Ink stains on clothes can be a real nuisance, and we've all been there at some point, wondering how to clean up the mess. Whether you accidentally left a pen in your shirt pocket, had a ballpoint pen leak, or your kids decided to create their masterpiece on your favourite jeans, ink stains can seem like a permanent blemish.
However, fear not! In this blog, we'll explore the best ways to remove ink stains from clothes, regardless of the type of ink or fabric. Let's dive in and discover the most effective methods to rescue your clothes.
Understanding Ink Types
Before we get into the cleaning process, it's essential to understand the type of ink you're dealing with. Common types of ink stains include ballpoint pen ink, fountain pen ink, and permanent marker ink, or printer ink. Additionally, the fabric type and the age of the stain play a significant role in determining the success of stain removal.
Why ink stains can be challenging to remove
Ink stains are notorious for their stubborn nature due to the composition of most inks, which contain pigments and dyes designed to adhere to surfaces. When ink makes its way onto your clothes, it can penetrate the fabric fibres, making it difficult to remove through conventional washing alone. This is where a targeted approach comes into play, combining pre-treatment and specialized washing to tackle the stain effectively.
How to remove ink stains from clothes
Pre-treatment
Load the washing machine
Add Hapiso laundry pod
Select the right cycle
Set the water temperature
Start the wash cycle
Inspect the stain
Place a clean cloth or paper towel under the stained area to avoid spreading the ink further.
Dab the stain gently with rubbing alcohol using a clean cloth or cotton ball. Start from the outer edges and work your way in to prevent the ink from spreading.
Check the fabric care label to ensure that rubbing alcohol is safe for the fabric.
Place the stained garment and any other items into the washing machine, ensuring not to overload it for optimal cleaning.
Drop a Hapiso laundry pod directly into the drum before adding clothes. This ensures proper dissolution and distribution of the detergent.
Hapiso laundry pods are specially designed to provide superior stain-fighting power while being gentle on fabrics.
They contain advanced enzymes and cleaning agents that effectively break down and lift stubborn stains, including ink, without causing damage to your clothes.
Additionally, these laundry pods are convenient to use and eliminate the need for measuring detergent, making them an excellent choice for hassle-free stain removal.
Choose a suitable washing cycle based on the fabric type and the care label's recommendations.
Select a water temperature that is safe for the fabric and the stain, following the care label instructions.
Let the washing machine work its magic, allowing the Hapiso laundry pod to break down the ink stain and clean the garments thoroughly.
After the wash cycle is complete, inspect the stained area. If the ink stain persists, do not dry the garment as heat can set the stain.
Repeat the pre-treatment steps and wash the garment again before drying.
How to remove ink stains from different types of fabric
How to get ink out of a shirt
For shirts, start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth to absorb excess ink. Then, apply rubbing alcohol or a stain remover directly to the stain. Gently dab the stain, don't rub it in, rinse with cold water, and launder as usual.
How to get ink out of jeans and pants
With denim and other sturdy fabrics, you can use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to blot the stain.
How to get ink out of canvas or linen clothing
A paste made from baking soda and water can effectively lift ink stains from canvas or linen. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and launder.
Ink stain removal for chenille clothing
For delicate chenille fabric, use a gentle touch with rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover. Blot the stain carefully, avoiding excessive rubbing to prevent damage to the fabric.
How to get ink stains out of corduroy clothing
For corduroy, start by blotting the stain with a cloth soaked in milk. Follow up with a stain remover before laundering as usual.
How to remove ink stains from cotton, polyester, nylon
These fabrics respond well to rubbing alcohol or a mixture of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the solution to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse and launder.
How to get ink out of spandex and Lycra
Use rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover to treat ink stains on spandex and Lycra. Blot the stain gently and launder as usual.
Ink stain removal for suede fabric
For suede, sprinkle corn starch over the stain and let it sit overnight. Brush off the powder and repeat if necessary until the stain is gone.
How to remove ink stains from wool clothing
Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in milk, then apply a mild detergent directly to the stain. Rinse with cold water and air dry.
How to get pen ink out of clothes
Different types of ink require specific treatment methods:
- Ballpoint ink: Blot with rubbing alcohol or hairspray, then launder as usual.
- Water-based ink: Rinse with cold water and apply a mixture of dish soap and water before laundering.
- Permanent ink: Treat with rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover before laundering.
Frequently asked questions
Q. How to remove pen ink from clothes after drying
A. For dried ink stains, try rubbing alcohol or a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Apply the solution to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then launder as usual.
Q. How to get pen ink out of clothes with hand sanitizer
A. Apply a small amount of hand sanitizer directly to the stain and blot gently with a cloth. Rinse with cold water and repeat if necessary before laundering.
Q. How to get ink out of clothes with hair spray
A. Spray the stained area with hairspray, let it sit for a few minutes, then blot gently with a clean cloth. Rinse with cold water and launder as usual.
Q. How to get ink out of clothes with vinegar
A. Dilute vinegar with water and apply it directly to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a clean cloth before laundering.
Q. How to remove ink stains from clothes home remedies:
A. Other home remedies include using milk, baking soda paste, or corn starch to lift ink stains from clothes. Apply the chosen remedy to the stain, let it sit, then rinse and launder as usual.
Conclusion
Dealing with ink stains on clothes can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn't have to be permanent. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove ink stains from your clothes using a washing machine. Remember, patience and diligence are key when treating stubborn stains. Always check the fabric care label and test any products on a hidden area before applying them to the stain. With the right approach, you can rescue your favourite garments and extend their lifespan.