If you’ve ever pulled a favourite white shirt from the wash only to find those stubborn yellow underarm stains still clinging on, you’re not alone.
For many of us, especially those who’ve spent decades perfecting the art of laundry, these unsightly marks can feel like a losing battle.
The temptation to simply toss out the offending garment and buy new is real—but what if there was a simple, affordable solution hiding in your pantry?
At YourLifeChoices, we know that every dollar counts, and we love a good home hack—especially one that saves money and keeps your clothes looking their best.
That’s why we’re excited to share a professional cleaner’s secret weapon for tackling one of laundry’s most persistent problems, all for less than the price of a cup of coffee.
The underarm stain struggle: Why does it happen?
Before we get to the solution, let’s quickly talk about why these stains appear in the first place. Underarm stains are usually caused by a combination of sweat and the aluminium compounds found in many antiperspirants.
Over time, this mixture reacts with the fabric, especially on lighter-coloured clothing, leaving behind those telltale yellow marks. Unfortunately, regular washing often isn’t enough to shift them.
Enter the $4.30 miracle: Sophie Webb’s diy cleaning paste
Professional cleaner and social media sensation Sophie Webb has built a following of nearly a million people by sharing practical, budget-friendly cleaning tips. Her go-to solution for armpit stains? A homemade cleaning paste that’s as effective as it is affordable.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of bicarb soda (about $2.45 at major supermarkets)
- 1/4 cup of dish soap (around $1.40)
- 3 tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide (the hero ingredient, $4.30 at Woolies or Coles)
- 3 tablespoons of warm water
Simply mix these ingredients together to form a thick paste. Using a soft brush or an old toothbrush, apply the paste generously to the stained area.
Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wash the garment in cold water as usual. Sophie swears by this method, saying, ‘The combination of bicarb soda and hydrogen peroxide breaks down the stains effectively.’
Why does this work? The science behind the solution
Bicarb soda is a gentle abrasive and natural deodoriser, while hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleach that helps lift stains without damaging most fabrics.
Dish soap cuts through oily residues left by sweat and deodorant. Together, they form a powerful trio that’s tough on stains but gentle on your clothes.
More than just laundry: a versatile cleaning paste
Sophie’s cleaning paste isn’t just for shirts. She’s used it to tackle a range of household cleaning challenges, including:
- Rust stains on stainless steel
- Mould and grime on grout
- Soap scum and limescale on bathroom surfaces
- Refreshing tired-looking toilets
It’s a true all-rounder, making it a handy addition to your cleaning arsenal.
A few words of caution
As with any cleaning product, even homemade ones, it’s wise to test the paste on a small, hidden area first—especially if you’re using it on coloured fabrics or delicate surfaces. Hydrogen peroxide can have a mild bleaching effect, so better safe than sorry.
What do the experts and everyday Australians say?
Sophie’s followers have called her DIY paste a ‘game changer’, praising its power and versatility. Many say it’s less harsh than commercial cleaners and doesn’t leave them feeling dizzy from strong chemical fumes. And with ingredients you probably already have at home, it’s a win for your wallet and the environment.
Other tips for keeping whites bright
- Wash whites separately to prevent colour transfer.
- Avoid overloading your washing machine—clothes need space to move.
- Dry whites in the sun when possible; sunlight is a natural whitener.
- Switch to aluminium-free deodorants to help prevent future stains.
Have you tried this hack?
We’d love to hear from you! Have you battled with underarm stains or found a laundry hack that works wonders? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below. Your advice could help another reader rescue their favourite shirt!
Looking for more clever cleaning tips?
Stay tuned to YourLifeChoices for more practical advice, money-saving ideas, and community wisdom. And if you have a cleaning conundrum you’d like us to tackle, let us know—we’re always on the lookout for the next great home hack.
Also read: Kmart’s $35 buy is changing the way shoppers do laundry
