How to Permanently Remove Sharpie from Fabric: Effective Home Solutions
Sharpie stains on fabric can be frustrating to deal with. However, with the right methods, these marks can be removed permanently from your favorite clothing and upholstery. This guide will walk you through several effective home solutions, including using common household items like methylated spirits, rubbing alcohol, and hairspray, as well as specialized products like Stain Devils Ink Remover. Whether you're dealing with a recent or old stain, these methods will help you achieve cleaner and clearer fabric.
Common Household Solutions
Did you know that many household items can be used to remove Sharpie from fabric? Methylated spirits and rubbing alcohol are particularly useful. These can be found at your local DIY store or chemist. However, if you prefer to use items you already have at home, alcohol-based hair sprays and alcohol-based antibacterial hand soaps in liquid form can also get the job done. These solutions work by breaking down the ink, which makes them effective for both fabric and upholstery.
Methylated Spirits and Rubbing Alcohol Method
To start, apply rubbing alcohol directly to the sharpie stain. Place a clean pad of kitchen paper or cloth under the Sharpie stain and dab with another piece of alcohol-soaked paper, moving to a clean spot frequently to prevent spreading the ink. This method works because the alcohol breaks down the ink, making it easier to remove. Once you’ve broken down the majority of the ink, clean the area with dish soap and wash the fabric as you normally would. If you are dealing with upholstery, follow up with an upholstery cleaner to ensure the stain is completely gone.
Blotting the Stain
After cleaning the stain with alcohol, it is important to blot the area to remove any remaining liquid. Use a clean cloth to dab the stain, being careful not to rub it as this can spread the ink further. Keep adding alcohol and blotting until no more black comes up. This process is effective in ensuring the stain is fully removed without causing damage to the fabric.
Specialized Products
For those looking for a more comprehensive solution, products like Stain Devils Ink Remover can be found in grocery store laundry aisles. These products are designed for different types of stains, including ink. Look for the one specifically for ink stains; they are usually small yellow bottles. Follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results. I have successfully used these products on many occasions to save my clothes from permanent stains.
Success Stories
One of my most memorable experiences involved a beloved white sweatshirt. While at college, I accidentally touched the sweatshirt with a Sharpie pen, leaving a lasting ink stain. At the time, I did not know about the effectiveness of hairspray. I tried various stain removers, including bleach (since the sweatshirt was white), but nothing seemed to work. I even left the sweatshirt in my laundry basket for a few years, hoping it would come out. Eventually, I heard about using hairspray for ink stains and tried it on the spot. To my surprise, it worked immediately, and even after being baked in the dryer multiple times!
Conclusion
Removing Sharpie from fabric can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can be done effectively using items you have at home or specialized products from the store. Whether you are tackling a new or old stain, methylated spirits, rubbing alcohol, hairspray, or specialized stain removers, these methods will help you achieve cleaner and clearer fabric. By understanding and utilizing these techniques, you can save your favorite clothing and upholstery from permanent Sharpie marks.