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How to Steam Clean Underarm Odor From Fabric

Melissa Martinez

Underarm odor is an unpleasant smell that isn't always easy to get out. Even after running clothes through the washer, sometimes underarm smell can linger. Using a steam cleaner to remove underarm odor is one way to make sure the smell is removed.

Underarm odor doesn't have to ruin your shirt.

It is easy to do: You can even steam clean your clothes without an actual steam cleaner.

Using a Steamer

  1. Pour water into the water reservoir of your steam cleaner and turn it on. Allow it to warm up.

  2. Mix one part water with one part white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle and shake it well.

  3. Spray the armpit area of the shirt liberally with the vinegar and water mixture. Make sure the area is completely saturated.

  4. Steam the armpit area of the shirt using your steam cleaner. The smell of the vinegar will disappear, taking with it the odor from the armpit.

  5. Wash the shirt as you normally would. It will now be ready for use, without the smell.

Using Your Bathtub

  1. Mix one part water with one part distilled white vinegar in a spray bottle and shake vigorously to combine.

  2. Spray the armpit area of the shirt liberally with the spray bottle mixture. Make sure the entire affected area is soaked with the mixture.

  3. Turn on the water in your shower to the hottest setting possible. Allow the bathtub to fill at least halfway.

  4. Hang the shirt on the shower rod, and close the curtain or door. This will trap the steam from the hot water, allowing it to penetrate the shirt. Once the steam is gone, you can remove the shirt.

  5. Launder the shirt as you normally would.

  6. Tip

    If using a steam cleaner, you can also add a few tablespoon of the white distilled vinegar to the water reservoir.

    Warning

    If the smell from the armpits is particularly strong, it may take more than one steaming to completely remove the smell.

The Drip Cap

  • Underarm odor is an unpleasant smell that isn't always easy to get out.
  • Mix one part water with one part white distilled vinegar in a spray bottle and shake it well.
  • Spray the armpit area of the shirt liberally with the vinegar and water mixture.
  • Wash the shirt as you normally would.
  • Allow the bathtub to fill at least halfway.