How to Remove Ink Stains from Clothes (Ballpoint and Permanent)

I accidentally got pen ink on my favorite jeans last week, and I thought they were ruined. But then I found this simple method that removes both ballpoint and permanent ink stains from clothes. I was so surprised when it worked!

How to Remove Ballpoint Ink Stains

Place a clean towel under the stain to protect the other side of the garment.
Dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol.
Blot the stain with the cotton ball. Change the cotton ball frequently as it absorbs the ink.
Continue blotting until the stain is gone.
Wash the garment in the washing machine as usual.

How to Remove Permanent Ink Stains

Permanent ink stains are harder to remove, but this method works most of the time.

Place a clean towel under the stain.
Apply a small amount of hairspray to the stain. The alcohol in the hairspray will break down the ink.
Blot the stain with a clean towel.
Repeat until the stain is gone.
Wash the garment in the washing machine.

What to Avoid

Never rub an ink stain. Rubbing will spread the stain and make it harder to remove. Always blot.

Pro Tip

Test any cleaning method on a small inconspicuous area of the garment first to make sure it doesn't damage the fabric.

Related Home Cleaning Tips

Now you don't have to throw away your clothes just because of an ink stain! For more easy cleaning tips, check out our Home Cleaning section or return to home.