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How to Remove Ink With Toothpaste and Water

Cristel Wood

Numerous chemicals and soaps on the market advertise how well they can remove ink stains from garments. If you're looking for an inexpensive, natural alternative to chemicals and soaps that could potentially damage your garment while removing stains, use white toothpaste and water.

Brushing teeth is not the only use for toothpaste.
  1. Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the ink stain. Use a paste-based dentifrice rather than a gel. Avoid artificial colors or sparkles. Natural toothpaste works the best.

  2. Rub the toothpaste into a stain on fabric. You can use your fingers or an old toothbrush, or fold the stained cloth in half and rub the two halves together.

  3. Rinse the cloth with cool water. You can hold it under a faucet or run it through a washing machine.

  4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 as necessary. It might take several tries to remove the stain completely.

  5. Rub a little toothpaste on ink-stained skin, rinse with cool water, and repeat as necessary.