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Stain Removal & First Aid

Shirt Collar/Cuff Stains: Apply 'This' Before Washing!

Published: December 16, 2025
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๐Ÿ‘” The Office Worker''s Destiny: The Secret to Removing Yellowed, Set-in Collar and Cuff Stains

Daily wear dress shirts are prone to developing complex, set-in stains where sebum and sweat combine on the collar and cuffs (often called "ring around the collar"). These stains are difficult to remove with standard washing and, if left untreated, will yellow and ruin the shirt. I''ll share the secret to restoring a pristine white shirt with just 5 minutes of pre-treatment before machine washing.

๐Ÿ”‘ Key Ingredients for Collar/Cuff Stain Removal: Alkaline Detergent and Grease Dissolver

Collar stains are a mix of oil (sebum) and protein (sweat), so you need components that can break down both.

๐Ÿงด The 5-Minute Pre-Wash Emergency Routine

1. Supplies:

  • Dish Soap (Excellent at dissolving grease/oil)
  • Baking Soda (Alkaline, aids in protein breakdown)
  • An old toothbrush

2. Apply ''Dish Soap'' Directly to the Stain:

  • Slightly dampen the inside of the shirt collar and cuffs with lukewarm water (not hot) to open up the fibers.
  • Spread a thin layer of neutral pH dish soap over the stained area. The dish soap works to dissolve the sebum (oil).

3. Gently Scrub with ''Baking Soda'' (Mild Friction):

  • Sprinkle a bit of baking soda over the area where the soap was applied.
  • Using an old, soft toothbrush, very gently scrub or pat the stained area along the grain of the fabric. The baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, and its alkaline nature starts breaking down the protein stains.

4. Let Sit for 5 Minutes, Then Wash:

  • Allow the mixture of baking soda and soap to sit and work for about 5 minutes.
  • Do not rinse separately. Simply place the shirt in the washing machine with your other laundry and wash as usual. A warm water (30โ€“40ยฐC) setting is best for this wash.

Tip: Prevention is the Best Cure: To prevent collar stains from forming in the first place, spritz a powder-type deodorant or a collar-guard spray on the inside of the collar before wearing. This absorbs oil and significantly reduces the buildup of grime.