DIY Underarm Guards: A Comprehensive Guide to Sweat-Proofing Your Clothes

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, can be a significant source of discomfort and embarrassment for many. One of the most common areas affected is the underarms, leading to unsightly sweat stains on clothing and a general feeling of unease. While there are various commercial solutions available, such as strong antiperspirants and specialized underarm pads, they can often be expensive, irritating to the skin, or simply not effective enough. A cost-effective and customizable alternative is to create your own DIY underarm guards. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure your clothes remain sweat-stain free.

Why Make Your Own Underarm Guards?

Before diving into the instructions, let’s explore the reasons why making your own underarm guards is a worthwhile endeavor:

* **Cost-Effective:** Commercial underarm pads can be quite expensive, especially if you use them regularly. DIY guards allow you to use readily available and inexpensive materials, saving you money in the long run.
* **Customizable:** You can tailor the size, shape, and absorbency of your guards to perfectly fit your needs and garment styles. This level of customization is difficult to achieve with store-bought options.
* **Skin-Friendly:** You have complete control over the materials used, allowing you to choose fabrics that are gentle on your skin and avoid potential irritants found in some commercial products.
* **Environmentally Friendly:** By reusing and repurposing materials, you can reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
* **Convenient:** Once you have the basic supplies, you can easily create new guards whenever you need them, without having to rely on store availability.

Materials You’ll Need

To make your own underarm guards, gather the following materials:

* **Absorbent Fabric:** This is the most crucial component of your guard. Choose a fabric that is highly absorbent and comfortable against the skin. Good options include:
* **Cotton Flannel:** Soft, absorbent, and readily available.
* **Cotton Terry Cloth:** Very absorbent, but can be a bit bulky.
* **Bamboo Fabric:** Naturally absorbent, breathable, and antibacterial.
* **Microfiber:** Highly absorbent and quick-drying.
* **Felt:** Inexpensive and provides good bulk for absorbing moisture.
* **Waterproof or Water-Resistant Fabric (Optional):** This layer helps prevent sweat from soaking through to your clothing. Options include:
* **PUL (Polyurethane Laminate):** Waterproof and breathable, often used in cloth diapering.
* **TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):** Similar to PUL, but more flexible.
* **Nylon Ripstop:** Water-resistant and durable.
* **Waterproof Pillow Protector Fabric:** Readily available and inexpensive.
* **Soft, Breathable Fabric for the Outer Layer (Optional):** This layer will be in direct contact with your clothing, so choose a fabric that is smooth and won’t cause friction. Options include:
* **Cotton Jersey:** Soft, stretchy, and comfortable.
* **Silk:** Luxurious and gentle on delicate fabrics.
* **Microfiber:** Smooth and lightweight.
* **Pattern Making Supplies:**
* **Paper (Pattern Paper, Butcher Paper, or Even Newspaper):** For creating your pattern.
* **Pencil or Pen:** For drawing your pattern.
* **Ruler or Measuring Tape:** For accurate measurements.
* **Scissors:** For cutting the fabric and pattern.
* **Pins:** For securing the fabric layers together.
* **Sewing Supplies:**
* **Sewing Machine (Recommended):** While you can hand-sew the guards, a sewing machine will make the process much faster and more durable.
* **Thread:** Choose a thread color that matches your fabric.
* **Needle:** Select a needle suitable for the type of fabric you are using.
* **Fasteners (Optional):** These will help keep the guards in place. Options include:
* **Snap Tape:** A strip of fabric with pre-attached snaps.
* **Hook and Loop Tape (Velcro):** Easy to use and adjustable.
* **Safety Pins:** A temporary and less secure option.
* **Adhesive Fabric Tape:** Double-sided tape specifically designed for fabric.
* **Iron and Ironing Board:** For pressing the fabric and seams.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own DIY underarm guards:

Step 1: Create a Pattern

1. **Measure Your Armhole:** Use a flexible measuring tape to measure the circumference of your armhole in the garment you intend to wear with the underarm guards. This measurement will help you determine the appropriate size for your pattern.
2. **Determine the Shape:** The shape of your underarm guard will depend on your personal preference and the style of clothing you wear. A simple oval or half-moon shape is a good starting point. You can also trace the underarm area of a well-fitting garment to get a more precise shape.
3. **Draw Your Pattern:** On your pattern paper, draw the desired shape based on your armhole measurement and preferred style. Consider making the guard slightly larger than the actual underarm area to provide ample coverage. A common size is about 4-6 inches long and 3-4 inches wide at its widest point. If you’re using a traced armhole pattern, add about half an inch around the edge for seam allowance and extra absorbency.
4. **Create a Test Pattern:** Before cutting into your fabric, create a test pattern using scrap fabric or paper to ensure the fit is correct. Hold the test pattern in place under your arm while wearing the garment to check for coverage and comfort. Adjust the pattern as needed.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

1. **Prepare the Fabric:** Wash and dry all fabrics before cutting to pre-shrink them and remove any finishes that may interfere with absorbency. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles.
2. **Layer the Fabrics:** If you are using multiple layers of fabric (e.g., absorbent layer, waterproof layer, outer layer), stack them together with the right sides facing out. Pin the layers together to prevent them from shifting during cutting.
3. **Pin the Pattern to the Fabric:** Place your pattern on top of the fabric layers and secure it with pins. Make sure the pattern is aligned with the grain of the fabric for optimal performance and durability.
4. **Cut the Fabric:** Carefully cut around the pattern using sharp scissors. Cut through all layers of fabric at once to ensure they are the same size and shape. Remove the pins and pattern.
5. **Repeat for Each Guard:** You will need to cut two identical sets of fabric pieces for each pair of underarm guards.

Step 3: Sew the Underarm Guards

1. **Assemble the Layers (if applicable):** If you are using multiple layers, begin by sewing the absorbent layer to the waterproof layer. Place the absorbent layer on top of the waterproof layer, right sides facing out, and pin them together around the edges. Sew around the perimeter, leaving a small opening (about 2-3 inches) for turning.
2. **Turn Right Side Out:** Carefully turn the guard right side out through the opening you left. Use a point turner or the blunt end of a pencil to gently push out the corners and create a smooth, even edge.
3. **Press the Seam:** Use an iron to press the seam flat, paying particular attention to the opening. Fold the raw edges of the opening inward and press them in place.
4. **Topstitch the Edge:** Topstitch around the entire perimeter of the guard, close to the edge. This will close the opening, reinforce the seam, and give the guard a professional finish.
5. **Optional: Add Binding:** For a more durable and polished finish, you can add binding to the edge of the guard. Cut strips of fabric (bias tape is ideal) and fold them around the edge of the guard, pinning them in place. Sew the binding to the guard using a zigzag stitch or a specialized binding foot.

Step 4: Add Fasteners (Optional)

Adding fasteners will help keep the underarm guards securely in place. Choose the fastener option that best suits your needs and preferences:

* **Snap Tape:** Cut two small strips of snap tape and sew one strip to the inside of the guard near the top edge, and the other strip to the corresponding area on your garment. Make sure the snaps align properly.
* **Hook and Loop Tape (Velcro):** Cut two small pieces of hook and loop tape. Sew the hook side to the inside of the guard and the loop side to the inside of your garment.
* **Safety Pins:** While not the most secure option, safety pins can be used to temporarily attach the guards to your garment. Be careful not to prick yourself or damage the fabric.
* **Adhesive Fabric Tape:** Apply double-sided adhesive fabric tape to the back of the guard and press it firmly against the inside of your garment. This is a temporary solution and may need to be reapplied throughout the day.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

1. **Wear the Guards:** Wear the underarm guards under your clothing for a day to test their effectiveness and comfort. Pay attention to how well they absorb sweat and whether they stay in place.
2. **Adjust as Needed:** If the guards are not absorbent enough, consider adding more layers of absorbent fabric or using a more absorbent material. If they are too bulky, try using thinner fabrics or reducing the size of the guard. If they are not staying in place, experiment with different fastener options or adjust the placement of the fasteners.

Tips for Success

* **Choose the Right Fabrics:** Selecting the appropriate fabrics is essential for the effectiveness and comfort of your underarm guards. Opt for natural, absorbent materials like cotton, bamboo, or microfiber. Avoid synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture and cause irritation.
* **Consider Layering:** Layering different types of fabric can enhance the performance of your guards. A combination of absorbent fabric and waterproof fabric will provide maximum protection against sweat stains.
* **Experiment with Shapes and Sizes:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and sizes to find the perfect fit for your needs. Consider the style of clothing you wear most often and adjust the pattern accordingly.
* **Use Quality Sewing Supplies:** Invest in good quality sewing supplies, such as sharp scissors, durable thread, and a reliable sewing machine. This will make the sewing process easier and ensure the longevity of your guards.
* **Wash and Care for Your Guards:** Wash your underarm guards regularly to maintain their absorbency and prevent the buildup of bacteria. Follow the care instructions for the fabrics you used. You can typically wash them in the washing machine on a gentle cycle and tumble dry on low heat. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can reduce the absorbency of the fabric.
* **Pre-Treat Stains:** If your underarm guards do develop stains, pre-treat them with a stain remover before washing. A mixture of baking soda and water can also be effective at removing stains.
* **Make Multiple Sets:** Once you have perfected your pattern and sewing technique, consider making multiple sets of underarm guards so you always have a clean pair on hand.
* **Consider the Color of Your Clothes:** When choosing the outer layer fabric, think about the color of the clothes you’ll be wearing the guards with. A light-colored fabric will be less noticeable under light-colored clothing.
* **Breathable Fabrics are Key:** Prioritize breathable fabrics to minimize sweating in the first place. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are excellent choices.

Troubleshooting

* **Guards are Too Bulky:** Use thinner fabrics or reduce the number of layers.
* **Guards Aren’t Absorbent Enough:** Add more layers of absorbent fabric or use a more absorbent material.
* **Guards Are Slipping:** Try different fastener options or adjust the placement of the fasteners. Consider using a non-slip fabric on the outer layer.
* **Guards Are Causing Irritation:** Switch to a softer, more breathable fabric. Ensure all seams are smooth and well-finished.
* **Guards Are Developing Odor:** Wash the guards more frequently and use an antibacterial detergent. Consider adding a layer of fabric treated with an antimicrobial finish.

Alternative Materials and Techniques

While the above instructions provide a solid foundation for creating your own underarm guards, there are several alternative materials and techniques you can explore:

* **Reusable Menstrual Pads:** Reusable menstrual pads, especially those made from bamboo or cotton, can be repurposed as underarm guards. Simply cut them to the desired shape and size and attach them to your clothing using fasteners or adhesive tape.
* **Cloth Diaper Inserts:** Cloth diaper inserts are designed to be highly absorbent and are available in a variety of materials, including microfiber, bamboo, and hemp. They can be easily cut and sewn into underarm guards.
* **Fleece:** While not as absorbent as some other materials, fleece is soft, comfortable, and can provide a barrier against sweat. It’s a good option for those with sensitive skin.
* **No-Sew Options:** If you don’t have a sewing machine or prefer not to sew, you can create no-sew underarm guards using fabric glue or fusible interfacing. Simply cut the fabric to the desired shape and size and glue or fuse the layers together.
* **Essential Oils:** Adding a few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, to your underarm guards can help control odor and provide a refreshing scent. Be sure to test the oil on a small area of skin first to check for any allergic reactions.

Conclusion

Making your own underarm guards is a simple and rewarding project that can save you money, reduce waste, and provide a customized solution to excessive sweating. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can create effective and comfortable underarm guards that will keep your clothes looking fresh and protect your confidence. So, gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and say goodbye to embarrassing sweat stains! Happy sewing!