How To Remove Ink Stains From Fabric Sofas?

How To Remove Ink Stains From Fabric Sofas?

Feb 6, 2024 | Upholstery Cleaning

Ink stain on your beautiful fabric sofa may feel like the end of the world, but it isn’t. There are still ways to preserve the beauty of your couch and remove ink stains from fabric sofas, and in this blog, we will discuss the three most effective ones.

Before Starting

Read the care label on your upholstered couch before using any cleaner on it. Look for the cleaning code (W, S, W/S, or X) to know what solutions are suitable for your fabric.

Don’t start upholstery cleaning without reading the cleaning instructions, as it can lead to irreversible damage to the fabric.

Three Ways To Remove Ink Stains From Fabric Sofas

1. Dishwashing Detergent Method

If the ink stain on your couch is recent, blot it with a clean microfiber cloth. Apply pressure on the cloth to transfer the stain from the sofa to the rag. Avoid rubbing, as that can set the stain deeper into the fabric.

Then, mix ½ teaspoon liquid dish soap and a small amount of hot water. Stir the solution to form suds and dip a cloth into it. Wipe the ink stain with the solution in a gentle, circular motion.

Reapply and wipe till you remove the stain. Next, rinse the area with cold water and dry it with a clean towel.

2. Rubbing Alcohol Method

Similar to the dish soap solution, you’ll need to act quickly and blot the stain to prevent it from causing additional damage. Start from the outside while blotting and work your way towards the center. Replace the cloth when it gets saturated.

Test rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) on a small, hidden spot on the couch to look for signs of fading and discoloration. Stop using rubbing alcohol if you spot any signs of bleaching and discoloration.

Pour a bit of alcohol into a cloth and dab the ink stain with it. Change the cloth when it gets too saturated and reapply alcohol if it evaporates. Repeat till you remove the stain.

Dip a cloth dipped in water, wipe the area to remove any excess alcohol, and dry it with a clean rag.

3. Vinegar Method

The final method is using the trusty vinegar solution. So start by blotting the stain and removing as much ink as possible. Then, test vinegar on an inconspicuous part of the sofa.

If vinegar works, then proceed to the next step. Add 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water in a bowl. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution and blot the stained area with it.

Let the solution sit for 30 minutes and act on the ink stain. During these 30 minutes, continue blotting the stain in a 5-minute interval. Then, wet a cloth with clean water and wipe the excess solution. Don’t let the water sit on your sofa for long, as it can lead to dangerous white mold on your furniture.

Bottom Line

You don’t need to panic if ink stains your fabric sofa. You can tackle the stain with either dishwashing detergent, rubbing alcohol, or a vinegar solution. But whatever solution you use, test it first to avoid negative consequences.

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