Ballpoint Ink

Carefully test these helpful hints, inks vary.

Because ink stains vary in strength and color density, you may have to go from stain remover, to alcohol, to glycerine, to bleach, to hairspray, to the cleaners.

A ballpoint ink stain is one of life's little accidents most of us are all too familiar with. However, a ballpoint stain doesn't necessarily mean that all is lost. Many such stains can be removed, either by professional dry cleaners or by you in your own home.

A proven ink remover…

One commercially available product for removing ballpoint ink is INKNIX. It is available in some stationery and office supply stores. It is manufactured by the Ozburn Janesville Corporation of Janesville, Wisconsin. Pretreat ink stains with it before washing or sponging the fabric with a dry cleaning solvent.

Another method, sponge the ink mark with rubbing alcohol. Next, rub detergent into the stain. Then rinse with warm water.

The glycerine technique…

If the stain remains, try applying lukewarm glycerine. You can buy glycerine at drug stores and department stores. To use glycerine, rinse a cloth in hot, sudsy water. Squeeze it almost dry, then pour a little glycerine on the warm cloth and rub into the stain. Let it set a minute or two, then work the glycerine into the stain. Now, rub the stain again. Let the glycerine set a minute or two longer. Rub again and rinse the stain.

If the stain remains…

Repeat the process. If the fabric is bleachable, you can remove any remaining stain by washing it with detergent and chlorine bleach. Be sure to follow the directions on the bleach container.

The hairspray technique…

You may also use a hairspray containing alcohol. Saturate the stain with spray and use the sponging method to remove the stain. Place the stained side down over absorbent material such as white paper towel or white, lint-free cloth. Use another piece of folder white lint-free cloth to lightly brush the stained area, working from the outside to the center.

Change the absorbent material beneath the pad frequently. Continue this spray and sponge technique until the stain is removed. As with any stain, always try to work from the reverse side of the fabric to avoid pressing the stain into the fabric.

Sometimes the last resort…

For valuable items, take them to the dry cleaners as soon as possible after the stain is discovered. Be sure you point out the stain to the dry cleaners. You shouldn't try to remove ink stains from suede or leather garments at home. Always take these to the dry cleaners.

The Georgia Cooperative Extension Service is not endorsing Inknix. There may be other products that will work equally well in removing ink stains. You may find these by checking labels or asking for such products where cleaning supplies are sold.

For more information on removing stains, contact your local County Extension Office.