On occasion, we'll find that the underarms of the laundered
shirts of specific clients are starting to deteriorate or have
deteriorated.
On close examination, we'll notice that the fabric is very
tender and will, literally, tear when stretched between the thumb
and forefinger.
What causes this to occur? One or a combination of:
- acids and chloride salts in perspiration
- metallic salts in antiperspirants
- ingredients found in certain medications.
The acids and chloride salts found in perspiration and the
metallic salts
contained in antiperspirants can degrade fabrics
(as well as discolor dyes). The extent of the damage depends
largely upon the physical chemistry of the individual, the type of
medications used, the conditions of wear, the length of time that
the perspiration was left untreated, the age of the garment, the
type of antiperspirant used, as well as the characteristics of the
fabric and the dye.
Unfortunately, damage caused by perspiration and antiperspirants
may not be visible prior to laundering. As the acids and chloride
salts found in perspiration and the metallic salts contained in
antiperspirants become catalyzed during the laundering process, the
weakened fibers will disintegrate. Accordingly, it is impossible to
know, prior to laundering whether a fabric will fail, since the
extent of the damage caused by the perspiration or antiperspirants may be undetectable at that time.
Why can one say that? Because laundering is an immersion process
and the entire shirt is subjected to identical conditions during
processing. Yet, the damage only occurs in a specific area of the
shirt - the underarm area.
Here's some photos that illustrate the problem.
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