How to get pen ink out of fabric?

Getting Pen Ink Out of Fabric: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Start Quickly: The faster you treat the stain, the easier it will come out. Try to work on the fabric as soon as possible.
• Place a Towel Under the Stain: To stop the ink from spreading, place an old towel or paper under the stained area, pressing from behind.
• Blot, Don’t Rub: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to gently blot the stain. Rubbing can spread the ink further and work it deeper into the fabric.
• Test a Cleaning Agent: Apply a small amount of your chosen cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to check that it won’t harm or discolor the fabric. This step is very important because fabrics react differently to cleaning agents.
• Use Isopropyl Alcohol:
  • Apply a Small Amount: Dampen a cotton ball or clean cloth with isopropyl alcohol (often available in pharmacies). Do not pour the solution directly onto the fabric.
  • Blot the Stain: Starting from the edge, gently blot the ink stain. The alcohol helps break down the ink so it becomes easier to remove.
  • Repeat as Needed: Continue blotting gently until you see the ink transfer to the cloth. Be patient and avoid saturating the fabric too much.
• Rinse with Cold Water: After you’ve treated most of the ink, rinse the area under cold running water. This helps remove any remaining alcohol and ink particles.
• Pre-Treat with a Laundry Detergent: Gently rub a small amount of a liquid laundry detergent onto the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing again. The detergent acts to help break up any lingering ink.
• Wash the Fabric: Finally, launder the fabric as per its care label instructions. Make sure you use a cold or warm water setting rather than hot water, as high heat might set the stain permanently if it isn’t completely removed.
• Air Dry, Don’t Use Dryer: Let the fabric air dry. Using a dryer before ensuring the stain is completely gone could cause the remaining ink to become permanent.
• Re-Treat if Necessary: If the stain persists after the first wash, repeat the above steps. Often, multiple treatments are needed to fully remove a stubborn pen ink stain.