How To Remove Ink Stain From Washable Fabrics

January 25, 2023

Ink stains can be a real headache to remove from clothes, but don't let them ruin your favorite garments. With this easy solution, you can effectively eliminate stubborn ink stains and restore your clothes to their former beauty. Keep reading to learn the secret to removing stubborn ink stains from clothes and keep them looking like new.

COLOR

Various (depending on color)

APPEARANCE

These stains appear as a discoloration of the fabric that can come in various colors depending on the type of ink. They can be slightly wet or dry to the touch and may have a slight chemical smell. These stains are often caused by exposure to ink from pens, markers, or printers.

WATER TEMP

Cold (65° to 75°F)

RATIONALE FOR WATER TEMP

Cold water helps to prevent the ink from bleeding and causing further damage to the fabric.

The Science Behind Ink Stains

Ink stains clothes because it is a type of dye. Dyes are made up of small particles called molecules that can stick to the fibers in fabric. When ink comes into contact with fabric, the molecules in the ink stick to the fibers in the fabric and make a permanent stain. The color of the ink is created by the specific combination of molecules in the ink, which is why different colored inks can create different colored stains. The strength of the ink stain also depends on the type of fabric it is on and how long the ink is left on the fabric before being washed.

ink

What You'll Need To Get Rid Of Ink Stains

  • Rubbing alcohol or hair spray
  • Laundry detergent or dish soap
  • Hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar
  • Stain remover or laundry booster (such as OxiClean or Zout)

Step By Step Process To Remove Ink Stains

  1. Blot up as much of the ink as possible with a clean, white cloth or paper towel.
  2. Apply rubbing alcohol or hair spray to the stain and gently rub it in with a clean cloth. Let it sit for a few minutes.
  3. Rinse the area with cold water, being careful not to spread the stain.
  4. Apply a small amount of laundry detergent or dish soap to the stain, and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes.
  5. Rinse the area with cold water again, and then launder the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water setting appropriate for the fabric type.
  6. If the stain is still present, repeat steps 1-5 or apply hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar to the stain, and then launder the garment in the washing machine on the hottest water setting appropriate for the fabric type.
  7. Check the stain before drying the garment, if the stain is still visible, use a stain remover or laundry booster (such as OxiClean or Zout) and launder again.
Note: The water temperature should be according to the fabric type, use warm water for cottons and linens, cold water for silk and wool, and hot water for polyester and nylon. Always read and follow the care label instructions on the garment, and be cautious when using hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar, as they may cause discoloration on some fabrics.

In Brief

Ink stains are caused by the molecules in the ink sticking to the fibers in fabric. To remove ink stains from washable fabrics, use rubbing alcohol or hair spray, laundry detergent or dish soap, hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar, and stain remover or laundry booster. Rinse and launder the garment on the appropriate water temperature for the fabric type. Repeat the process if the stain is still visible. Always check the care label and test the solution on an inconspicuous area before using it.

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