How do you prevent the armpits of your whites shirts from becoming yellow? Also how do you keep whites bright after many washes? I'm not a big fan of bleach because it breaks down the fabric.
Antipersperent is actually what causes the yellowing. You could switch to just using a deoderant w/o an antipersperent in it.
And then hang your shirts out in the sun to dry, it's a natural way to bleach whites!
White vinager to get the yellow stains out.. also oxyclean is a good alternative to bleach. And there is nothing like a good presoak and hot hot hot water to get whites really white.
I had the same problem, especially with my husband's shirts. I also didn't like bleach, due to its lingering smell in clothing, and how harsh it is. Anyway, I did a little research, and discovered 1.) Charlie's Soap and 2.) to never use fabric softner. Charlie's Soap is available online, (just Google search for it). I use a combination of their powder soap, and there all purpose liquid cleaner as a laundry booster. It has really improved our whites--even my very picky mother commented on them! Also, apparently, fabric softner builds up on left-over deoderant remains, and makes the armpits super yellow. Gross, I know. I do use dryer sheets occasionally, but haven't had the same issue with them. I agree with Heather about using really hot water, and letting everything soak for awhile. Good luck!
I use a paste of Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking soda and let it sit for at least an hour- then apply to shirts and let sit another hour. AMAZING
