It is not easy to keep household carpets clean. Dirt and food stains are commonly finding their place in living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways. However, despite our undying attempts, some stains require more understanding and effort. Such are ink stains.
We all know we need to take action to remove ink stains as soon as we notice them. The drier the ink, the harder it is to remove. Of course, knowing exactly what we are dealing with will help you when cleaning such a mess.
Ball Point Ink Stains
The chemical components that suspend the dyes in ballpoint ink make them challenging to remove. It is the purpose of ballpoint ink to stain a writing surface. One of the advantages of the mixture of solvents, water, and dyes that composes ink is that it stains paper so well. However, it also stains other surfaces.
Taking these steps will help you remove a stain from your carpet:
- First, buy two cans of cheap lacquer hair spray based on how quickly the stain disappears. Ink stains can be softened by spraying hairspray on them.
- Blot the lacquer with a white cloth towel. Do not scrub the stain, but rather repeat this process until the stain disappears.
- You should be able to remove any traces of lacquer by hand brushing the affected area, then vacuuming it.
Permanent Ink Stains
It is challenging and, sometimes, impossible to remove permanent marker stains. Several factors determine whether or not you can remove the stain, including the material, the colour of the ink, and the length of time since it was made. These are your best chances of removing a permanent marker stain on common surfaces.
You can remove a permanent ink stain from your favourite carpet by doing the following:
- First, spray non-oily hairspray or rubbing alcohol on the ink stain to dampen it.
- After lightly blotting the carpet stain, you should see the colour transfer onto the towel.
- Use a towel soaked in lukewarm water to dab the stained area.
It is important to note that this method can significantly reduce the appearance of the stain on your carpet. However, some permanent markers may remain embedded in your carpet forever.
Water-Based Ink Stains
Water-based ink can generally be removed by merely washing the stain away with plain water. Some examples are most highlighters, ink stamps, calligraphy ink and more. You can remove such a stain by mixing water and dishwashing liquid soap. Dabbing a towel in water and then dabbing it onto the stain should disappear after a few repetitions of the process.
Removing ink stains from non-washable fabrics
You might think nonwashable items like silk and wool are doomed. Unfortunately, it is also true of furniture upholstery and carpets.
Don’t despair if your pen leaks all over your carpet. But if this is your reality, don’t lose hope.
What you will need is the following:
- Paper towels
- Clean terry cloth
- Alcohol-based hairspray
Immediately spray the area stained with ink with hairspray, as hairspray acts as a solvent and loosens and dissolves the ink. Do not let the hairspray dry. The ink will set further into the fibres if you rub. This will also cause the ink to spread. Be sure to use clean paper towels or terry cloth. Dab, blot, dab, blot. Avoid rubbing. This will result in more ink setting and spreading on the surface. Continue doing this process until the stain is completely gone.
Rules to follow
It can be challenging to remove ink stains from carpets, but it is possible if you follow these tips:
- When you see an ink stain, blot it with a clean, white cloth as soon as possible. The sooner you act, the easier it will be to remove.
- Before using any cleaning solution on the carpet, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not cause any damage or discolouration.
- Cleaning solutions such as rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and dish soap can remove ink stains. Apply the cleaning solution directly to the stain, then blot it with a clean cloth.
- Ensure that all remaining cleaning solution is removed by rinsing with water thoroughly. Then, blot with a clean cloth to dry, and repeat the process as needed until the stain is removed.
- Consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner if the ink stain is particularly stubborn or if you feel uncomfortable removing it yourself.
What damage can ink stains cause
Some potential damages that ink stains can cause to carpets depend on the type of ink and the time it has been on the carpet.
- Discolouration: Stains and discolourations caused by ink can leave unsightly marks on carpets.
- Texture changes: There can be differences in the texture of a carpet in areas where permanent ink penetrates deep into fibres, causing them to become stiff or crunchy.
- Carpet deterioration: Ink stains can weaken carpet fibres over time, resulting in faster wear and tear.
- Odours: If ink stains are not properly removed, they can leave behind a persistent smell that is difficult to eliminate.
- Health hazards: Chemicals contained in some types of ink can pose health hazards when inhaled or absorbed through the skin, especially for babies, pets, and those with respiratory disorders.
Conclusion
If you take the right approach, you can remove ink stains from carpets in order to minimise damage and successfully remove the stain, act quickly to blot up as much ink as possible, test cleaning solutions, and repeat the process as required. Using natural cleaning products such as white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, ink stains can be removed, while professional carpet cleaners can be called upon for stubborn stains. Consider using a carpet protector spray and avoiding harsh chemicals or excessive scrubbing to prevent future ink stains. Remember that it is better to call a carpet cleaning service to deal with the mess in certain situations instead of you.
