How to Get Dried Ink Out of Clothes: Different Ways

Ink stains on clothes can be one of the most frustrating types of stains to deal with, especially when the ink has dried. However, there are several effective methods to remove dried ink stains from your garments.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore different ways to tackle ink stains using common household items, specialized stain removers, and some professional tips. Whether it’s a ballpoint pen or permanent marker, we’ve got you covered.

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Why Ink Stains Are Hard to Remove

Ink is designed to stick to paper, and when it gets on fabric, it can penetrate the fibers, making it difficult to remove. Dried ink, in particular, becomes more stubborn because it has had time to set into the fabric. The type of ink, the fabric, and how long the stain has been present all play a role in how easily the stain can be lifted.

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General Tips for Treating Ink Stains

Before diving into specific methods, here are some general guidelines to follow when treating ink stains:

• Act Fast: The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Fresh ink stains are easier to remove than dried ones.
• Test on a Small Area: Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden part of the fabric first to ensure it won’t damage the material.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Blot the stain gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Rubbing can push the ink deeper into the fabric fibers.
• Cold Water: Use cold water when treating ink stains. Hot water can cause the stain to set further into the fabric.

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Method 1: Using Rubbing Alcohol

Why It Works

Rubbing alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol, is one of the most effective home remedies for ink stain removal. Alcohol breaks down the oils and pigments in the ink, making it easier to lift from the fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Place the Garment on a Clean Towel: Lay your garment flat on top of a clean towel. The towel will absorb the ink as it lifts from the fabric.
2. Apply Rubbing Alcohol: Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol directly onto the ink stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blot the Stain: Using a clean cloth or cotton ball, blot the stain gently. You should see the ink transferring onto the cloth.
4. Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the treated area with cold water to remove the alcohol and ink.
5. Repeat if Necessary: If the stain persists, repeat the process until the ink is fully removed.
6. Launder as Usual: Once the stain is gone, wash the garment in cold water as usual.

Best for

• Ballpoint pen ink
• Gel pen ink
• Washable fabrics like cotton and polyester

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Method 2: Using Hairspray

Why It Works

Hairspray contains alcohol, which helps break down the ink stain. This method works best with older formulations of hairspray, as modern versions often have less alcohol content.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Spray the Stain: Generously spray the hairspray directly onto the dried ink stain.
2. Let It Sit: Allow the hairspray to sit on the stain for a few minutes. The alcohol will begin breaking down the ink.
3. Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth to blot the area, absorbing the ink as it lifts from the fabric.
4. Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the garment with cold water to remove the remaining hairspray and ink.
5. Wash Normally: Launder the garment as usual once the stain is removed.

Best for

• Ballpoint pen ink
• Permanent marker stains
• Synthetic fabrics like polyester

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Method 3: Using Dish Soap and Vinegar

Why It Works

Dish soap and white vinegar can work wonders on ink stains, especially when combined. Dish soap breaks down the grease and ink pigments, while vinegar acts as a natural stain remover.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Create a Solution: Mix one tablespoon of dish soap with one tablespoon of white vinegar and two cups of cold water.
2. Apply the Solution: Use a clean cloth to dab the solution onto the ink stain.
3. Blot the Stain: Gently blot the area, working from the outside in to prevent the stain from spreading.
4. Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the treated area with cold water and repeat if necessary.
5. Wash as Usual: Once the stain is gone, wash the garment in cold water.

Best for

• Water-based ink
• Fabrics like cotton, linen, and synthetics

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Method 4: Using Milk

Why It Works

Milk is a surprisingly effective method for removing ink stains, especially from delicate fabrics. The fat and protein in milk help to break down the ink.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Soak the Garment: Submerge the stained area of your garment in a bowl of milk. Let it soak for several hours or overnight.
2. Blot the Stain: After soaking, blot the stain with a clean cloth to absorb any remaining ink.
3. Rinse with Cold Water: Rinse the fabric with cold water to remove the milk and ink.
4. Launder as Usual: Wash the garment as you normally would.

Best for

• Delicate fabrics like silk or wool
• Light ink stains

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Method 5: Using Hand Sanitizer

Why It Works

Hand sanitizer contains a high concentration of alcohol, making it an effective ink stain remover, especially when you’re on the go.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Apply Hand Sanitizer: Squeeze a small amount of hand sanitizer onto the ink stain.
2. Let It Sit: Allow the sanitizer to sit on the stain for 5-10 minutes.
3. Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth to blot the ink, which should begin to lift from the fabric.
4. Rinse and Wash: Rinse the area with cold water, then launder the garment as usual.

Best for

• Ballpoint pen ink
• Quick fixes when you’re away from home

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Method 6: Using Baking Soda Paste

Why It Works

Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can lift ink stains by gently scrubbing them away without damaging the fabric.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Create a Paste: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with a few drops of water to create a thick paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste over the ink stain, making sure it covers the area completely.
3. Let It Sit: Allow the paste to sit on the stain for 10-15 minutes.
4. Scrub Gently: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub the paste into the fabric.
5. Rinse and Wash: Rinse the area with cold water and then wash the garment.

Best for

• Light ink stains
• Delicate fabrics

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Method 7: Using Commercial Stain Removers

Why It Works

If home remedies aren’t cutting it, commercial stain removers designed for ink can be your best bet. Products like OxiClean, Shout, and Zout are formulated to tackle tough stains, including ink.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Apply the Stain Remover: Follow the instructions on the stain remover’s packaging. Typically, you’ll apply the product directly to the stain.
2. Let It Sit: Allow the remover to sit on the stain for the recommended time.
3. Blot the Stain: Gently blot the area to lift the ink.
4. Rinse and Wash: Rinse the treated area with cold water, then launder the garment as usual.

Best for

• Stubborn ink stains
• Multiple types of ink

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Dealing with Permanent Marker Ink

Permanent marker stains can be more challenging to remove because the ink is designed to be long-lasting. However, rubbing alcohol, acetone (nail polish remover), or even toothpaste can be effective in lifting these tough stains.

Step-by-Step Guide for Permanent Marker Stains

1. Apply Acetone or Alcohol: Dab a small amount of acetone or rubbing alcohol onto the stain.
2. Blot the Stain: Use a clean cloth to blot the ink, lifting it from the fabric.
3. Rinse and Repeat: Rinse with cold water and repeat the process if necessary.
4. Launder: Wash the garment in cold water after the stain is removed.

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Professional Dry Cleaning for Stubborn Stains

If the ink stain persists after trying several methods, it may be time to take the garment to a professional dry cleaner. Dry cleaners have access to specialized solvents and equipment that can remove stubborn stains without damaging your clothing.

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Conclusion

Removing dried ink from clothes can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and patience, it’s entirely possible to restore your garments to their original state. Whether you choose rubbing alcohol, dish soap, vinegar, or a commercial stain remover, the key is to act quickly and carefully.

Always test cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first, and remember to blot rather than rub the stain to prevent it from spreading.

By following the methods outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle even the most stubborn ink stains.