How to Remove Ink Stains from Fabric
Accidents happen, and sometimes, those accidents leave us with unsightly ink stains on our clothes. Whether it’s a pen that exploded in your pocket or a child who got a little too creative with a marker, ink stains can be frustrating to deal with.
But don’t worry, removing ink stains from fabric is not as difficult as it may seem. In this post, we’ll discuss some effective methods for removing ink stains and give you some tips for preventing them in the future.
First, it’s important to know that the method you use to remove ink stains will depend on the type of fabric you are dealing with.
Different fabrics require different cleaning methods, so be sure to check the care label on your garment to determine the best cleaning method.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before attempting to remove the stain to make sure the cleaning method won’t damage the fabric.
Once you’ve determined the appropriate cleaning method, the first step in removing an ink stain is pre-treatment. Start by placing the stained fabric on a clean, white towel or rag to prevent the ink from spreading. Then, blot the stain with a clean, dry towel to remove any excess ink.
Now, let’s look at some effective methods for removing ink stains from fabric:
- Alcohol Method – This method involves applying rubbing alcohol to the stain, blotting with a clean towel, and repeating until the stain is gone. Rubbing alcohol is a powerful solvent that can break down the ink and make it easier to remove.
- Vinegar and Cornstarch Method – Mix vinegar and cornstarch to make a paste, apply to the stain, let sit for a few hours, and then brush off the paste. The acidity of the vinegar can help break down the ink, while the cornstarch helps to absorb it.
- Milk Method – Soak the stained fabric in milk for a few hours, and then wash as usual. The enzymes in milk can help break down the ink and make it easier to remove.
- Hairspray Method – Apply hairspray to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then blot with a clean towel. Hairspray contains alcohol, which can help break down the ink.
- Salt and Lemon Juice Method – Mix salt and lemon juice to make a paste, apply to the stain, let sit for a few hours, and then brush off the paste. The acidity of the lemon juice and the abrasiveness of the salt can help break down the ink and lift it from the fabric.
After you’ve successfully removed the ink stain, it’s important to wash the fabric in cold water and detergent to remove any remaining residue. Be sure to check the stain is completely gone before drying the fabric. If the stain is still there, repeat the cleaning method or try a different method.