When the ink has already dried on your favourite shirt or pants, that stain feels like a nightmare. Dried stains are more difficult to treat as compared to fresh ink. But there is nothing to worry about because with the right methods and a little patience, you can remove that ink stain from your cloth and restore its original look.
If you are in search of practical solutions on how to remove pen ink from clothes after drying, this guide will help you. So let’s explore what’s in this blog.
Why Ink Stains Are Hard to Remove?
Ink contains the dyes and chemicals that can quickly bond with fabric fibers. As soon as the stain dries, it can become stubborn and resistant to regular washing. Still, there are several effective methods to handle this problem without damaging your clothes. Dried ink stains are stubborn, but effective removal methods exist.
Method 1: rubbing alcohol
It is one of the most effective ways to tackle the dried-in stains
- Place a clean paper towel under the stained area
- Dab rubbing alcohol directly onto the stain
- Blot with another towel until the ink transfers
- Rinse with cold water and wash the garment
Tip: Test alcohol on a hidden spot to ensure that it does not fade the fabric.
Method 2: Vinegar and Cornstarch
A natural solution for this purpose is using vinegar and corn starch. Both vinegar and cornstarch work well together.
- Mix vinegar with corn starch to form a paste
- Apply the paste to the stain area and let it dry
- Brush off the paste, then wash the fabric gently
- It is eco-friendly and safe for most fabrics
Method 3: Hairspray Trick
Using a hair spray with high alcohol content also helps you lift the dried ink.
- Spray it directly onto the ink mark
- Blot with a clean cloth until the stain fades
- Rinse thoroughly before washing
Although finding older style hair sprays is less common but they are particularly effective for this purpose. Try finding one of them.
Method 4: Commercial Stain Removers
You can use a commercial stain remover that is specifically designed for removing the ink stains if none of the home remedies work. Keep on following the instructions that a mentioned on the label. These products would penetrate deep into the fabric fibre. They are ideal for tough dried stains.
Method 5: Milk Soak:
You may be surprised after reading this, but if you soak your fabric in milk, it may help, lose an ink stain:
- Fill a bowl with the milk
- Submerge the stained area overnight
- Wash the garment as usual
This method is slower but may work well for delicate fabrics.
What Not to Do:
When learning how to remove pen ink from clothes after drying, avoid these mistakes:
- Do not scrub aggressively because the ink stain may spread.
- Try to use cold water because hot water would help the stain set permanently.
- Do not toss your stain cloth in the dryer before the stain is gone.
Final thoughts:
Removing dried ink stains is a difficult task, but with the right approach, it is possible. Whether you use rubbing alcohol, vinegar a paste, or a commercial stain remover, patience is the key in this whole process. Always try to treat the stain before washing and repeat the process if needed.
For more helpful cleaning and household tips, you can visit our website, A1 Liberty International. We provide guides and solutions to make them easier. So next time, if you are going to face something, you know exactly what to do.
