Permanent Marker on Cotton & Clothing

Hard·⏱ 15–30 min

  1. Place multiple paper towels behind the stain to catch ink.

  2. Apply 91%+ isopropyl alcohol generously — higher concentration is much more effective than 70%.

  3. Press a clean cloth onto the stain and hold for 30 seconds.

  4. Dab repeatedly with fresh cloth sections. Ink will transfer slowly.

  5. Apply dish soap, work in, rinse cold. Repeat alcohol treatment if needed.

  6. Machine wash cold. Permanent marker rarely comes out 100% in one pass — repeat if needed.

What you'll need

  • Rubbing alcohol (91% or higher)
  • Dish soap
  • Paper towels
  • Hair spray (optional)

Common mistakes to avoid

  • ✗Don't expect a single treatment to fully remove permanent marker — multiple passes are normal.
  • ✗Avoid water before alcohol.
  • ✗Don't use bleach unless fabric is white — it won't remove marker effectively anyway.

Pro tip

Rubbing alcohol concentration matters enormously for permanent marker: 91%+ vs 70% isopropyl is a significant difference in effectiveness.

⚠ Warning

Permanent marker may not fully come out of fabric. Manage expectations and consider fabric dye as a last resort.

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.