How to remove an ink stain from your couch

Maybe you’ve been there.

Discovering an ink stain on your beautiful couch will sink you to your knees. Either that or you’ll be screaming the names of your children one by one so you can get to the bottom of it. 

Who did it doesn’t matter though. It’s too late for that. Whether it’s a pen leaking or a little artist in the making, ink stains, no matter what kind, can be a homeowner’s nightmare. 

But don’t worry. In all the years I’ve been a professional couch and upholstery cleaner on Long Island in New York, I haven’t met an ink stain I couldn’t remove. And I’m here to give you some tips on how to do it yourself!

First, Identify the Couch Fabric Type

Proper identification of couch fabric is crucial for applying the correct cleaning methods and it’s the first thing I do.  Look for any manufacturer’s tags or instructions you may have gotten when you purchased your couch that might indicate the material. 

These Are the Cleaning Codes You’ll Be Looking for: 

• W for water-based cleaners
• S for solvent-based cleaners
• WS for either
• X for vacuum-only cleaning

Understanding these codes is essential as it ensures that the chosen cleaning approach is perfectly aligned with the material’s specific needs, thereby preventing damage and extending the life of your couch.

If such information is not available, understanding the basic characteristics of different fabrics can provide clues. Natural fibers may require specific cleaning agents to avoid damage, while synthetic fibers can often withstand stronger cleaning solutions.

Test Cleaning Solution on a Hidden Area

Before applying any cleaning solution to a visible part of your couch, it’s crucial to test it on a hidden area. This step ensures the solution won’t damage or discolor the fabric. Choose a spot that’s out of sight, such as underneath the couch or behind a cushion.

Apply a small amount of the cleaning solution, then wait for it to dry completely. Check the test spot for any adverse reactions like discoloration or damage to the fabric. This precautionary measure helps maintain the integrity of your couch’s appearance and prevents potential harm from cleaning agents.

Apply Cleaning Solution to the Ink Stain

After ensuring the cleaning solution is safe on a hidden area, apply it directly to the ink stain. For leather couches, use rubbing alcohol or a specialized leather cleaner to gently dab the stain. On fabric couches, a mixture of dish soap and water can be effective, or rubbing alcohol for more stubborn stains.

For microfiber couches, opt for a white vinegar and water solution. Use a clean cloth to apply the chosen solution, blotting gently rather than rubbing to avoid spreading the ink. This approach aims to lift the stain from the fabric while minimizing the risk of damage or further staining.

For Leather Couches

• Use rubbing alcohol or leather cleaner: These solutions are specifically formulated to break down the ink without harming the leather’s surface. If you’re dealing with a stubborn Sharpie stain, try WD-40. 

For Fabric Couches

• Use a dish soap and water mixture: This gentle solution can lift the ink from the fabric.
• For more stubborn stains, use rubbing alcohol: It’s effective in dissolving ink, even permanent ink like Sharpies, ensuring a deeper clean without damaging the fabric.

For Microfiber Couches

• Use a white vinegar and water solution: Ideal for microfiber, this mixture cleans effectively while maintaining the integrity of the couch’s material.

Blot the Stain Gently with a Clean Cloth

After applying the cleaning solution, blot the stain gently using a clean, dry cloth. This action is crucial to lift the ink from the couch fabric without spreading it. It’s important to dab gently rather than rub, as rubbing can embed the stain deeper into the fabric.

Continue blotting with fresh areas of the cloth until no more ink transfers onto it. This method works effectively across all couch fabrics, including leather, fabric, and microfiber, ensuring the stain is removed with minimal risk of damage.

Here’s an example of how to do the blotting: