Quck answer
To remove highlighter stains from a couch, follow these steps:
1. Blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth to remove as much of the excess ink as possible.
2. Mix a solution of dish soap and warm water.
3. Dip a clean cloth into the soapy solution and gently dab the stain, working from the outside towards the center.
4. Continue blotting until the stain starts to fade.
5. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry.
6. If the stain remains, apply rubbing alcohol to a cloth and gently dab the stain.
7. Blot with a clean cloth to remove any remaining ink and alcohol.
8. Repeat the process until the stain is gone.
9. Allow the area to air dry.
Remember to always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the couch before applying it to the stain.
While your couch may be the center of attention in the room, you probably don’t want it to be highlighted literally. Placing a pillow or a throw blanket strategically can temporarily cover stray highlighter stains, but you can permanently remove these marks from your couch once you understand the composition of highlighters and the material of your couch.
Tips for Removing Highlighter Stains in General
Most highlighters get their vibrant color from a dye compound called fluorescein. The good news is that the ink in highlighters is water soluble, not oil-based. This means you have a much better chance of removing unwanted highlighter marks with a gentle cleanser.
However, it is important to know the material of your couch before applying any cleanser. Regardless of how confident you are in the reaction of the cleanser, always perform a spot test in an inconspicuous area before applying it to the highlighter stain.
Removing Highlighter Stains from Leather
Since highlighter marks are water soluble, you should be able to remove them with a few household ingredients. Wet a sponge with a mild nondetergent soap and room-temperature water. Gently rub the sponge onto the highlighter mark. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any soap suds and residue. Finish by drying the area with a soft cloth.
Keep in mind that some couches, whether leather or made of fibers, come with designations like “S,” “W,” and “S/W.” “S” means you should avoid water-based cleaning methods like the one mentioned above. This material requires the use of dry solvents or a trip to the dry cleaner. “W” material cannot be cleaned with solvents, only water-based shampoos. And “S/W” means that both solvents and water-based cleansers can be used. If you are unsure about your couch’s designation, contact the manufacturer.
Cleaning Polyester, Wool, and Nylon
If your couch is made of a blend of polyester, nylon, and wool, you can use the same stain removal method that you would use on carpet, which is often made of the same materials. Start by using an ink spot remover of your choice. Apply the spot remover on a cloth and blot it onto the highlighted area. Using a white cloth will allow you to see how much ink you are removing and prevent color transfer. You may need to blot with medium pressure until the area is saturated with the remover.
Using a portable vacuum or the hose attachment of your vacuum, vacuum over the cleansed area to pick up any remaining color. Repeat this process until the stain is completely gone.
Removing Highlighter Stains from Microfiber
As always, check the cleaning code specified for your microfiber couch. If it is designated as “S” and should not be treated with water, use rubbing alcohol instead. Fill a spray bottle with rubbing alcohol and spray it directly onto the highlighter stain. To prevent color transfer, use a white cloth to blot the stain. Continue blotting until the stain disappears. Once dry, use a soft-bristle brush to comb out any stiffness in the microfiber.
To clean a microfiber couch marked with a “W”, use a gentle soap and water mixture. Gently dab the solution onto the highlighted area using a white cloth until it becomes saturated. Then, use a clean, damp cloth to remove the soap residue. Repeat these steps as needed until the highlighter stain is completely removed.
