Ballpoint Ink on Cotton & Clothing

Medium·⏱ 10–20 min

  1. Place a paper towel under the stain to absorb ink from below.

  2. Dab rubbing alcohol generously onto the stain — you'll see ink transfer to the cloth.

  3. Change to a clean section of cloth and continue dabbing. The ink should lift progressively.

  4. Apply dish soap, work in gently, rinse with cold water.

  5. Machine wash cold.

What you'll need

  • Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl 70%)
  • Dish soap
  • Clean cloths
  • Paper towels

Common mistakes to avoid

  • ✗Never use hot water — heat sets ink pigments.
  • ✗Don't rub — rubbing spreads ink into surrounding fibres.
  • ✗Avoid water before alcohol — water can fix ink pigments.

Pro tip

Hand sanitiser (the gel type, which is mostly isopropyl alcohol) works in a pinch and is usually what people have immediately available.

Always check the garment's care label and test any solution on a hidden area first. StainsGone provides general household guidance, not professional textile or restoration advice.