How to Remove Pen Stains: A Step-by-Step Guide
Pen stains can be a real nuisance, leaving unsightly marks on our clothes, furniture, and other surfaces. But don’t worry, with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can easily remove pen stains and restore your belongings to their original condition.
Understanding Pen Stains
Before we dive into the removal process, it’s essential to understand what causes pen stains. Pen stains are typically caused by the ink or dye in the pen bleeding through the fabric or surface it comes into contact with. The type of pen stain you’re dealing with will determine the best removal method.
Removing Pen Stains from Clothing
If you’ve spilled ink on your clothing, act quickly to prevent the stain from setting. Here’s a step-by-step guide to remove pen stains from clothing:
- Act fast: The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Pen ink can permanently bond with fabric if left untreated.
- Blot, don’t rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the excess ink as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it further and make it harder to remove.
- Apply a stain remover: Use a stain remover like Shout or OxiClean to help lift the stain. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the solution directly to the stain.
- Soak the garment: Submerge the garment in cold water and let it soak for several hours or overnight. This will help loosen the stain.
- Wash the garment: Wash the garment in cold water using a mild detergent. Check to see if the stain is still visible before putting it in the dryer. If the stain persists, repeat the stain removal process.
- Launder as usual: Once the stain is removed, launder the garment as usual.
Removing Pen Stains from Surfaces
Removing pen stains from surfaces like wood, plastic, or metal can be a bit more challenging. Here’s a step-by-step guide to remove pen stains from surfaces:
- Identify the surface: Determine the type of surface you’re dealing with. This will help you choose the best cleaning solution.
- Blot the stain: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the excess ink as possible.
- Apply a cleaning solution: Use a cleaning solution like white vinegar, water, or a commercial cleaning product to help lift the stain. Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Wipe clean: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe away the stain. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
- Dry the surface: Use a dry cloth to dry the surface and prevent water spots.
Removing Pen Stains from Carpets and Upholstery
Removing pen stains from carpets and upholstery can be a bit more challenging than removing stains from clothing or surfaces. Here’s a step-by-step guide to remove pen stains from carpets and upholstery:
- Act fast: The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Pen ink can permanently bond with fabric if left untreated.
- Blot, don’t rub: Gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the excess ink as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can spread it further and make it harder to remove.
- Apply a stain remover: Use a stain remover like Shout or OxiClean to help lift the stain. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the solution directly to the stain.
- Blot the stain: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to blot the stain, working from the outside in. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
- Rinse and blot: Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a clean cloth.
- Dry the area: Use a fan or a hair dryer on a low setting to dry the area completely.
Preventing Pen Stains
While it’s possible to remove pen stains, prevention is always the best approach. Here are some tips to prevent pen stains:
- Always keep a pen cap on when not in use.
- Use a pen holder or desk organizer to keep pens off the surface.
- Avoid using pens near fabrics or surfaces that can stain easily.
- Consider using pens with a waterproof or water-resistant ink.
Conclusion
Removing pen stains can be a bit of a challenge, but with the right techniques and cleaning solutions, you can easily remove stains from clothing, surfaces, and carpets. Remember to act quickly, blot rather than rub, and use the right cleaning solutions to lift the stain. By following these tips, you can prevent pen stains from becoming a permanent problem.
I left my two-year-old with a white board marker pen at the table (don’t ask) and of course this was the result. I have tried nail varnish remover, toothpaste and alcohol in the form of gin but to no avail. Any suggestions would be appreciated!
White spirit, usually.
Or a light application of a belt sander.
try hand sanitizer and paper towels
Paint thinner or mineral spirits might work. Put SMALL amount on a rag, buff it out. Wipe any residual away with a 2nd rag (damp – from water – or dry). But obv these could be risky to the finish so try on a small unnoticeable spot near the edge first just in case. Or try the other options and save that as plan b.
I’ve also heard baking soda and fine grit sand paper [mentioned](https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-remove-permanent-marker-from-wood-5079775) for removing stains on wood but never tried it
Magic Eraser. It’s a microfine sandpaper, so it might dull the finish a bit.
Goo Gone or Goof Off will remove the marks. You could also try WD-40