Indelible ink is difficult to remove from smooth surfaces, but despite the name it is by no means indelible. You can remove the stains from most markers of this type with normal household substances, such as vinegar or toothpaste. Before moving on to more aggressive solutions, such as bleach or nail polish remover, try them on a hidden area of the object you want to clean; if they damage the surface, find an alternative.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Using Delicate Products
Step 1. Clean the area with vinegar
Dampen a rag with distilled or cleaning vinegar and use it to scrub the surface of the stain several times.
This technique is effective in getting rid of indelible ink on smooth stoves
Step 2. Use toothpaste
Squeeze the tube to take a pea-sized dose of toothpaste, place it on a napkin or paper towel, and scrub the stained area with vigorous strokes. Once the ink is gone, get rid of any residue with a damp rag and finish the job with a dry cloth.
- For stubborn stains, apply the toothpaste and let it sit for 5 minutes before rubbing it off.
- Toothpastes with baking soda are more effective, while gel toothpastes do not lead to any results.
- Use this remedy to clean the wood, TV, dishes, and painted walls.
Step 3. Try wet wipes
They are moist, slightly soapy and therefore perfect for removing indelible ink from smooth surfaces; take one from the container and rub it gently on the area to be cleaned.
This product is more suitable when you need to clean your TV or computer monitor
Step 4. Use a special product
There are many specific detergents to eliminate indelible ink. Directions for use vary depending on the product itself, but typically you need to apply it to the stain and scrub with kitchen paper or a clean rag.
You can do some research online to find the most suitable cleaner for the surface you need to treat, or you can ask the clerk at your local household goods store
Step 5. Try melamine foam
This product, commonly known as "magic eraser", is widely used to remove ink stains from smooth surfaces. It is used exactly like a sponge: just wet it, squeeze it and rub it on the area to be cleaned.
- If it proves ineffective on its own, try going over the stain with a whiteboard marker and then use the magic eraser.
- This solution is perfect for painted walls.
Method 2 of 2: Use More Aggressive Solutions
Step 1. Use denatured alcohol
Soak a cloth with cleaning alcohol and use it to rub the area to be treated; after removing most of the ink, scrape off the rest with a sponge dampened with water or other alcohol.
- You may need to repeat the process a few times and some traces of color may remain.
- If you don't have denatured alcohol on hand, you can replace it with a hard alcohol, such as vodka.
Step 2. Spray some hair spray
Choose a product that has a high alcohol content and spread it on the area to be cleaned; wipe with a damp cloth or kitchen paper. It may take several attempts.
This method is effective for cleaning walls, leather and tiles
Step 3. Use the WD-40
To remove the permanent marker from smooth surfaces, spray a little lubricant on the kitchen paper and rub it on the area to be treated with delicate horizontal movements; repeat if necessary.
This remedy is particularly effective on glass, plates and smooth furniture
Step 4. Clean the area with nail polish remover
Wet some paper towels or a cotton ball with the liquid and rub the stain with gentle horizontal movements. Finish the treatment by removing any solvent residue with a wet cloth.
- Only use nail polish remover that does not contain perfumes or additives.
- This technique is effective for cleaning kitchen countertops.
- Do not use solvent on smooth painted surfaces as it may remove the color.
Step 5. Blot the area with bleach
Dampen an old rag or kitchen paper with bleach and scrub the surface carefully.
- Do not use this substance on smooth painted objects as it may remove the color.
- Wear sturdy rubber gloves when handling it, as it irritates the skin.
