What do I need to clean ink stains from formal wear?

You will need dish soap, cotton swabs, hairspray, rubbing alcohol, white vinegar, cotton balls, baking soda, an old toothbrush, and a towel.

How do I remove an ink stain from my formal wear?

Soak the stain with a mixture of dish soap and water. Spot treat with either rubbing alcohol or hairspray, rinse with white vinegar, use baking soda and an old toothbrush to scrub the area, then rinse and dry.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Ink > Formalwear

Say Goodbye to Ink Stains: How to Get Rid of Them From Your Formalwear

If you've ever found yourself staring in despair at an ink stain on your formal dress or suit, you're not alone. It's frustrating when ink finds its way onto our favorite outfits, but don't worry-- there are ways to clean the stains without ruining your precious clothing. Read on to find the best ways to get rid of ink stains from your formalwear.

Updated 20 Feb 2023

By Jacobim Mugabe

What You’ll Need

Dish soap
Cotton swabs
Hairspray
Rubbing alcohol
White vinegar
Cotton balls
Baking soda
Old toothbrush
Towel

Step 1: Soak the Stain with Dish Soap and Water

The first step is to soak the stained area with a mixture of dish soap and water. Let the area soak for 30 minutes before moving to the next step. This will help to loosen the ink stain.

Step 2: Spot Treat with Alcohol or Hairspray

Once ink has soaked for 30 minutes, spot treat it with either rubbing alcohol or hairspray. Apply either one to the stained area directly and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Then, take a cotton swab and lightly dab at the stain until the ink starts to come off.

Step 3: Rinse with White Vinegar

Once ink has been treated with either hairspray or alcohol, rinse the area with white vinegar. Dip a cotton ball into some white vinegar and dab at the stain. This will help to further loosen the ink and make it easier to remove.

Step 4: Use Baking Soda and Toothbrush

After rinsing with the white vinegar, the next step is to use baking soda to scrub away the last remaining bits of ink. Make a paste by combining baking soda and water, then use an old toothbrush to scrub the area in a circular motion. This will help to break up any remaining ink and should remove the stain.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Once the stain has been completely removed, rinse the area with cold water and pat it dry with a towel. Then, hang your garment and let it air dry. And that’s it!

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