How to Remove Ink Stains from Clothes?

 
Gather Your Materials
 

• Isopropyl alcohol (at least 70% concentration)
• Liquid detergent (preferably enzymatic)
• Paper towels or a clean white cloth
• A soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush
• Cotton balls or a clean white sponge
• Gloves (to protect your hands)
• A basin or bucket for soaking

 
Test and Prepare the Fabric
 

• Examine the care label on your garment to ensure that the fabric is safe for chemical treatments.
• Test the chosen cleaning solution (such as isopropyl alcohol diluted with a little water) on a hidden area of the fabric to confirm it won’t cause discoloration or damage.
• Gently scrape off any excess dried ink with a dull knife or spoon to remove as much as possible before applying any cleaning solution.

 
Treat the Ink Stain Immediately
 

• Place a paper towel or clean cloth beneath the stained area to prevent the ink from spreading to other parts of the fabric.
• Dampen a cotton ball or sponge with isopropyl alcohol. If you do not have isopropyl alcohol, hairspray can serve as a substitute, but ensure you test its effect first.
• Gently blot the stained area with the alcohol-soaked item. Avoid rubbing harshly to prevent embedding the ink deeper into the fibers.
• Allow the alcohol to sit on the stain for 10-15 minutes for optimal ink loosening.

 
Work Through the Stain with Detergent
 

• After the alcohol treatment, apply a small amount of liquid detergent directly onto the stain.
• Gently work the detergent into the fabric using a soft-bristled brush or your fingers. This helps break down the ink pigments further.
• Let the detergent work on the ink for 5-10 minutes before proceeding.

 
Soak and Rinse the Fabric
 

• Fill a basin or bucket with cool water and a small amount of liquid detergent.
• Submerge the stained area in the solution and allow it to soak for at least 30 minutes. For stubborn stains, you may need to soak for up to an hour.
• After soaking, gently agitate the water with your hand to help the detergent work through the fabric fibers.
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water, ensuring you remove all traces of detergent and ink residue.

 
Repeat the Treatment if Necessary
 

• If the stain persists, repeat the alcohol treatment, detergent application, and soaking process.
• For very stubborn stains, consider leaving the detergent on the fabric for a longer period before soaking, or gently brushing the stain with a soft toothbrush once more.
• Always check between treatments to avoid over-treatment, which might harm delicate fabrics.

 
Dry and Inspect
 

• After rinsing, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing the fabric.
• Lay the clothing flat on clean towels or hang it to air-dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Once dry, inspect the treatment area; if a trace of the ink remains, you might consider another gentle treatment or consult a professional cleaner.

 
Precautions and Additional Tips
 

• Always work in a well-ventilated area when using chemicals like isopropyl alcohol or hairspray.
• For delicate fabrics such as silk or wool, consider professional cleaning services or consult the garment’s care instructions before applying any chemicals.
• Avoid using hot water as it may set the ink stain further into the fabric fibers.
• If the stain is old and deeply set, repeated gentle treatments are usually more effective than an aggressive approach.
• Wear gloves to protect your skin from chemical exposure and to prevent transferring oils from your hands to the fabric.