To remove an ink stain from clothing, act before the garment is washed or dried. Heat and rubbing can make the mark harder to lift.
The safest method depends on the ink and fabric, so begin gently and check the care label.
Place a clean white cloth or several paper towels beneath the stained area. This absorbs transferred ink and prevents it from reaching another layer of fabric.
Test any product on a hidden seam first. Stop if the color changes, the fibers weaken or the finish becomes dull.
Press a clean white cloth against fresh ink. Work from the outer edge toward the center so the stain does not spread.
For water-based ink, hold the reverse side under cool running water. This encourages the ink to move out through the path it entered.
Cover the mark with a small amount of liquid laundry detergent. Leave it for 10 minutes, then gently press the fabric together. Do not scrub delicate fibers.
Rinse thoroughly in cool water. Repeat the detergent treatment if the mark is fading but still visible.
Wash according to the care label, then air-dry. Check the area before using a tumble dryer or iron because heat can set remaining ink.
Take silk, wool, acetate, dry-clean-only garments or valuable clothing to a professional cleaner. Permanent marker and old stains may also require specialist treatment.
Quick blotting, cool water and patience give washable clothing the best chance of recovery. Always protect the fabric first and avoid heat until the stain has disappeared.