streak. A pre-treatment and a warmer wash, as described in our washing guide for lawn and embroidered suits, usually helps. On white clothes the same build-up turns yellow, which is a different problem covered in our own article on yellow underarm stains.

If you are planning a dark outfit with an easier opening, describe it or send a photo through Send Your Design and we confirm the details in your written quote. You can start a design quote here.