How to Get Ink Out of Clothes

Removing ink stains from clothes can be a frustrating challenge. But understanding how to do it right can help to preserve your favorite clothing items. Each type of ink — water-based or oil-based — requires a specific approach to treatment. The fabric type plays a role in the stain-removal process, too. When you need help resolving a tough ink stain, follow the steps below.

Understanding Ink Stains

Ink stains can seem tough, but they're often easier to cure than you'd think. The first step is to understand what type of ink caused the stain.

• Water-based inks, found in washable markers and fountain pens, dissolve in water and are easier to remove.
• Oil-based inks, used in ballpoint pens and permanent markers, repel water and require stronger solvents.

The fabric type also affects stain removal. Natural fibers like cotton absorb ink quickly, making stains harder to remove. Synthetic fibers like polyester resist ink penetration but can still hold stains if not treated promptly. Delicate fabrics like silk or wool require extra care to avoid damage.

Regardless of the type of stain, there are a few common mistakes that make successfully removing the stain nearly impossible:

• Don't rub! Avoid rubbing the stain vigorously because doing so can spread the ink.
• Avoid hot water! Using hot water or heat before the stain is gone can set it permanently. (This is a good time to mention that you shouldn't put the item into the dryer until you're 100% sure you removed the stain.)
• Use the right cleaner! Using the wrong cleaner puts delicate fabrics at risk.

Methods for Removing Ink Stains

Step 1. Blot the Stain

• Use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to gently blot the ink stain. This helps absorb the ink without spreading it further into the fabric.
• Avoid rubbing! You don't want to spread the ink across the fibers.

Step 2. Identify the Type of Ink and Pretreat the Stain

First, determine if the ink is water-based or oil-based. Once you've done that, you can fine-tune your approach to cleaning the stain:

• For water-based ink: Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or dish soap directly to the stain. Work it gently into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush.
• For oil-based ink: Place a dry, white cloth behind the stain. This will help catch any ink that soaks through during treatment. To pre-treat, dab the stain with isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or hand sanitizer using a cotton ball or clean cloth. Remember: Dab gently. You don't want to risk spreading it.

Step 3. Blot Again

• Lift the ink off the fabric. After applying the pre-treatment, blot the area with a clean cloth to lift the ink and the cleaning agent from the fabric.
• Repeat as necessary. You want to get to a point where you no longer see ink transferring to the cloth.

Step 4. Rinse With Cold Water

• Rinse the stained area under cold running water, holding the fabric with the stain facing down. This helps flush out both the ink and the cleaning solution.

Step 5. Apply Stain Remover if Necessary

• For stubborn stains, apply a commercial stain remover according to the product instructions. (Carbona's Stain Devils #3 is a good one to try.)
• Follow the manufacturer's directions. It's important to let the application sit for the recommended time to allow the solution to break down the remaining ink.

Step 6. Wash and Line-Dry the Garment

Follow the laundering instructions for your garment, considering the following tips for denim and cotton garments:

• For Jeans: Use the hottest water that's safe for the fabric. Wash as normal with a regular laundry detergent and then line dry.
• For Cotton: Use cold or warm water, depending on the care label instructions. Be cautious with hot water as it may set a permanent ink stain if not completely removed. We recommend line-drying these items, too, even if you normally throw them in the dryer. Why? You don't want to put a stained garment into the dryer. By letting the stain air dry, you'll be able to see whether the treatments were effective. If they were, dampen the garment, and throw it into the dryer to remove any stiffness and wrinkles.
• If the stains persist after washing, repeat the stain treatment.

Precautions and Prevention

Accidents happen, but prevention is key! Remember to keep pens away from your clothing by using designated pen holders or pockets, and always cap the end of your pen if possible. Avoid carrying pens in your shirt pockets or the back pockets of your jeans. If you're prone to ink spots (maybe because of your job), you can opt to wear fabrics with tighter weaves, such as polyester, which are less likely to absorb ink. Also, darker colors or patterned fabrics can help camouflage potential stains.

Alternate Cleaning Methods to Try

We're committed to the method outlined above, but there are plenty of trusted methods for removing ink from clothes. Regardless of what you test, we still recommend avoiding hot water or the dryer unless you're sure the stain is out. A few ideas that can help treat fresh ink stains include:

• Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix white vinegar and baking soda to create a paste, and apply to the stain. Let it sit before washing.
• Milk: Soak the stained area in milk (in a cup or bowl) for several hours. Then rinse and launder as usual.

FAQ

Can I use hot water to remove ink stains?

Hot water can set the stain if the stain is not fully removed; always start with cold water. Just as you should avoid hot water, remember to avoid heat from the dryer. Heat will also set the stain and make it permanent.

What should I do if the stain is old or set in?

Pre-treat with a stain remover, then repeat the cleaning process as needed. Avoid putting the garment in the dryer until you're sure the stain is removed.