5 Essential Life Hacks To Prevent Those Annoying Deodorant Stains On Your Shirt
I can't be the only one who's experienced deodorant woes.
Before I found my own ride-or die-formula, getting dressed was a losing battle that too often resulted in T-shirt casualties and the occasional dress violently whipped across the bedroom, defeated with white deodorant stains I didn't have the time (or energy) to fuss over.
Half the time, you don't even realize your outfit has been soiled with deodorant stains until it's too late -- like in the car on your way to a job interview or at the restaurant midway through a first date.
Alas, bad things happen to good people, friend, but there are preventative measures to take into consideration.
Here are a few foolproof tips to ensure your ensemble stays stain-free, all day every day.
1. Choose Wisely
Schmidt's Naturals Charcoal + Magnesium Mineral-Enriched Deodorant Stick, $10, Schmidt's Naturals
This is a game of trial and error, but when you find the formula that works for you, buy that ish in bulk.
There are a ton of variations to choose from, depending on how much (or how little) you sweat naturally, how active you are, if you prefer organic, a solid, spray, or gel -- the options are practically endless.
I recently made the switch to all-natural deodorants, specifically Schmidt's charcoal and magnesium stick. It has a light, earthy scent, and it's made with magnesium, sodium bicarbonate, as well as plant-based powders that absorb sweat and naturally neutralize odor.
2. Be Aware Of What You Wear
Slipping into your favorite LBD seconds after applying deodorant never seems to end well.
If your clothes are a tighter fit, it's probably best to wait a minute or two for the formula to dry prior to getting dressed.
When given the option, Degree Deodorant suggests you wear “loose clothing made of natural fibers,” such as cotton, linen, and wool, so sweat can evaporate easily (translation: so your pits don't suffocate in the material).
3. Don't Overdo It
Product build-up is a problem, and it can lead to gross yellow stains that I can pretty much guarantee will clash with the rest of your outfit.
One swipe is enough, and you can always stash your go-to product in your tote for re-application throughout the day.
4. Reverse The Order
Whoever said you had to put deodorant on first is a total liar.
In fact, I usually put deodorant on last, and nine out of 10 times, the strategy works like a charm.
It's really just a matter of wiggling your way around the fabric or taking the easy route and planning your outfit around deodorant application.
Sleeveless dress? Easy. Tank top? Even better.
You might look ridiculous dancing around with your hand up your shirt, but you do what you have to, amirite?
5. Prepare For The Worst
Pampers Wipes, $12, Walmart
But hope for the best!
Sometimes, your best effort just isn't a match for stains that want to stick, but baby wipes get the job done on deep-rooted deodorant stains.
Pack these babies in your purse when you need to erase the evidence on-the-go, and you'll never have to sweat this problem again (see what I did there?).
