How to Remove Ink From Raw Lumber

How to Remove Ink From Raw Lumber
Written By
John Smith
John Smith
Published: Jan 26, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Bleach

Step 1

Create a solution of 1 part water and 1 part of regular household bleach.

Step 2

Dip a rag into the solution. Rub the solution into the ink mark on the wood.

Step 3

Allow the solution to sit for five minutes.

Step 4

Remove the ink with a scrub brush. Scrub in the direction of the wood grain.

Step 5

Rinse the wood with clear water. Allow it to dry completely.

Sanding

Step 1

Pour paint thinner onto a rag. Rub the paint thinner into the ink marking with the rag.

Advertisement

Step 2

Allow the paint thinner to soak into the ink for 10 minutes.

Step 3

Sand the lumber in the direction of the grain with a palm or hand sander and fine-grit sandpaper. .

Step 4

Wipe the area clean with a damp rag.

Borax

Step 1

Mix a solution of borax and water. Dip a rag into the solution and rub it onto the ink mark.

Step 2

Allow the solution to soak into the lumber for five minutes.

Step 3

Scrub the moistened area in the direction of the wood's grain, using a scrub brush, to remove the ink.

Step 4

Rinse the area with clear water and allow it to dry.

Tips

You might be able to remove the ink with paint thinner and a steel wool pad if the ink is only on the surface.

Borax is a common laundry cleaner.

Repeat any of the above methods multiple times for stubborn or really deep ink marks.

Warnings

Don't sand too long or too hard in the same place. You could remove more wood than you want.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

John Smith

John Smith began writing back in 2003. Smith is a technology writer currently living in Lansing, Mich. His articles have appeared in online publications including PC World and IGN, where he specializes in mobile apps for both Android and…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.