How to Remove Highlighter Stains from Clothes?

 

Gather Supplies

 

• Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% concentration)
• Mild liquid detergent or dish soap
• Cotton balls or clean white cloths
• Paper towels
• An old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush
• A bowl for mixing solutions
• A clean, absorbent towel

 

Pre-Treatment: Safety and Testing

 

• Check the garment care label to ensure the fabric can handle spot treatment and mild cleaning agents.
• Perform a patch test on a hidden area of the garment using isopropyl alcohol or a diluted detergent solution to confirm there is no adverse reaction.
• Work in a well-ventilated area, as isopropyl alcohol fumes can be strong.

 

Loosen and Lift Dried Stains

 

• Place a clean, absorbent towel or paper towels under the stained area to prevent the stain from transferring.
• Dampen a cotton ball or a white cloth with isopropyl alcohol, then gently blot around the edges of the stain. Avoid rubbing hard as it can set the stain deeper into the fabric.
• If the stain begins to soften, continue to gently dab and blot. Patience is key as dried highlighter chemicals can be stubborn.

 

Work the Stain with a Cleaning Solution

 

• Mix a small amount of mild liquid detergent with warm water in a bowl.
• Dampen a soft-bristle brush or an old toothbrush in the solution.
• Gently work the solution into the stain by lightly scrubbing in a circular motion. This helps to break up the residue of the highlighter.
• Be sure to test a small area first to avoid any potential damage to the fabric.

 

Rinse and Assess the Fabric

 

• Once you feel that the stain is loosening, rinse the treated area thoroughly with cool water to remove both the detergent and dissolved highlighter ink.
• Blot the area with a clean towel to absorb excess water.
• Examine the area to determine if the stain is completely removed. If remnants persist, you may need to repeat the cleaning steps.

 

Post-Treatment Washing

 

• If the stain has significantly lightened or is gone, launder the garment as usual, following the instructions on its care label.
• Air-dry the garment first to ensure that the stain is completely removed; drying in a dryer may set any remaining ink.
• If the stain survives the pre-wash treatment, avoid machine drying and repeat the process until the stain is fully removed.

 

Additional Tips and Considerations

 

• Be patient: Dried highlighter stains may require several treatment sessions before completely disappearing.
• Avoid using bleach unless you are certain that the fabric is bleach-safe, as bleach may damage or discolor the clothing.
• Work gently: Aggressive scrubbing or harsh chemicals might degrade delicate fabrics.
• Consider professional cleaning: For expensive or delicate items, consult a professional cleaner if the stain persists.