How to Remove Ink Stains from Clothes
The pen is mightier than the sword, and you can use it to voice your issues or bring light to the world, but if you are not careful, that ink from the pen can leave a big prominent stain to deal with. Regardless of how the stains got there, ink stain removal is a common annoyance for many.
Because the ink is composed mainly of pigments and dyes and can penetrate and set into the fabric quickly, it requires specialized stain remover products and immediate attention, complicating the process.
Hence, using a high-quality, reliable, and effective stain remover product, such as Vanish, eradicates stains, eliminates odor, and removes germs while being gentle on the fabric.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to remove ink stains from clothes using Vanish, using pre-treating, soaking, or washing techniques.
Ink Stain: Common Types
Not all ink types are the same, so some ink spots will be easier to remove than others. Here are the most common types of ink stains:
Ballpoint Pen Ink: Oil-based ink containing dyes and solvents, making them prone to setting quickly.
Fountain Pen Ink: Water-based ink, varying in color intensity, leaves liquid stains on paper or fabric.
- Permanent Marker: Intense, long-lasting, and contains pigments, solvents, and resins.
Ink Stain Removal using Vanish
Just throwing away the ink-stained items is very tempting, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
Note: Before tackling ink stains, it’s always best to blot – not rub – any excess ink to stop it from spreading before you apply Vanish.
Use Vanish Oxi Action Crystal White Powder to remove ink stains, neutralize odors, and eliminate germs from white clothes; for colored clothes, use Vanish Oxi Action Powder.
There are three methods for utilizing Vanish products to eliminate stains: Pre-treat, Soaking, and adding directly to the Wash.
Although pre-treatment and soaking are typically reserved for tough stains, the in-wash method is the simplest and can be combined with pre-treat or soaking.
INSTRUCTIONS
Option 1: Pre Treat
Add ¼ scoop (15g) of Vanish Oxi Action Powder in the water (MAX 40°C)
Stir for 30 seconds.
Apply the mixture directly onto the stain, rub it gently, and let it sit for 10 mins (do not allow Vanish to dry on the fabric.
Wash as usual.
Option 2: Soak
Add 1 scoop (60g) of Vanish Oxi Action Powder in 4L of water.
Stir for 30 seconds.
Soak colored clothes in the solution for 1h max, and for whites, it's 4h max.
Wash as usual.
Option 3: Wash
Add Vanish Oxi Action Powder to your machine on top of your laundry detergent. Below are the recommended stain remover dosages:
• ½ scoop (30g) for normal stains.
• 1 scoop (60g) for tough & dried stains.
Permanent or Dried Ink Stain Removal using Vanish
An ink stain (fresh or dried) left by a permanent marker, highlighter, gel pen, industrial marker, artistic marker, etc., can be challenging to remove.
However, these dried ink stains can be tackled by soaking the affected garment with Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal. This product is safe for both colored and white garments and can be added to your washing machine with detergent.
INSTRUCTIONS
Soak
Add 10ml of Vanish Multi Use Liquid Stain Removal to 1 litre of water (40°C max).
Leave the item for 1h max (colored) and 4h max (whites)
After soaking, wash as usual or rinse thoroughly
FAQs
What is the best method to remove ballpoint pen stains?
The selection of stain removal method depends on the clothing item's material. However, using the Vanish stain remover has proven to be the most effective and reliable method to remove the toughest ink stains from any fabric.
Does toothpaste remove ink stains?
Toothpaste is the least effective method for removing ink stains from clothes, and its abrasive nature can damage the fibers in your clothes and leave a residue on the fabric.
Can ink stains be removed by dry cleaning?
While dry cleaning can sometimes help remove ink stains, its success rate is less effective at removing water-based ink stains.