How to Remove Pen Ink from Clothes After Drying

We’ve all had those moments when a pen leaks or we accidentally scribble on our clothes. But what if you don’t notice the stain until after your laundry has already dried? Don’t worry—there are still ways to remove ink from clothes even after the stain has set. Here’s how you can rescue your favorite outfit from permanent ink stains.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the following items:

• Rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Dish soap
• Hydrogen peroxide (for white or colorfast fabrics)
• Cotton balls or a clean cloth
• Old toothbrush

Step 2: Pre-Treat the Ink Stain

1. Apply Rubbing Alcohol or Hand Sanitizer: Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer directly onto the ink stain. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes to help break down the ink.
2. Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean cloth or cotton ball to blot the stain gently. Rubbing may cause the stain to spread further.

Step 3: Use a Vinegar and Baking Soda Paste

1. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda to form a paste.
2. Apply the paste to the ink-stained area and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
3. Gently scrub the stain using an old toothbrush in a circular motion.
4. Rinse with cold water and check if the stain has lifted.

Step 4: Wash with Dish Soap and Hydrogen Peroxide

1. Mix a few drops of dish soap with hydrogen peroxide.
2. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for another 5–10 minutes.
3. Wash the garment in cold water.
4. Check the stain before drying again—if the stain remains, repeat the process before placing the garment in the dryer.

Step 5: Launder as Usual

Once the stain is gone or significantly faded, wash the garment as you normally would. Be sure to check if the ink stain has completely disappeared before putting the clothing in the dryer, as heat can make stains harder to remove.

Additional Tips for Removing Ink from Clothes

• Hairspray Method: If you don’t have rubbing alcohol, an alcohol-based hairspray can work as an alternative.
• Milk Soak: Soaking the stained area in milk overnight can help lift ink stains from certain fabrics.
• Lemon Juice & Salt: Applying lemon juice and salt to the stain can help with natural bleaching, especially for white clothes.
• Professional Cleaning: If the stain persists after multiple attempts, consider taking the garment to a professional cleaner.

Final Thoughts

Even after drying, ink stains don’t have to be permanent. By acting quickly and using the right stain-removal techniques, you can get pen ink out of clothes and restore your garments to their original condition. Next time an ink mishap happens, you’ll know exactly how to tackle it!

Have you tried any of these methods? Let us know your favorite ink stain removal trick in the comments!