How To Remove Yellow Stains From White Clothes
October 1, 2025

Do you have yellow marks spoiling your white clothes? No fear here's how you can easily get rid of them with home remedies and easy laundry hacks from Washmaxx in Houston.
Why White Clothes Turn Yellow (and How to Remove Yellow Stains)
We've all been there a pristine white shirt or dress transforming into a unpleasant yellow after a few washes. These yellow side stains are usually the result of sweating, deodorant, natural body oil, or a combination of all three - and sometimes you cannot blame your dirty clothes.
Over time, detergent residues and minerals are accumulated from water, making your white clothes look old and dingy.
But the good news? You don't require costly stain removers or harsh bleach. Fortunately, with the appropriate processes, you can remove yellow stains from your clothes without even leaving the house!
Best Natural Ways to Remove Yellow Stains from White Clothes

Here, we present tried-and-true home remedies that banish yellow stains yes, even on white clothes.
Baking Soda with Water Paste
Baking soda is a light, powerful cleaner. This removes yellow stains and does not harm the fabric.
How to use:
- Combine 4 tbsp of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water and make a stiff paste.
- Use it directly on the stained area (for underarms or collars).
- Let it sit for 30–60 minutes.
- Scrub lightly with a soft brush and launder as usual.
This method is ideal for white shirt or sweat stains and deodorant stains on dress.
Vinegar and Dish Soap Mix
Vinegar is a natural fabric softener and stain remover, while dish soap breaks the grease and dirt.
How to use:
- Combine 1 cup white vinegar, ½ cup dishwashing liquid, and 1 cup water.
- Soak the yellowish clothing for 1–2 hours.
- Rinse and wash normally.
This one is particularly effective on yellowed bed sheets or white pillowcases.
Hydrogen Peroxide Mix for Stubborn Yellow Stains
For tough, old stains, consider trying hydrogen peroxide a safer bleach alternative.
How to use:
- Mix 2 parts hydrogen peroxide with 1 part baking soda and 1 part dish soap.
- Spread this paste on the stained area.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and wash as usual.
This is the perfect way to get rid of underarm stains, collars, and stubborn yellow marks.
Lemon Juice and Sunlight
Lemon juice is a bleaching agent, and the sun only boosts its power.
How to use:
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice on the stain.
- Sprinkle some salt and gently rub it.
- Hang the clothes in the sunlight to dry.
- Wash after a few hours.
An extremely useful hack, especially in the Pakistani summers when you have tons and tons of sun!
Salt and Detergent Scrub
Great to keep for quick touch-ups when you haven't got much time.
How to use:
- Combine 1 tablespoon of salt with your regular detergent for stains.
- Scrub the yellowed area gently.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Perfect for rapid touch-up on clothes, such as cuffs or collars.
Stop Yellow Stains: Easy Tips

Therefore, it is very good to find ways to get rid of yellow stains, but it would be even better to prevent them in the first place!
Here are some brief fabric care pointers:
- Try wearing an undershirt to catch the sweat.
- Steer clear of deodorants with aluminum (they'll combine with sweat to cause yellow stains).
- Wash whites often don't let sweat or dirt accumulate.
- Let white clothes air-dry in sunlight to get a natural whitening effect.
- Always separate the whites during washing to avoid dullness caused by moisture and color transfer.
Fixes for Yellow Stains on Different Things
a) White Shirts
To get rid of yellow stains on white shirts, focus on the underarms and collar areas. A baking soda and hydrogen peroxide combo works best.
b) Bed Sheets and Pillowcases
Pre-soak in a mixture of vinegar and baking soda before machine washing. If the fabric allows, use hot water.
c) Pillows
Pillows absorb sweat and oils that cause yellowing over time. Remove the pillow cover and soak the pillow in warm water with vinegar and a little detergent. Dry in the sun.
FAQs
What is the reason for yellow stains on white clothes?
Yellow stains are caused by sweat, deodorant, body oils, or detergent residue.
Can I get rid of yellow stains with bleach?
Yes, but repeated use can damage fabric. Safer alternatives include vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.
Can I use baking soda on all clothes?
Yes, it's safe for most fabrics except delicate ones like wool and silk.
How can the yellow stain on a white shirt be cleaned faster?
Use a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash.
What can you do to get yellow stains out of pillows?
Soak in a vinegar, baking soda, and detergent solution. Then wash and dry in the sun.
Conclusion
Yellow stains on white clothes are disappointing, but with a few laundry hacks, you can make your whites look new again using natural cleaners. Whether it's your favourite white dress, office shirt, or bedsheet these easy and affordable tricks can help you remove yellow stains for good. No need for expensive products or fancy chemicals. Give them a try and see your whites shine again!
Want hassle-free stain removal? Washmaxx in Houston’s trusted laundry service, is here to help. From whites that need extra care to stubborn marks, our professional cleaning makes it easy to remove yellow stains and keep your clothes looking brand new.