Shoes can be made of a wide variety of materials, such as leather, nylon, polyester, and acrylic. If you have accidentally stained them with the ink of a permanent marker you can fix them using the method that is most suitable for the type of material. For example, if they are made of fabric it is better to use white wine vinegar, while if they are made of leather the most suitable product to clean them is sunscreen. Alternatively, the "magic eraser" is a great way to remove ink stains from both leather and fabric.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Use White Wine Vinegar to Remove Permanent Ink from Textile Shoes
Step 1. Prepare the cleaning solution
Pour 15 ml of white wine vinegar and 15 ml of dish soap into half a liter of cold water (15 ml is approximately one tablespoon). Stir the ingredients until you are sure they are well blended.
Step 2. Test the cleaning solution on a hidden area of fabric
Use a clean rag or cloth to apply it to an inconspicuous part of the shoe. Wait a minute, then blot the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the cleaning solution. Look at the fabric carefully to see if it is stained, if there are residues or if the colors are discolored. If you notice any unwanted effects, choose a different method for removing the permanent ink.
- Alternatively, you can test the cleaning solution on an old shoe before using it on the one in question.
- This is a universal rule: before applying any product over a large area you should test it on a small portion of the same material. It is an effective way to prevent unwanted side effects.
Step 3. Dab the cleaning solution on the ink stains
You can use a clean sponge, cloth or rag. Let the vinegar and detergent sit for 30 minutes. During this time, apply more cleaning solution every 5 minutes by tapping it on the fabric in the same way.
Step 4. Rinse the part with cold water
Soak a clean cloth or rag in cold tap water, then use it to remove the cleaning solution from the fabric by repeatedly blotting it. Continue until the ink has been completely removed. If necessary, re-wet the cloth.
- Use a new dry, clean cloth to absorb the water from the fabric until it is almost dry.
- If the stain is still visible, tap it with a clean cloth dipped in denatured alcohol until the ink is completely gone. Then remove the alcohol by dabbing the fabric with a second clean cloth soaked in cold water. Finally, use another dry one to absorb the water and dry the fabric.
Method 2 of 3: Use Sunscreen to Remove Permanent Ink from Leather Shoes
Step 1. Pour a pea-sized amount of sunscreen onto a clean cloth
It must be a white cream product; colored or spray sunscreens are not good. Use a white cloth or rag to see if the cream removes the color from the skin.
Starting with a few drops of the cream, any skin discoloration shouldn't be a problem as it will be very mild
Step 2. Rub the stain in small circular motions
Use gentle pressure to not remove the skin color. If the stained area is large, clean only small portions at a time.
As you scrub the stain, see if you need to add more cream
Step 3. Rinse with warm soapy water
Once the ink has been removed, clean the part with water and a mild soap. Use a clean cloth or rag dipped in soapy water and finally another clean, dry cloth to dry the leather.
You may need to use a nourishing leather conditioner to nourish the leather where it was treated. The function of this product is also to protect shoes from further stains
Method 3 of 3: Remove Permanent Ink from Shoes with the Magic Rubber
Step 1. Purchase the Magic Eraser
You can find it in supermarkets and stores that sell home hygiene products. It is a very effective tool in different situations and can help you remove permanent ink stains from both leather and textile shoes.
If the stain is extensive and covers both leather and fabric parts, Magic Eraser is probably your best bet
Step 2. Wet the gum
Hold it under running cold water from the tap, then squeeze it to prepare it for use. Rub the stain in small circular motions. You need to apply light but steady pressure.
Don't rub too hard. Scratching the skin or fabric with too much energy may remove the color as well as the stains
Step 3. Rinse with soap and water
Once the permanent ink has been removed, clean the part with water and a mild soap. Use a first clean cloth or rag dipped in soapy water and then another clean, dry rag to dry the leather.
Advice
- There are professional skin cleansing products that can remove indelible ink stains. You can find them by searching online.
- The sooner you take action to remove the stain, the less effort you will have to do.
Warnings
- Don't use white wine vinegar on linen or cotton.
- Do not use nail polish remover or denatured alcohol on fabrics that contain triacetate, acetate, or rayon fibers.
- Do not use lacquer or nail polish remover on your scalp or skin.
