How to Get Permanent Marker From Your Clothes
You are rocking your favorite shirt, feeling like a style icon, and then BAM. Permanent marker appears like it was painted there by a modern artist who hates your wardrobe. Permanent marker is easy to get on clothes and tough to get off. But do not panic, with a few clever tricks and some basic supplies you can usually get that stubborn mark out.
Why Permanent Marker Is So Annoying
Permanent marker really means permanent only on paper. On fabric it just gets stuck in the fibers. Unlike water based markers or washable markers, it does not come out with water alone. The ink contains solvents that bind tightly to the cloth. So taking it out takes a little strategy and a little patience.
Step 1 Start With Hairspray or Alcohol
Many stain removers focus on breaking down the ink so it can lift out of the fabric. Two common household products that can work for this are hairspray or rubbing alcohol.
Here is what to do:
Place a clean towel or paper towel under the stained area. This keeps the ink from spreading to the other side of the fabric.
Spray hairspray generously on the stain or pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol on it. These products help dissolve the marker ink.
Let it sit for a few minutes so the ink starts to loosen.
Blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. You should see some ink transfer to the towel.
Keep blotting and applying more hairspray or alcohol until the marker stops lifting.
Be careful with colored fabrics. Test the product on an inside seam or hidden area first to make sure it does not remove color.
Step 2 Use a Liquid Laundry Detergent
Once you have lifted as much marker as you can with hairspray or alcohol, it is laundry time. Put a liquid laundry detergent directly on the stained spot. Gently rub it in with your fingers or a soft brush so the detergent can work on breaking up the stain.
Let the detergent sit for 5 to 10 minutes before washing. This gives the soap time to surround the bits of marker that are still clinging to the fabric.
Then wash the garment in the warmest water the fabric care label allows. If the marker is still visible after washing do not dry the item yet. Heat from the dryer can make the stain permanent. Instead repeat the treatment steps and wash again.
Step 3 Try a Stain Remover Pen or Paste
If hairspray and alcohol are not cutting it, a stain remover pen or paste from the laundry aisle can help. Many of these products are made specifically for ink stains. Use the pen or paste according to the instructions on the package. Usually this means applying it to the stain, letting it sit for a short time, and then washing as usual.
Step 4 For Tough or Old Stains
Sometimes the marker has been sitting for a while and has set deeper into the fabric. In those cases a more intensive approach might be needed. A mixture of equal parts baking soda and water can create a paste that helps lift what is left behind. Apply the paste to the stain, let it dry, and then brush off and wash.
Another option is to look for a laundry product that contains enzymes or oxygen based cleaning agents. These products help break down stubborn stains that regular soap does not remove.
What Not to Do
There are a few laundry mistakes that can make marker stains worse. Do not put the garment in the dryer until you are sure the stain is gone. Heat sets stains and makes them much harder to remove. Do not rub vigorously with a brush or cloth. Harsh scrubbing can damage the fabric. And do not use bleach on colored fabrics unless the care label specifically says it is safe to do so.
When You Want Someone Else To Handle It
Not everyone loves playing a stain detective. If marker stains make you want to throw in the towel or if you have a whole pile of clothes that need attention, that is where Get Fresh Start Laundry can help.
Here is how we handle permanent marker and all kinds of tough stains for you:
We pick up your clothes right from your home so you do not have to drag stain covered shirts to the laundromat.
We use professional grade detergents and cleaning techniques that are more powerful than most home methods.
We treat each garment according to fabric type and stain type so you get the best results possible.
We make sure your clothes come back clean, fresh, and ready to wear without lingering ink or smell.
Instead of spending an afternoon scrubbing at marker stains, you can let our team take care of the hard work and enjoy your free time.
Final Thoughts
Permanent marker on clothes feels unfair but it is not unbeatable. With some simple products from home and a little patience you can usually bring your garment back to life. And if you would rather skip the soap and scrubbing, Get Fresh Start Laundry is ready to make all your laundry challenges disappear.
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