Removing ink from clothes might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips and tricks, it’s entirely doable.
Over the years, I’ve dealt with countless ink stains, and I’ve compiled the best methods that have worked consistently for me.
Let’s begin!
1. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a highly effective solution for removing ink stains from clothes, especially for those stubborn ballpoint pen marks.
You should test the alcohol on a small, hidden area of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.
Lay the stained area on top of a clean white towel, then soak a cotton ball or cloth with rubbing alcohol and gently blot the ink stain.
Be sure to keep moving the towel underneath as it absorbs the ink to avoid re-staining the garment.
If the stain persists, apply a few drops of laundry detergent to the area and let it sit for a few minutes before washing the item in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
2. Dish Soap and Vinegar
Combine half a teaspoon of clear dish soap, a tablespoon of white vinegar, and a quart of warm water.
Soak the stained garment in this solution for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, rinse the garment with clean water and let it air dry.
If the ink stain remains, dab it with rubbing alcohol after testing it on an inconspicuous area for colorfastness.
Repeat the process if needed, and wash the garment as usual. This method is particularly useful for cotton fabrics and helps in lifting even stubborn stains.
3. Hairspray
Using hairspray to remove ink stains works because many hair sprays contain alcohol, which can dissolve ink.
Place a clean towel under the stained area to absorb excess ink.
Spray the ink stain thoroughly with hairspray, then use another clean cloth to blot the area until the ink starts to transfer onto the cloth.
Keep blotting and spraying until the stain is gone. After the stain is removed, wash the garment as usual. Choose a hairspray with a high alcohol content for the best results.
4. Milk
Milk is an unexpected yet effective remedy for ink stains, especially water-based ones. To use this method, fill a bowl with enough milk to completely submerge the stained part of the garment.
Let it soak for at least an hour. After soaking, gently scrub the stain with an old toothbrush, then rinse with warm water.
If the stain persists, apply detergent directly to the remaining ink and let it sit for another hour before washing the garment as usual.
5. Vinegar and Cornstarch
A combination of vinegar and cornstarch can effectively remove ink stains from clothing. First, wet the stain with vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, mix two tablespoons of vinegar with three tablespoons of cornstarch to form a thick paste. Apply the paste to the ink stain and work it into the fabric.
Allow the paste to dry completely before washing the garment in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
This method helps to break down the ink and lift it from the fabric fibers, making it easier to remove during washing.
6. Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer, with its high alcohol content, is a practical solution for removing ink stains. Apply a generous amount of hand sanitizer directly onto the ink stain and let it sit for about ten minutes.
The alcohol in the hand sanitizer helps to dissolve the ink.
After the waiting period, place the garment in the washing machine and wash it on the hottest water setting recommended for the fabric.
Check to ensure the stain is gone before drying the garment, as heat can set the stain permanently if any ink remains.
7. Salt
As soon as the ink stain occurs, cover it with a generous amount of salt. Using a damp paper towel, gently dab the stain, allowing the salt to absorb the ink.
Brush off the salt and repeat the process with fresh salt and a damp towel until the stain is no longer visible.
This method works best on fresh stains and can prevent them from setting into the fabric, making them easier to wash out later.
8. Nail Polish Remover
Nail polish remover can be very effective in removing ink stains due to its strong solvent properties. However, it should be used with caution to avoid damaging the fabric.
Test the remover on a hidden area first to ensure it does not cause discoloration. Apply a small amount of nail polish remover to the stain and blot with a clean cloth.
If the fabric withstands the remover without damage, continue blotting until the stain lifts.
