A pen in your pocket can break, causing the ink to spill into your trousers and leak onto the car seat. Likewise, your children may treat your car seat as a doodling canvas. Fortunately, ink stain removal is possible with the right knowledge and supplies.
Facts About Ink Stains
Ink consists of a combination of dyes, pigments, and solvents that can cause permanent discoloration on most fabrics. This is why immediate treatment is necessary. Once the stain dries, restoration will require professional remediation.
The removal process is also a bit trickier because we’re dealing with an inorganic stain. This contrasts with organic stains like those made by food or spilled coffee, which are easier to remove. Nevertheless, it can be done if you act immediately using the steps below.
There are two separate processes. One for leather seats and the other for fabrics.
Step-by-step Ink Stain Removal Process
Leather Upholstery
- Blot at the stain using a clean cloth or paper towel. The keyword here is “blot.” Do not scrub because this will only spread the stain.
- Apply an ink stain remover. Several options are available here, including baking soda, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, and nail polish remover.
- Wipe using a fresh cloth.
- Apply a leather conditioner to the seat. This acts as a barrier that prevents liquids from embedding themselves into the surface.
Fabric Upholstery
- Blot at the stain using a clean cloth
- Dab at the stain using a cloth lightly moistened with rubbing alcohol
- Rinse using a cloth moistened with cold water
Leave the Ink Stain Removal to Us
The year is still young. Make a resolution to take better care of your car. This includes regular car washes and the occasional vehicle detail. Leave the ink stain removal to Henry’s Auto Detail if DIY treatment yields subpar results.
Car Upholstery Stain Removal
Serving Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mill Creek, Woodway and all of South Snohomish & North King Counties