While many people believe that an ink stain is a permanent addition to a shirt or tabletop, with the right ink stain removal techniques, you can eliminate the stain from most fabric or surfaces. Before you begin to treat an ink stain, make sure you place a durable piece of fabric under the stain, or else your efforts might end up staining through the garment.
For delicate fabrics such as silk and rayon or for synthetic or wool carpeting, stain removal is not easy but it is possible. First, gently apply a dampened pad to the stain using light strokes. After sponging the ink stain, spritz the area with hair spray. This loosens the ink from the fibers. Then add a few drops of white vinegar and keep sponging the stain. Let it stand for 30 minutes while covered so the area does not dry out. Sponge again and then flush with water until stain is removed.
When an ink stain is on cotton, polyester, nylon or acrylic fabric, the method for removal is similar. Loosen the stain up with a generous application of hair spray, then soak the stained portion of fabric in a solution of 1 cup cold water, ΒΌ mild dishwashing detergent and 1 tsp. white vinegar. Let the portion of fabric soak in the mixture for at least 30 minutes. Use an absorbent pad to soak up as much ink as you can and allow it to sit on top of the stain under a weight. Exchange the absorbent pad every 15 to 20 minutes until the stain is gone and wash the item in warm (not hot) water.
For fabrics that are resistant and durable, such as denim, the ink stain can stand a little more action when treating it. Make a solution of equal parts cold water and vinegar, then soak the stain for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the stain. As you brush lightly, the stain should vanish. Wash the fabric in cold water after the ink stain removal process.
There are many ink stain removers available at stores and these are composed of chemicals and solvents that are specifically designed to loosen ink from fibers. Follow the specific directions on the packaging for stain removal and it is recommended to try the ink stain remover on an inconspicuous piece of the fabric first to test for color fastness or other effects.
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If you like to burn candles inevitably you are going to wind up with candle wax somewhere you don't want it. Whether your candle drips on your tablecloth, you spill hot wax all over your carpet, or wax leaks onto your wooden table or furniture it can be a real mess and can be difficult to clean up. |
Dripped candle wax is a pesky problem. It hardens and sets into carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes. Colored candle wax stains carpets and tablecloths. Removing candle wax from carpets, tables, tablecloths and dishes is possible with time and effort. Removing candle wax from carpeting (or upholstery) can be accomplished by first making the wax very brittle with cold. |
