Perspiration stains aren’t just unsightly—they’re chemically aggressive. The acid, salt, and metallic content in sweat and antiperspirants can weaken fabrics, discolor dyes, and even cause structural breakdown. With summer heat rising and performance fabrics more common, it’s essential to have a spotter-smart strategy.

What to Watch for at Intake

• Yellowing underarms on light colors

• Orange or rust-like stains on polos with sulfur dyes

• Shiny or weakened fabric in silk, wool, or acetate

• Odor that signals protein buildup—even when stains are invisible

Tip: Always document suspected sweat-related damage before cleaning, especially in eveningwear or delicate natural fibers.

Treatment Options: What Works & What to Avoid

Use: Enzyme Digesters (Best for Delicates)

• Breaks down protein without dye risk

• Effective with dwell time

• Ideal for silk, wool, and gowns with mixed materials

Use Caution: Protein Spotters with Alkalis

• Ammonia/sodium hydroxide-based formulas work fast

• But may strip color and break yarns

• Avoid on silks and aged wool—especially if using bleach

Avoid: Solvent-Only Cleaning

• Solvents don’t remove perspiration salts

• Heat from pressing can activate stains not visible at intake

Wet Cleaning = Your Secret Weapon

When the fabric allows, wet cleaning is the most effective method. Perspiration is water-soluble. Just confirm colorfastness and fiber resilience before processing.

What to Say to Customers

Train your team to use non-blaming, supportive language:

• “We’re seeing some perspiration buildup here. We’ll treat it carefully, but let’s take a look together.”

• “These areas are common spots for yellowing or damage over time. Our goal is to clean it without putting stress on the fabric.”

Offer a 'Summer Refresh Treatment'

Position a specialty service to target odor, yellowing, and buildup in warm-weather garments. Include enzyme soaking, reshaping, and gentle pressing. Customers feel cared for—and you avoid surprises at pickup.

Final Thought: Sweat Doesn’t Show Until It Does

Perspiration damage may only surface after heat or moisture are applied. By proactively inspecting, treating with care, and setting clear expectations, you protect garments and your shop’s reputation.