How to Remove Ink From Leather Fabrics

Smooth leather stands up to some cleaning methods.

Removing ink from leather is tricky, but it can be done if you act quickly. The longer an ink stain has been on leather, the more difficult it will be to remove. There are a few important things to know when you set out to tackle an ink stain on a leather couch, handbag or jacket, handle the task incorrectly and you can end up causing even more damage to your treasured leather item.

Things You'll Need

• Leather protector
• Isopropyl alcohol
• White cotton cloth or cotton buds
• Leather protector

Instructions

1. Determine the leather type you are dealing with. If you have suede, untanned or nubuck leather you should not risk an at-home ink removal method, as you could end up ruining the leather. In this case contact or take your garment to a professional cleaner.

2. Determine the type of ink stain on your leather. A common ink mark that is left on leather is from a ballpoint pen or felt tip marker. You can attempt to remove these ink mark yourself. If your ink stain is from a permanent marker you have a bigger problem, as this cannot be removed. However, a professional may be able to dye your leather garment to match the stain.

3. Take a clean white cloth (colored cloth may transfer dye your leather, making the problem worse) or a cotton swab and dampen it with the rubbing alcohol. Test an area of your leather product that is hidden, such as a portion of an inside seam. This ensures that your leather will be able to take the treatment without further damage.

4. Wet a new area of the cloth or a new swab with the alcohol. Gently rub the ink stain, being careful not to rub away from the stain. Instead rub towards the center of the stain. As you notice the removal of the ink onto your cloth or swab, use a fresh area and repeat the process with the rubbing alcohol.

5. Apply a leather protector product when the stain is gone and the leather is dry. Treat all of your leather products with a leather protector regularly. This will help protect the leather from getting stained in the first place.

Tips & Warnings

• If in doubt contact a professional. If you are concerned that your home ink removal method may cause further damage, don't hesitate to contact a professional for help.

• If the stain has sunk in too deep, consider having the item professionally dyed to camouflage the stain.

• Do not use hairspray to remove ink. Hairspray can damage the leather further.

• Do not use abrasive cleaners to remove ink stains, these can remove more than just the ink stain.

• Do not remove ink stains with a colored cloth as this can dye the leather.

References

• Michigan State University Extension: Homemade Cleaners
• Good Housekeeping: Hints from Heloise - Cleaning Ink Off of a Leather Purse