How to Get Pen Ink Out of Carpet

Removing ink stains from a carpet may appear to be a grim task best left to professional carpet cleaners. But the problem isn't as serious as it seems. With some ingeniuty and elbow grease, an unsightly ink spot can be lifted using a few household products and a clean, white sock.

Things You'll Need

• Commercial stain remover
• White socks
• Small bucket
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 tsp. dishwashing liquid
• 1 tsp. ammonia

Instructions

Removing Ink from Synthetic Carpet Fiber (Nylon, Polyester or Polypropylene)

1. Spray spot with a commercial soil/stain remover such as Soilove or Spot Shot.

2. Wait 15 minutes.

3. Blot with a white sock or clean white cloth.

Removing Ink from Natural Fiber Carpet Fibers (Wool, Sisal, Seagrass or Coir)

1. Spray the ink stain with dishwashing detergent solution ( mix 1 tsp. of dishwashing detergent like Ivory Liquid with 1/2 cup water).

2. Blot with a clean white sock.

3. Spray with an ammonia solution (1 tsp. of ammonia mixed with 1/2 water).

4. Blot with a clean, white sock.

5. Spray with a vinegar solution (1/4 cup white vinegar with 1/4 cup water)

6. Blot with a clean, white sock.

7. Spray the stain with water.

8. Blot with a clean, white sock.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat the stain as soon as possible.

References

• Real Simple: Removing Ballpoint Ink Stains From Carpets