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How to Remove Ink Stains from Suede


by DoItYourself Staff

what you'll need

  • Nylon brush
  • 70% Isopropyl alcohol
  • Cotton swabs
  • Emery board
  • Clean cloth
  • Eraser
  • Hairspray

When you remove ink stains from suede, which is one of the most expensive piece of fabric, you have to remember that you do not need water in your suede-saving techniques. Many people have tried to apply the techniques that are only good for removing food stains from cotton fabric. However, suede is of different material and should be treated differently from the rest of your upholstery or clothings. Here is the ultimate guide for you on how you can save your suede clothing, shoe or furniture if it is stained by ink. This article will also showcase some conventional and unique ways to treat your suede material.

Step 1 – Brush the Ink Stain Away

You may remove ink stains from your suede material by continuously brushing it off with your stiff nylon brush. Keep going until you can finally notice that the ink stain has been lifted off. However, if this does not work, although this is the best way to resolve the issue, you can try other alternative methods that are commonly used by others.

Step 2 – Use Rubbing Alcohol

If the ink stain is not remedied by merely brushing the suede with your nylon brush, try soaking some alcohol on your cotton swabs and dab the ink stain. You may notice that the ink will transfer on the cotton. If the stain is a little bigger and new, put a piece of clean cloth on the underside of the fabric so as not to spread the stain. Pour a small amount of alcohol directly on the stain and dab as well as rub the cotton on it. Continue doing this until there is no more ink transferred on the cotton. If this does not work, try the next step.

Step 3 – Sand it off with an Emery Board

You can use either an emery board or a small piece of course sandpaper. Gently rub the ink of with the sand paper or emery board until you can no longer see the ink stain. Do this technique gently so as not to damage your suede fabric.

Step 4 – Erase It Off

You can also remove ink stains from suede using an eraser, especially if the ink stain is simply a single line from a ball pen. Gently rub the eraser until the stain is removed.

Step 5 – Cheap Hairspray May Help

Cheap hairsprays usually have high alcohol content. By spraying hairspray on your suede cloth, then rubbing the stain off with a clean piece of cloth, you may be able to remove the stain. Just rub gently so as not to damage the cloth.

Step 6 – Professional Cleaner

This step should be considered the last resort since it will cost you quite a lot if you have to let the professional cleaner remove the stain. To save your suede, try all the alternative methods listed above prior to getting assistance from the professionals. You may be able to remove the stain using your own household materials and get to save your time, money and effort as well.

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