Have you ever found a Sharpie stain on your favourite shirt and thought it was ruined? Permanent marker stains are frustrating and seem impossible to remove. But with the right cleaning methods and household products, you can eliminate those marks. In this article, we will guide you through easy ways to remove Sharpie from different fabrics.
Are Sharpie Marks Permanent?
Many people believe that once a Sharpie leaves a mark, it's there forever. Though marker ink is formulated to resist fading and washing because it contains pigments, resins, and alcohol-based solvents, stains on clothes can still be removed. But it depends on the fabric, the promptness with which you act on the stain and the method used to remove stains.
Methods to Remove Sharpie From Fabric
Applying Hairspray
Hairspray can help remove permanent marker stains from clothing, especially if it contains isopropyl alcohol. You can try lightening the stain by spraying a bit of aerosol hairspray on the mark, letting it sit for a few minutes and then gently washing it with laundry detergent. Make sure to handwash the item thoroughly before putting it in the washer or dryer, as garments treated with flammable substances cannot be placed directly in either.
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol works well on ink stains thanks to its isopropyl alcohol content. Always test it first on a hidden area to ensure the fabric isn’t damaged. Place a paper towel under the stain and replace it as it absorbs ink. Rinse and wash thoroughly with detergent. Be sure to hand-wash carefully and never put fabric in the washer or dryer until all alcohol is removed, as residue can be a hazard.
Using White Vinegar
White vinegar is a natural cleaner that can help remove Sharpie from fabric. Mix vinegar with water, then soak the stained fabric in the mixture. Gently press the spot with a clean cloth rather than rubbing to avoid spreading the ink. Rinse well to remove vinegar, then wash your fabric as usual. Make sure to rinse it well before putting it in the washer or dryer.
Applying Baking Soda
Baking soda can help break up ink- based stains, such as Sharpie or permanent marker. Make a paste by combining baking soda with water, then apply it directly to the stained area. Rinse thoroughly with warm water before putting it in the washer or dryer.
Using Hand Sanitiser
Hand sanitiser contains isopropyl alcohol and helps remove ink-based stains from clothes. First, test the stain-removal method on a hidden area of the garment. Place a paper towel underneath the stained spot and apply the hand sanitiser directly to the back of the fabric where the stain is located. As the ink lifts, rinse the garment thoroughly with warm water and detergent.
Tips to Consider While Treating the Sharpie Spots
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Treat stains as soon as possible, as fresh stains are easier to remove.
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Always check the garment label for the fabric type and any special washing instructions.
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Before using any stain remover, test on a hidden area of the cloth to ensure it doesn't damage or fade the colour.
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Place the stained spot face down on paper towels, then apply the stain remover on the back side. This helps remove the stain from the fabric.
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Change the paper towels whenever they get stained to avoid spreading the stain.
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If you're taking it for dry cleaning, inform the dry cleaner of the stain and fabric type.
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Do not iron stained garments, or put them in a dryer, because heat will set the stain permanently.
Conclusion
Getting Sharpie out of fabric is possible if you act quickly and use the right method. Whether it's rubbing alcohol, hairspray, or any of the other stain removers discussed above, test it on a small part of the fabric first, then proceed with the next step. Also, remember not rub the stained spot. With these simple methods,you can bring new life to your fabric and make stain removal an insignificant chore.