Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean marker stains?

Yes, you can use rubbing alcohol to clean marker stains. Use a cotton swab soaked in alcohol and dab lightly at the stain until it begins to lighten.

What if I don't have rubbing alcohol?

If you don't have rubbing alcohol, hairspray and bleach can work instead. Spray the area generously with hairspray and allow it to sit for five minutes. Then make a solution of ¼ cup bleach and a gallon of water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and dab lightly at the area.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Marker > Shift dress

Eliminating Marker Stains From Your Favorite Shift Dress

Q: What do I use for water soluble markers?

For water soluble markers, such as fabric pens or washable markers, mix ½ cup vinegar and 1 tablespoon of dish detergent. Dip a cloth into the solution and press it onto the stained area. Dab the area gently and then sponge the area with cold water.

On a sunny day, you decided to unleash your creative side and now there’s a blot of permanent marker on your favorite shift dress. Don’t panic! This article will help with some tips on how to clean stubborn marker stains from delicate fabric.

Updated 03 Mar 2023

By Jacobim Mugabe

Removing Permanent Marker

The simplest way to remove or minimize a permanent marker stain is by using rubbing alcohol. Using a cotton swab soaked in the alcohol, begin to dab at the stain lightly. Do not rub, as this could cause the marker to set further into the fabric. Do not use too much pressure either, as rubbing alcohol can damage delicate materials. It may take some time, but keep dabbing until the marker begins to lighten or lift off material.

Water Soluble Markers & Fabric Pens

If marker is water soluble, such as a fabric pen or a washable marker, create a mixture of ½ cup vinegar and 1 tablespoon of dish detergent. Dip a cloth into the solution and press it onto stained area. Dab the area gently and then sponge the area with cold water. Repeat the process until the stain completely disappears.

Hairspray and Bleach

Hairspray and bleach can work wonders on marker stains. Spray the area generously with a good quality hairspray and allow it to sit for five minutes. Next, make a solution of ¼ cup bleach and a gallon of water. Dampen a clean cloth with the solution and dab lightly at the area. If possible, hang the dress outside to dry in the sun. Sunlight can also naturally help lift the stain without addition of bleach.

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