How to remove ink stains from clothes?

Discovering an uncapped sketch pen staining the sleeve of your favourite shirt can feel like a nightmare. Traditional washing and drying methods would prove ineffective against such stubborn ink blots, leaving you in need of alternative solutions. Here are some effective techniques to remove ink stains from your clothes at home.

Note: Different types of ink stains require specific treatments. Ensure to use the method that suits the type of ink best. It is recommended to test any ink-removal method on a small patch of the garment first to avoid damaging the entire fabric.

See also: How to dry clean clothes at home?

 

Ballpoint pen ink stain: How to remove it?

Things needed:

• Rubbing alcohol
• Paper tissue
• Dropper
• Bowl
• Laundry detergent

Removing a freshly smeared ballpoint ink stain from a cloth is a straightforward process. Here’s what you can do:

• Place tissue paper beneath the stained area to prevent the ink from spreading.
• Using a dropper, apply rubbing alcohol directly onto the stained spot.
• For larger stains, let the cloth soak in alcohol for about 20 minutes but be sure to monitor it closely.
• Gently blot the stain with tissue paper from underneath to absorb the ink onto the tissue.
• Wash the area thoroughly with a
• Rinse the cloth and allow it to dry.
• If any faint ink stains remain, you can repeat the steps.

This method works best on fresh ink as it is easier to remove the stain before the fabric absorbs it completely.

 

 

Permanent marker ink stain: How to remove it?

As the name suggests, the ink of a permanent marker is made such that it stays forever. Thus, it may be difficult to remove them using home remedies and may require a professional laundry service. But before you end up spending all that money, try the process of removing ballpoint ink.

 

Felt tip pen ink stain: How to remove it?

Felt tip inks are more stubborn than normal ballpoint ink and may take more time in getting removed. However, they are not impossible to remove from your clothing.

 

 

Things required:

• Ammonia: 1 cap
• Hot water
• Room temperature water
• Laundry detergent

Process to remove

• Wash the inked spot with room-temperature water to remove as much ink as possible.
• Create a mixture of hot water, ammonia and detergent.
• Apply the mixture to the inked spot and let it soak for half an hour.
• For larger spots, use a bowl to soak the inked area.
• If the ink stain is dark, consider soaking it for a couple of hours or overnight.
• Optionally, add another capful of ammonia to strengthen the mixture.
• Wash the area with laundry detergent.
• Rinse the cloth thoroughly.
• Allow the cloth to dry completely.

 

 

Ink stain on leather garments/bags: How to remove it?

 

To remove ink stains from leather garments or bags, dab rubbing alcohol on the stain and wipe it. You may also use leather protection cream to remove the stains.

 

FAQs

Is it possible to remove ink from your cloth once it’s washed and dried?

Yes, you may remove ink stains using rubbing alcohol. If you cannot remove the stain, try stronger stain-removing solutions available in the market.

Does the usage of rubbing alcohol damage the clothes?

While using rubbing alcohol in small portions may not damage the clothes, using it regularly may tear the garment.

In addition to rubbing alcohol, what are the other things that can be used to remove ink stains?

You may use alcohol-based products, such as hand sanitisers. Additionally, options like toothpaste and vinegar could be used to remove lighter ink stains.

What if the ink stain remains even after trying the various methods?

If the DIY methods do not work, give your clothing to a professional cleaner.

Can a hairspray be used to remove ink stains?

Yes, an alcohol- or ammonia-based hairspray can be used to remove ink stains.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com