How to Remove Ink Stains from Clothing: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Ink stains on your favorite shirt or jeans? Don’t panic. Whether it's from a leaking pen, printer mishap, or a child’s drawing session gone rogue, ink stains can often be removed—if you act fast and use the right method.

What you’ll need:

90% rubbing alcohol
Acetone or acetone-based nail polish remover (optional backup)
Mild liquid detergent
A soft bristle brush
Old towels you don’t mind staining

SKIP TO:

- Step-by-Step Instructions

- What is the Ink Stain Still Wont Budge?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Act Quickly

The sooner you treat an ink stain, the better. Dried ink is much harder to remove, so try not to let the stain set.

Step 2: Blot the Stain (Don’t Rub!)

Place a paper towel or cloth under the stained fabric to prevent ink from spreading. Then blot the stain gently with another clean cloth to absorb excess ink. Avoid rubbing—this will push the ink deeper into the fibers.

Step 3: Apply Rubbing Alcohol (Towel Blotting Method)

Using the towel blotting method for better stain transfer:

Place a clean towel behind the stained area.
Pour 1 teaspoon of 90% or higher rubbing alcohol onto another towel.
Blot the stain with the alcohol-soaked towel. Do NOT rub. The ink should begin transferring onto both towels.
Use a clean section of the towel and reapply alcohol as needed.
Repeat blotting until the stain lifts significantly.

Step 4: Rinse with Cold Water

Once progress stalls, and the ink stops lifting, rinse the stained area thoroughly under cold water.

Step 5: Apply Liquid Detergent

Massage a small amount of liquid laundry detergent into the remaining stain. Use your fingers or a soft bristle brush to gently work it in. Let it sit for another 5–10 minutes.

Step 6: Wash Normally

Launder the garment in the coldest water recommended on the care label. Avoid drying until you’re sure the stain is gone—heat will set any ink that remains.

What If the Ink Stain Still Won’t Budge?

If rubbing alcohol isn’t fully removing the ink stain, you can try acetone as a stronger backup method using the towel blotting method:

Using Acetone (Optional Backup – Towel Blotting Technique)

Acetone works well on permanent ink or very stubborn stains.
Use only on durable fabrics like cotton, polyester, or denim—avoid delicate fabrics.
Always test on a hidden area first.

How to Apply:

If rubbing alcohol isn’t fully removing the ink stain, you can try acetone as a stronger backup method using the towel blotting method:

Place a clean towel behind the stained area.
Pour 1 teaspoon of acetone or nail polish remover onto another towel.
Blot the stain with the acetone-soaked towel. Do NOT rub. The ink should begin transferring onto both towels.
Repeat as needed, always blotting and never scrubbing. Use a clean section of the towel and reapply acetone as needed.
Rinse with cold water.
Apply detergent and wash as usual.

Tip: Use old or disposable towels, as they may get permanently stained during the process.

Final Tips for Ink Stain Removal

1. Avoid Letting the Stain Dry

Ink that dries can become permanently set into the fabric. Treat stains while they’re still wet for best results.

2. Work from the Outside In
When blotting, start from the outer edges of the stain and move inward. This helps prevent the stain from spreading.

3. Repeat if Necessary

Some ink stains may require several treatments. Be patient and repeat the process rather than using excessive force.

4. Keep a Stain Kit Handy

Store essentials like rubbing alcohol, cotton balls, old towels, and gloves in your laundry area. Having supplies on hand makes it easier to act quickly.

5. Be Careful with Delicate Fabrics

For silk, wool, or rayon, it’s best to avoid strong solvents like acetone. When in doubt, consult a professional cleaner.

6. Test First

Always test stain removal products on a hidden area of the fabric first to check for colorfastness and material safety.