How to Clean Marker Off Leather

You can remove marker stains from your leather objects.

Non-toxic, permanent and other types of markers are OK for labeling boxes, folders and other containers, but marks from the markers are not OK on your leather coat, jacket or other leather object. Cleaning off marker stains is a challenging task that must be done immediately before the stain can set in. When cleaning the stain, you don't want to use a solvent that will damage the leather, and you don't want the marker stain to spread.

Things You'll Need

• 2 soft, nonabrasive cloths or rags
• Hair spray (non-oily) or automotive vinyl cleaner

Instructions

1. Sweep the area containing the marker stain with a soft, nonabrasive cloth or rag to remove any loose dust and dirt.

2. Spray 1 tbsp. of hair spray or an automotive vinyl cleaner onto a soft, nonabrasive cloth or rag.

3. Blot the marker stain from the leather object. Do not rub--this will push the marker stain farther into the leather.

4. Fold the cloth or rag in half. Re-spray the cloth or rag with 1 tbsp. of hair spray or an automotive vinyl cleaner. Continue blotting the marker stain from the leather object until the stain is gone.

5. Pat the spot where the stain was with a clean, nonabrasive cloth or rag to absorb any excess liquid from the leather.

Tips & Warnings

• If you see any marker fragments or dirt residue, clean the area where the stain was with saddle soap. Mix ½ tbsp. of saddle soap and 1 cup of water in a bowl. Dip a cloth or rag into the soap mixture. Wring out excess mixture. Blot the area with the soap-soaked cloth or rag. Rinse the area with a damp cloth or rag.

• You can also use a leather ink remover kit to remove marker stains from your leather object. The kit is available at hardware, home improvement and shoe repair stores as well as online.

References

• Cleaning.Lifetips: Furniture Cleaning Tips
• Furniture Clinic: How To Remove Ink Stains From Leather

Resources

• Furniture Clinic: Leather Guides & FAQ