When Sharpie ink finds its way onto the wrong surfaces, you could easily assume that those materials are ruined. Sharpies are permanent markers that are used on school and work projects, for decorating, for labeling brown bag lunches and moving boxes, and more.
Despite their utility, the ink could blotch skin, fabric, walls, and other areas. The good news is that Sharpie stains can be removed with the right techniques. How do you remove Sharpie stains?
Why Sharpie Ink Is Difficult to Remove
Sharpie ink is designed to be fade-resistant. It contains special ingredients, such as surfactants, resins, pigments, and dyes. Collectively, these ingredients give the ink longer-lasting results.
While the ink is more challenging to remove than ink from other types of markers and pens, it is actually not permanent. Removing Sharpie ink is actually relatively simply when you know how to do it.
Removing Sharpie From Hard Surfaces
Hairspray can be used to lift Sharpie marker stains from many hard surfaces. Simply spray the hairspray over the stain until it is saturated.
After five minutes, dab and lift the stain using a dry paper towel. Some of the stain may remain. If this happens, repeat the process until the stain is no longer visible. Rinse the surface with water to remove the hairspray and complete the process.
Fabric & Clothing
Before attempting to remove Sharpie ink from fabric or clothing, place several paper towels underneath the material. This will prevent ink from transferring to the underlying surface while you remove the stain.
Using a clean sponge and rubbing alcohol, dab at the stain until it is lifted. Avoid oversaturating the sponge. As ink transfers to the sponge, you will need to rinse it or use another area of the sponge as you continue working.
Walls & Painted Surfaces
A Magic Eraser is a great tool to use to remove Sharpie stains from walls and painted surfaces. Be aware, however, that it can strip the paint if you apply too much pressure.
If you notice paint coming off while you work, you can stop and try another method. You can also use touch-up paint to cover any areas where paint has been removed.
Skin
Hand sanitizer works well on permanent marker stains on your skin. Apply an ample amount of hand sanitizer to the stain. Let the hand sanitizer remain on the stain for 15 minutes, but do not scrub the stain. After time has elapsed, use a paper towel to blot the stain and lift the ink. If some ink remains, repeat the process.
Carpet & Upholstery
Distilled white vinegar and liquid dish soap can be used to lift permanent marker stains from carpet and upholstery. In a bowl, combine two cups of cold water with a tablespoon of vinegar and a tablespoon of dish soap.
Use a clean sponge moistened with the cleaning solution to blot the stain. Allow the solution to remain on the stain for a minute or two. Then, use a dry paper towel to blot and lift the stain. Repeat this step until the stain is gone. After lifting the stain, rinse the carpet or upholstery with clean water.
How Do I Prevent Sharpie Stains on Clothing and Surfaces?
The most common ways Sharpie accidents happen are by dropping the marker or by making a random motion with your hand while holding the marker. These things can and do happen without any intention, so the best way to prevent them is to put the cap back on the marker immediately after using it.
Even if you only intend to put it down for a moment, such as if you need to answer the phone, replace the cap. After all, the marker could roll onto the floor or get picked up by your child or pet when you aren’t looking.
Sharpie ink is only one of many types of stains that you might assume is permanent. Regardless of the types of stains and messes that you’re dealing with, our professional cleaners at Tidyhere can help. Schedule Boston cleaning service with our team today.
