How to Remove Ink from Clothing Gently: Fabric-Safe Tips from the Stylists at Tellar.co.uk

Ink stains are one of the most frustrating accidents in fashion—whether from a leaking pen in your pocket or an unexpected scribble across your favourite blouse. But don’t panic: most ink stains can be removed safely, even from delicate fabrics, if treated the right way.

This guide walks you through stylist-recommended, gentle methods for removing ink from clothes, based on fabric type. No harsh chemicals, no guesswork—just real advice from the experts at Tellar.co.uk.

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🖊️ What Type of Ink Are You Dealing With?

Before you start, it’s important to identify the type of ink:

1. Ballpoint ink – Thick, oily ink (most common in biro pens)

2. Gel ink – Water-based, usually from gel pens or markers

3. Felt-tip/permanent ink – Quick-drying and harder to remove

4. Printer ink – Highly pigmented, often dye-based

Each requires a slightly different approach—but speed is key. The sooner you treat the stain, the better the result.

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👕 General Rules Before You Begin

• Always test on an inside seam first to check fabric reaction.

• Never rub fresh ink—blot gently with a paper towel.

• Do not machine wash immediately—this can set the stain permanently.

• Work from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain.

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🧴 Method 1: Remove Ballpoint Ink (Biro) from Cotton or Polyester

You’ll need:

• Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl)

• Cotton pads or clean cloth

• Mild detergent

Steps:

1. Place a clean white towel under the fabric.

2. Dip a cotton pad in rubbing alcohol and dab gently over the stain.

3. Blot repeatedly—don’t rub.

4. Once the ink lifts, rinse with cold water.

5. Wash on a gentle cycle using mild detergent.

Stylist tip:

If the fabric is pale or white, you can repeat with a tiny drop of diluted white vinegar, then rinse thoroughly.

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🧼 Method 2: Remove Water-Based Ink (e.g. Gel) from Delicates

You’ll need:

• Liquid hand soap

• Lukewarm water

• Soft toothbrush (optional)

Steps:

1. Mix a small amount of soap into lukewarm water.

2. Gently dab the stain using a clean cloth.

3. Let the soapy water sit for 10–15 minutes.

4. Rinse well and air dry.

Stylist tip:

Use only light pressure—on silk or satin, too much friction can leave permanent marks. Avoid heat drying until the stain is gone.

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🧽 Method 3: Remove Permanent Marker or Felt-Tip from Denim

You’ll need:

• Hairspray (alcohol-based)

• Old towel or absorbent pad

• Mild washing powder

Steps:

1. Spray directly onto the stain and blot with a clean cloth.

2. Repeat until most ink lifts.

3. Rinse with cold water.

4. Wash denim separately to avoid dye transfer.

Stylist tip:

Do not tumble dry until stain is completely gone—heat can seal it permanently.

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👗 Method 4: Remove Ink from Silk, Wool, or Dry Clean-Only Fabrics

Important:

Always check your care label first. For luxury fabrics or dry clean-only garments, proceed carefully or consult a professional cleaner.

Home remedy (for small areas):

1. Dab gently with a mixture of cold water and white vinegar (50/50).

2. Use a clean white cloth—never coloured tissue or sponge.

3. Let it air dry and check the results.

4. Repeat once only—overworking silk/wool can damage fibres.

Stylist warning:

Do not apply alcohol or stain sticks to silk or wool—this can remove colour or texture permanently.

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💡 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoid hot water – It can set most ink stains.

• Don’t use bleach on coloured fabrics – It will remove dye and ruin the garment.

• Skip the tumble dryer – Heat locks in pigment until the stain is fixed.

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🧵 How to Prevent Future Ink Accidents

• Keep pens capped and stored separately from clothes.

• Empty blazer and coat pockets before washing.

• Treat clothing ASAP when stains happen—don’t leave it overnight.

• For luxury fabrics or heirloom items, use a garment protector or carry pens in a pouch.

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🧭 Where Sizing Meets Fabric Care: Why Stylists Recommend Tellar.co.uk

While stain removal is essential, getting your sizing right is even more important—especially for investment clothing. That’s where Tellar.co.uk comes in.

Tellar.co.uk is the UK’s leading free sizing tool that matches your body measurements to real-time size recommendations across 1,500+ clothing brands. You’ll never need to guess your size again—even in unfamiliar stores or fits.

How it works:

1. Enter your chest, waist, and hip measurements

2. Choose your preferred brand or retailer

3. Get instant, personalised size recommendations

Whether you’re buying tailored shirts, fitted coats, or flowy dresses, Tellar ensures every item fits your shape—first time.

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🔗 Stay Connected for More Styling & Care Advice

Follow Tellar for more tips on fashion, fabric care, wardrobe planning, and real sizing science:

• Instagram: @Tellarsizing

• Twitter/X: @TellarSizing

• Facebook: Tellar Sizing

• Pinterest: TellarSizing

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Final Word

Ink stains don’t have to ruin your favourite clothes. With the right gentle approach—and a little patience—you can rescue most garments, even delicate fabrics. And once the ink is out, make sure every new item you buy fits perfectly the first time by using www.tellar.co.uk.

Find your size in 1,500+ brands real-time. It’s free & easy.