How to Get Permanent Marker Out of Clothing

How to Get Permanent Marker Out of Clothing
Published: Feb 2, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

If you treat permanent marker stains as soon as possible after they occur and you use the right combination of techniques and cleaning products, you have a good chance of removing the ink stain and restoring the appearance of your clothing item.

Things You Will Need

  • White cloths
  • Hairspray
  • Rubbing alcohol
  1. Place the clothing item on top of a clean, white cloth with the stained side facing upward. Use a cloth that you don't mind getting stained.

  2. Spray the stain with hairspray to dampen it thoroughly.

  3. Fold over the white cloth and press it onto the stain to blot up the moisture and ink. Continue blotting until no more ink is being transferred to the cloth.

  4. Moisten another cloth with cool water and dab the stained area.

  5. Blot the area once more with a dry cloth.

  6. Moisten another cloth with rubbing alcohol and dab it onto the stained area if any ink is remaining.

  7. Blot the alcohol with a dry cloth.

The Drip Cap

  • The term "permanent" can make you upset when this type of marker stains your clothing.
  • Fortunately, not all permanent marker stains are impossible to remove.
  • Moisten another cloth with cool water and dab the stained area.

Photo Credits

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Alexandra Barry/Demand Media

Charlotte Johnson

Charlotte Johnson is a musician, teacher and writer with a master's degree in education. She has contributed to a variety of websites, specializing in health, education, the arts, home and garden, animals and parenting.

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