Have you ever experienced that sinking feeling when you realize there’s a pen ink stain on your favorite shirt? It’s a frustrating and disheartening situation, leaving us wondering if our beloved garment is ruined forever.
But fear not, because I’m here to share with you some of the best ink stain removal tips that will help you erase those pesky stains and restore your clothes to their former glory.
Whether it’s a minor mishap or a major ink spill, knowing how to remove ink pen from clothes is a valuable skill that can save your wardrobe.
I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different methods and products to find the most effective solution, and today, I’m sharing my knowledge with you.
In this post, I will share several simple and proven techniques for removing ink pen stains from various types of fabrics.
These methods ensure you have the best chance of success in eliminating those stubborn ink stains.
So, whether you’ve accidentally marked your clothes with an ink pen or your child’s artistic masterpiece went beyond the paper, read on to learn the best ink stain removal tips and restore your clothes to their pristine condition.
How to Get Ink Out of Different Types of Fabric
Different types of fabric require different approaches to remove ink stains.
Here are some methods to effectively remove ink pen stains from clothes:
Shirts
Apply the stain remover directly. Gently rub a small amount of the Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid directly onto the ink stain using your fingers or a clean cloth. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes to penetrate the fabric.
Jeans
Remove excess ink and then scrub with rubbing alcohol before washing.
Pants
Treat pants with solvents like rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer, followed by machine washing.
Canvas or Linen Clothing
Treat the stained area with rubbing alcohol, which helps pull the ink off the threads.
Chenille Clothing
Soak in a solution of dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water before rinsing and air drying.
Corduroy Clothing
Soak in a solution of dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water before rinsing and air drying.
Cotton Fabric
Spray with hairspray or soak in a solution of dish soap, white vinegar, and warm water before rinsing and air drying.
Polyester or Nylon Clothing
Treat with rubbing alcohol, then rinse with cold water and air dry.
Silk Clothing
Gently blot the stain with cold water and a cloth moistened with a solution of water and white vinegar.
Spandex and Lycra
Treat with rubbing alcohol, then rinse with cold water and air dry.
Suede Fabric
Use a suede eraser or brush. Gently rub a suede eraser or brush over the stain in one direction to lift the ink from the nap of the suede.
As a last resort, you can try using a commercial suede cleaner, following the product instructions carefully. The key is to be very gentle and avoid oversaturating the suede. Work from the outside of the stain inward to prevent spreading.
Vinyl
Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball to remove ink stains.
Velvet Clothing
- Use hairspray. Lightly mist the stain with hairspray. The alcohol in the hairspray can help break down the ink. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Soak in vinegar solution. Mix one part white vinegar with one part warm water. Soak a clean cloth in this solution and gently dab at the stained area.
- Use dish soap. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water until sudsy. Gently swish the velvet fabric in the soapy water.
Rinse the velvet thoroughly under cool running water to remove all the soap and loosened ink residue.
Wool Clothing
Soak in a solution of dish soap and white vinegar before rinsing and air drying.
Remember to test any cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the entire stain.
Always follow the care instructions on the garment’s label and be gentle when working on delicate fabrics.
Comparison of Ink Stain Removal Methods
Type of Fabric |
Recommended Method |
|---|---|
| Shirts | Tide Ultra Stain Release Liquid |
| Jeans | Rubbing Alcohol Scrub |
| Pants | Rubbing Alcohol or Hand Sanitizer Followed by Machine Washing |
| Canvas or Linen | Rubbing Alcohol |
| Chenille | Dish Soap, White Vinegar, and Warm Water Soak |
| Corduroy | Dish Soap, White Vinegar, and Warm Water Soak |
| Cotton | Hairspray or Dish Soap, White Vinegar, and Warm Water Soak |
| Polyester or Nylon | Rubbing Alcohol |
| Silk | Gentle Blotting with Water and White Vinegar Solution |
| Spandex and Lycra | Rubbing Alcohol and Cold Water Rinse |
| Suede | Suede Cleaner or Commercial suede cleaner |
| Velvet | Hairspray, Dish Soap, and White Vinegar Solution |
| Wool | Dish Soap and White Vinegar Soak |
Tips for Removing Different Types of Ink Stains
When it comes to tackling different types of ink stains, there are specific methods that can work wonders.
Whether you’re dealing with water-based ink stains, permanent ink stains, or felt-tip pen ink stains, I’ve got you covered with these effective ink pen stain removal hacks.
1. Water-based Ink Stains
Water-based ink stains, like those from washable markers, can be easily removed with a few simple steps:
- Lay the stained clothing on a clean, dry towel.
- Blot the stain with water to dampen it.
- Apply liquid laundry detergent directly to the stain.
- Wash the garment as usual.
2. Permanent Ink Stains
Permanent ink stains, such as those from permanent markers and highlighters, require a slightly different approach:
- Dilute the stain by applying rubbing alcohol to it.
- Let the rubbing alcohol sit for a few minutes.
- Apply liquid laundry detergent to the stain.
- Wash the garment according to the care instructions.
3. Felt-Tip Pen Ink Stains
Felt-tip pen ink stains can be stubborn, but with the right method, you can remove them effectively:
- Rinse the stain under cold water to flush out the ink.
- Soak the garment in a mixture of hot water, bleach-free laundry detergent, and ammonia.
- After soaking for a while, wash the garment as usual.
By following these ink stain cleaning hacks, you can say goodbye to pesky ink pen stains and keep your clothes looking fresh and clean.
Now let’s move on to some additional methods for removing ink stains.
Comparison of Different Ink Stain Removal Methods
Stain Type |
Method |
Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Water-based Ink Stains | Blot with water and wash with liquid laundry detergent | High |
| Permanent Ink Stains | Use rubbing alcohol and wash with liquid laundry detergent | Medium |
| Felt-Tip Pen Ink Stains | Rinse, soak with hot water, bleach-free detergent, and ammonia, then wash | Low |
Additional Methods for Removing Ink Stains
In addition to the methods mentioned earlier, other DIY methods can be used to remove ink stains from clothes.
These methods provide alternative options for effective ink stain removal. Let’s explore these additional techniques:
1. Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover can be effective for removing ink stains from clothes.
However, it’s important to use it with caution and test it on a hidden area of the fabric first.
Apply a small amount of nail polish remover to a clean cloth or cotton ball and gently dab at the ink stain.
Blot the stain until it lifts off the fabric.
Rinse the treated area with cold water and wash the garment as usual.
2. Hairspray
Hairspray with a high alcohol content can be effective in removing certain types of ink stains.
Spray a generous amount of hairspray onto the ink stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
Blot the stained area with a clean cloth or paper towel to lift the ink. Rinse the fabric with cold water and wash it according to the care instructions.
3. Milk
Milk can be used to remove ink stains when other methods may not be available.
Simply soak the stained area in a bowl of milk for several hours or overnight.
After soaking, rinse the fabric with cold water and launder it as usual. Milk can help break down the ink particles and lift them from the fabric.
4. Vinegar and Cornstarch Paste
A mixture of vinegar and cornstarch can create a paste that is effective in removing ink stains.
Combine equal parts vinegar and cornstarch in a bowl to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the ink stain, ensuring that it is completely covered.
Allow the paste to dry on the fabric for several hours, or overnight.
Once dry, gently scrape off the dried paste and brush away any residue.
Rinse the fabric with cold water and launder it as usual.
These additional methods offer alternative solutions for ink stain removal, providing you with diverse options to tackle different types of ink stains.
Remember to always test any method on a hidden area of the fabric first and follow the care instructions for the specific garment.
Final Thoughts
Removing ink pen stains from clothes can be a daunting task, but there are effective methods and products available to restore your garments. Whether you’re dealing with water-based, permanent, or felt-tip pen ink stains, there are specific steps you can follow to remove the stains successfully.
With the right combination of techniques and products, you can save your clothes from ink pen stains and keep them looking their best.
Don’t let a stain ruin your favorite garments—take action and restore them to their original condition. By arming yourself with knowledge and utilizing the best ink stain removal methods, you can conquer ink pen stains and enjoy stain-free clothes.
Helpful Reads
- https://tide.com/en-us/how-to-wash-clothes/how-to-remove-stains/ink-stains
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a24006/removing-ink-stains/
- https://www.thespruce.com/remove-ballpoint-permanent-water-based-ink-1900967
Belinda Moore is a biochemist working for a leading German company, where she contributes to innovative research and development projects. Her work in biochemistry reflects her passion for science and dedication to advancing the field.
Outside of her professional life, Belinda loves to cook and enjoys sharing her expertise in stain removal through her part-time blog. Combining her scientific knowledge with practical household tips, she offers readers effective solutions for everyday challenges.
