How to Remove Ink Pen From Fabric

The ink in pens can be difficult to remove from fabric.

Ink pens are a common writing instrument that come in a variety of colors and can be found in most homes and businesses. The ink inside the pen is typically fast drying. This makes removing the ink more difficult once it comes in contact with fabric. When dealing with ink pen stains, it is best to remove them as soon as possible before laundering the fabric.

Things You'll Need

• Dry-cleaning solvent
• White cloths
• Paper towels
• Rubbing alcohol
• Small container
• Liquid laundry detergent
• Prewash stain remover

Instructions

1. Pour a dry-cleaning solvent onto a white cloth. Blot the ink stain with the cloth to keep the ink from bleeding. Rinse the area of the fabric with cool water.

2. Lay the fabric flat. Place several paper towels directly under the ink pen stain.

3. Pour rubbing alcohol in a small container. Dip a clean, white cloth in the rubbing alcohol. Blot the ink pen stain with the cloth. Begin at the edge of the stain and work toward the center. Allow the fabric to air dry.

4. Add a small drop of liquid laundry detergent to the stain. Rub the detergent gently in and allow to sit overnight.

5. Rinse the ink pen stain under cool water. Apply a prewash stain remover to the fabric and launder as you normally would in cool water.

6. Examine the fabric before placing it in a dryer. If the ink pen is still present, repeat the process.

Tips & Warnings

• Using hot water could set the ink stain permanently into the fabric.

References

• Good Housekeeping: Stain Buster - Ink, Ballpoint
• Reader's Digest: 13 Ways to Use Rubbing Alcohol
• Mrs.Clean: Tips For Ink Stain Removal