‘Out, damned spot!’ Lady Macbeth may have said it best. Though this overly ambitious, murder-enabling mastermind experiences challenges surrounding stains that are decidedly more dramatic than how to remove ink stains from clothes, the anguish of the unexpected stain has been felt by all! Here we look at how to remove ink stains from fabric of all sorts. We also break down best methods for stain removal based on the ink type, such as ballpoint, gel and more. If you have an ink stain, we have answers. Unlike Lady Macbeth’s, your stain is not a tragedy!
If the ink stain is fresh, blot it with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the ink as possible. Do not rub the stain as this will spread the ink or push it further into the fabric.
Yes! Different types of ink should be treated differently. For best results, here are tips on how to remove pen stains based on different ink types:
For all ink types, apply the solvent with a cotton ball or clean cloth in a blotting action, not a rubbing action. Let the treated stain sit for a few minutes. After you’ve treated the ink stain, rinse the area with cold water and then when you are able, launder the fabric as usual. (In the case of a commercial stain remover, follow the directions on the bottle.)
Note: We all know we should test whatever solvent we use in an inconspicuous area of fabric before applying it to the stain. However, we also know that in the case of ink stains time is of the essence, and sometimes this precautionary step is overlooked in service of our panic-driven impulse to take action.
Your pen ink stain may be on a cotton shirt or other easy-to-clean, machine-washable fabric. But in case your ink emergency involves other fabrics and materials, consider these methods:
Leather: To remove ink stains from leather or a similar porous surface, you may need to apply the solvent several times and allow it to soak in before blotting.
Wood: To remove ink stains from wood, choose dishwashing liquid applied with a soft cloth, or a bicarbonate of soda and water mixture, applied with fingers.
Delicate Fabrics: Some of the most effective home remedies for ink stain removal are too harsh for very delicate fabrics. If the ink stain is on a delicate fabric, such as silk or fine wool like cashmere, take it to a professional cleaner.
Just remember, don’t panic. Most ink stains can be removed using the methods above! Act quickly, be patient and be persistent. And if you don’t have any luck with ink stain removal, let that stain add character to a worn-in pair of jeans, or let that fancy shirt become a handy layer for wearing while gardening.
And now that you know the best tips for how to remove pen stains in the unfortunate (but hopefully infrequent) event of an ink stain, shop our wide range of quality customised pens with confidence! Tip: The pen style that is least likely to create an ink stain is a cap pen. Check out our popular Hughes Pen Collection for personalised cap pens you can count on.
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