How to clean ballpoint pen ink from carpet

Everyone has come across a leaking pen once in their life, whether it be during school, university or work. The good news is that these stains can be removed. The first thing you need to identify is which kind of ink has leaked. Is it a water-based ink or oil-based with alcohol? Ball-point pen ink uses a synthetic colourant and an alcohol solvent in an oil based paste. Fountain pen ink is water based.

Since they are different types of ink this blog is going to focus on ballpoint pen ink and you can find the water-based ink stain removal steps on the Carpet Cleaning Tip with Dave homepage or click here.

When it comes to ink stains always remember that a wet ink stain is much easier to remove than when it has set into your carpet.

To clean ballpoint pen ink from carpet:

1. Cover the stain with cold water, keep it moist and do not allow it to dry.
2. Saturate the stain with an alcohol-based hair spray. The alcohol content in the hair spray will break up the ink. (Test the carpet in a hidden area first to make sure the hair-spray does not damage the carpet fibres)
3. Blot the stain with an absorbent paper towel as this will catch any excess.
4. Blot the stain with a rag.
5. Repeat the process until the stain is removed.
6. If ever in doubt, consult a professional dry cleaner.
   

Dave's Tip:
Never use hot water when removing ink stains. A common misconception is that using hot water will help break up the ink. This is not the case, hot water will only worsen the stain. Always use cold-water when treating an ink stain. 

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