How to Erase Pen Off of Sofas

Dry cleaning solvent is useful for removing marks on upholstery.

In a moment's time, a stray pen mark may end up on your sofa as a result of a leak or a slip of the hand. Pen marks on your sofa don't have to be ugly, permanent stains. Treat pen stains on your sofa as quickly as possible using the correct cleaning products and techniques, and you are likely to have positive results.

Things You'll Need

• Cloths
• Dry cleaning solvent

Instructions

1. Fold a clean, white cloth and moisten it with dry cleaning solvent.

2. Dab the moistened cloth onto the stain. Do not rub the stain, or you may worsen the problem. Simply press the cloth down onto the ink.

3. Blot the stain with a dry, white cloth.

4. Dab the stain again with the dry cleaning solvent. Blot the area dry again. Repeat this process as many times as necessary in order to remove the ink stain.

Tips & Warnings

• If you don't have dry cleaning solvent, try rubbing alcohol instead.

References

• "Good Housekeeping": Stain Buster -- Ink, Ballpoint
• Mrs. Clean: Upholstery Cleaning and Stain Removal Tips