We’ve all been there. More specifically, we’ve all dealt with probably all of these different stain types on our favorite white shirts. So with your white shirts’ renewal and full return to glory in mind, we’ve put together the ultimate rundown on how to get stains out of white shirts, including the most common types of stains and different supplies and strategies to remove each.
How to Remove Yellow Stains from White Shirts
After wearing a white shirt a few times, you may spot a yellow stain starting to appear in the armpit or around your collar. Most likely, the culprit is deodorant or lotions you may be using.
While we would never suggest skipping your deodorant for the day for the sake of keeping your shirt free of stains, the best way to combat yellow stains is by grabbing a few common household products.
Try these ideas to remove yellow stains:
The Quick Method: Hydrogen Peroxide, Dish Soap, and Baking Soda
- Combine one tablespoon each of hydrogen peroxide, dish soap, and baking soda in a bowl, and dust the mixture lightly over the stained area.
- Let this sit for at least an hour, brush it off, and wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
The Complex Method: Toothbrush and Toothpaste
- Grab a fresh toothbrush, and add whitening toothpaste.
- Scrub the yellow stain for about 30 seconds, and wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
Now go ahead and bask in the fresh feeling of a clean white shirt! We hate to break it to you, but these yellow stains may pop up again, so repeat the process as needed.
How To Remove Wine Stains From White Shirts
As you’re enjoying a bottle of wine with friends, nothing changes the mood quicker than when a drop, or even a full glass, accidentally ends up joining the party on your white shirt.
And if it’s red wine, panic ensues. Not to worry, there’s a few simple tricks that will rectify the situation, and they may be right on your kitchen table.
Try these ideas to remove wine stains:
The Quick Method: Salt
- Grab a few cups of salt. Depending on how large the stain is, sprinkle a generous pile over the stain.
- Let it sit for at least ten minutes, then remove the salt gently, and you’ll see the grains should have absorbed the moisture. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
The Complex Method: White Vinegar and Club Soda
- Make a solution of white vinegar and bubbly club soda.
- Blot the stain with a clean dishcloth or paper towel. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
Lastly, take a deep breath and finish your glass of wine. Carefully this time.
How To Remove Food Stains From White Shirts
Similar to sipping on a nice drink, enjoying a decadent meal has its downfalls too, especially if you forget to adjust the napkin on your lap or shirt. Depending on what you’re munching on, there are certain food items that are more threatening than others, like chocolate, berries or tomatoes. If the worst-case scenario comes true, check out a few creative ideas below to remove the crumb culprit.
Try these ideas to remove food stains:
The Quick Method: White Vinegar and Water
- Wipe away, or shake off any excess food.
- Rinse with cold water, and flush with white vinegar until the stain is gone. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
The Complex Method: Flour
- Perfect for oil or butter stains, grab a handful of flour (cornstarch or artificial sweetener works too) and sprinkle on both sides of the stain.
- Let the stain sit for at least 30 minutes and dust it off. Inspect the stain to see if it’s faded enough, then rinse it thoroughly with dish detergent and hot water. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
Once the food is out of sight and out of mind, celebrate with dessert. You’ve earned it.
How To Remove Blood From White Shirts
Prevalent to nose bleeds? This section is right up your alley. Unfortunately, blood can be one of the toughest stains to tackle since it’s made up of proteins, meaning it binds fast to fabrics. But when treated early, you can get it out swiftly.
Follow these steps to remove blood stains:
The Quick Method: Soap and Water
- Run the stain immediately with cold water. This might even do the trick!
- Grab dish soap, hand soap, or laundry detergent and rub it into the stain.
- Repeat as needed until the stain has disappeared. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
The Complex Method: Bleach and Detergent
- Find a basin to soak the white shirt in, and fill it up with hot water.
- Dissolve a splash of oxygen bleach into the hot water. Then, drop in the white shirt. Use protective gloves to rub out the stain.
- Let it sit overnight. Wash according to the clothing tag's instructions.
Next, relish in the fact you conquered one of the roughest stains out there. And now that you’re a pro at removing stains from white shirts, don’t be afraid to add them to your staple styles.
If you’re not afraid to put your stain removal knowledge to the test, here are our two most popular styles of white shirts in our collection:
Crowd Favorite Cutter & Buck White Shirts
Cutter & Buck Virtue Eco Pique Tile Print Recycled Mens Polo
A fun, subtle twist on a classic neutral, this patterned white men’s polo shirt is sleek enough for the board room, yet stretchy enough for the driving range. Featuring our ultra-lightweight cooling fabric, this is an excellent breathable choice for warmer climates and steamy summer days. And like many of our comfortable men’s polos, this is made with exceptionally durable material, meaning any accidental spills will not be an issue.
White Polo Features:
- Made with breathable 95% Recycled Polyester, 5% Spandex Pique
- Sustainably crafted with 15 recycled plastic bottles
- UPF 25+ UV Sun Protection for sunny days
- Moisture-wicking power to swipe sweat away
- Machine washable
Price: $60.00
Shop the Virtue Eco Pique Tile Print Recycled Mens Polo
Cutter & Buck Womens Windward Twill Long Sleeve Shirt
Relaxed yet refined, this cotton modal twill women’s white long-sleeve shirt is a must-have in any wardrobe. Roll up your sleeves for a backyard summer party, or layer it under a cozy crewneck sweater during the chilly winter months. Either way, the soft cotton twill fabric will give you the dependable comfort you’re looking for. If you end up loving this style in white, it comes in a few more versatile shades like many of our sophisticated women’s shirts.
White Shirt Features:
- Made with breathable 52% cotton, 48% modal fabric
- Soft cotton modal twill fabric
- Right chest pocket for convenient storage
- Side vents and a relaxed fit for a roomy, cool feel
- Machine washable
Price: $95.00
Shop the Women’s Windward Twill Long Sleeve Shirt
More Bright White Styles Available
We hope that this blog has offered a few helpful routes you can take when a stain threatens to ruin your favorite white shirt. Once again, act quickly, and always check your specific product’s instructions before you attempt to remove the stain.
And if you want to add a few more white styles into your current rotation, you can easily filter to exclusively show white colors when you head to our versatile men’s apparel or comfortable women’s apparel. Stay safe from stains!
