How to Easily Remove Marker Stains from Rash Guards
No parent likes to see evidence of artistic endeavors on the walls or surfaces in their home, so when those markers inevitably find their way onto children's clothes, it can be a source of stress. Fortunately, removing marker stains from rash guards is easier than you think! Read on to learn how.
Updated 03 Mar 2023
By Luke Smith
Steps for Cleaning Marker Stains from Rash Guards
- Check care tag: Before anything else, check the care tag on the rash guard to see what type of fabric it is made from and what the manufacturer recommends for cleaning it. If the tag includes “dry clean only” or “hand wash only” instructions, follow those.
- Pre-treat with rubbing alcohol: Start by pre-treating stain with rubbing alcohol, making sure to dab and not scrub the affected area. This will help break down the ink molecules, making them easier to remove.
- Use laundry detergent and water: Next, lather up some laundry detergent (liquid is best) and apply it to the stain using a scrub brush or soft cloth. Allow the detergent and water to work into the stain for 10 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
- Soak in a solution: Make a solution of ¼ cup white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of dishwashing liquid, and 2 cups of warm water. Soak the garment in the solution for 30 minutes before rinsing with water.
- Run a cycle in the washing machine: Once the stain has been pre-treated and soaked in a solution, run the garment through a regular cycle in the washing machine. Use cold water, as hot water may set the stain.
- Check the garment: After the cycle is complete, check the rash guard for any remaining stains. If the stain is still visible, repeat steps until it has been fully removed.
Additional Tips for Removing Marker Stains from Rash Guards
- Be sure to pretreat the stain right away, as the longer it sits, the harder it will be to remove.
- If the stain is particularly stubborn, try enzymatic cleaners like Zout or Oxyclean, as they are specifically designed to break down ink molecules.
- It’s always best to air dry the garment after washing, rather than putting it in the dryer, which may set the stain.
- To prevent these types of stains from occurring in the first place, consider buying removable sleeves for your child’s rash guard, which can easily be taken off and washed if needed.
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