The Best Way to Clean Ink Stains on Carpet

Ink stains on carpet can be difficult to remove and should be tackled immediately. Test stain removal methods on inconspicuous areas of the carpet first to ensure they don't discolor or damage the carpet.

Washable Ink

For a heavy spill of washable ink, it is best to scrape up the residue and use a dry, white, absorbent towel to blot up as much ink as possible.

Rubbing Alcohol

Once the excess ink is removed, blotting the stain with rubbing alcohol or acetone-based nail polish remover on a clean, white cloth or towel will pick up some of the color. Continue blotting until no color is transferred to the cloth. The rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover should be put on a cloth, not directly on the carpet, as it can dissolve the latex glue holding the backing together, reports the website FabricLink.

Dish Soap

After using alcohol, if the stain is not completely removed, cleaning professionals recommend putting a mixture of 1 tbsp. of a gentle liquid dish soap and 1 tbsp. of white vinegar per 2 cups of warm water on the stain and blotting with a clean white cloth, according to Good Housekeeping.

Reapeat

Repeat blotting with the alcohol, then the dish soap solution, until the stain is completely removed. Then put cold water on the area and blot until completely dry.

Carpet Cleaner

If the stain won't come out, a professional carpet cleaner may be able to help.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Stain Buster--Ink, Ballpoint
• B and D Carpet Cleaner: Home Spotting Guide
• Fabric Link: Stain Guide for Carpets: Ink - Ballpoint