Sharpie has been known to be one of the most difficult things to get out of clothes. It stains everything it touches and it’s nearly impossible to remove without a lot of scrubbing. If you are wearing clothes that are stained by a sharpie, it may be time to take some steps to get rid of the ink.
If you ever get a sharpie stuck in your clothing, don’t worry – there is an easy way to remove the ink. All you need to do is soak the clothes in cold water for around an hour, followed by a load of laundry detergent. Be sure to use caution when doing this as moving the clothes around can cause them to rip. Finally, rinse them in hot water and lay them out on a dryer for a few minutes before putting them back into wore.
Although getting sharpie out of clothes can be a frustrating process, it is definitely possible. By following these simple steps, you can easily get rid of any ink that has gotten into your clothing.
Accidental stains from permanent markers can be frustrating, especially when they end up on our favorite clothes. However, with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can effectively remove Sharpie stains and salvage your garments. Let’s explore some tried-and-tested methods for tackling this stubborn issue.
Rubbing Alcohol Method
The rubbing alcohol method is an excellent way to remove permanent marker stains from clothes. Here’s how you can do it:
- Dip a cloth or sponge in rubbing alcohol and dab it around the stain, then directly on it.
- Change the paper towel often to allow it to absorb the color effectively.
- Once the stain is removed, wash the clothing as directed in the washing machine.
Hairspray Method
Another effective method for removing Sharpie stains is using hairspray. Follow these steps:
- Place the garment on a flat, hard surface with a clean cloth or towel underneath the stained part.
- Soak a cotton ball with hairspray and press it firmly against the stain.
- Blot the stain repeatedly with the cotton ball until you notice the stain transferring from the garment to the cotton ball.
- Once the stain is removed, wash the clothing as directed in the washing machine.
Hand Sanitizer Method
If you don’t have rubbing alcohol or hairspray on hand, you can try using hand sanitizer. Here’s what you need to do:
- Apply alcohol-based hand sanitizer to the stain and let it soak in for a few minutes.
- Use a paper towel to wipe the stain off, starting from the outer part of the stain and moving towards the middle.
- Take the garment or fabric and clean it under running water.
- Place it in the washing machine, using cold water and ordinary detergent.
WD40 Method
WD40 is a versatile product known for its ability to remove tough stains, including permanent marker stains. Follow these steps for effective stain removal:
- Apply WD40 to the stain and blot it off using a paper towel.
- Rinse the area with water and wash the garment in the washing machine using your regular detergent.
Bleach Method
Caution: The bleach method should be used with care, as it can affect the color of your clothes. It is only recommended for white garments or fabrics that can withstand bleaching. Follow these steps:
- Apply a small amount of bleach and water solution (¼ cup Clorox Disinfecting Bleach added to ¾ cup water) to the stain.
- Wash the item in the hottest water recommended on the care label, using detergent and additional Clorox 2® for Colors 3-in-1.
- Air dry the garment and check to ensure that the stain removal was successful.
Precautions
Before applying any of these stain removal methods, it’s essential to exercise caution and take necessary precautions:
- Test the substance (rubbing alcohol, hairspray, hand sanitizer, WD40, or bleach) on a small, inconspicuous part of the clothing to check for any adverse reactions or color fading.
- Read the care label of the clothing item to ensure that the recommended washing instructions are followed.
- For delicate fabrics or valuable garments, it’s advisable to seek professional help from a dry cleaner.
Conclusion
Removing Sharpie stains from clothes is possible with the right methods and a little patience. Whether you choose to use rubbing alcohol, hairspray, hand sanitizer, WD40, or bleach, make sure to take precautions and test the substances on inconspicuous areas. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can effectively eliminate permanent marker stains and give your clothes a new lease on life.
FAQs
- Can I use these methods on colored clothes?
- While some methods may work on colored clothes, it’s crucial to test the substance on an inconspicuous area to prevent color fading or damage. Alternatively, consult a professional for advice.
- What if the stain doesn’t come out after using these methods?
- If the stain persists, consider repeating the process or seeking professional help from a dry cleaner who specializes in stain removal.
- Are there any other household items that can help remove permanent marker stains?
- Yes, other household items like white vinegar, baking soda, or lemon juice may also be effective in removing Sharpie stains. However, it’s important to test them first and follow the appropriate cleaning instructions.
- Can I use these methods on delicate fabrics?
- Delicate fabrics require special care. It’s recommended to consult a professional dry cleaner for stain removal on delicate or valuable garments.
- How can I prevent permanent marker stains in the future?
- To prevent permanent marker stains, always be cautious when using markers and place a protective barrier, such as a plastic sheet or cloth, underneath your work area.
