Quck answer
There are several methods you can use to remove pen ink from metal surfaces.
1. Rubbing alcohol: Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or cloth and gently rub the ink stain until it fades away.
2. Vinegar: Soak a cloth or sponge in white vinegar and dab it onto the ink stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe away the ink.
3. Toothpaste: Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to the ink stain and rub it in gently using a soft cloth. Rinse off with water.
4. Baking soda: Make a paste by mixing baking soda with water and apply it to the ink stain. Gently scrub the area with a soft cloth, then rinse off.
Remember to test any method on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire ink stain.
One of the most challenging stains to eliminate is ink. Whether it’s a pen left in a pocket that goes through a dryer or an accidental spill of ink while practicing calligraphy, you can remove ink from any metal surface using the right solvent or technique. The key is to understand that not all inks are made the same way. You may need to try different remedies until you find one that works.
Step 1
Gather the materials mentioned above for a test session. This is where you can determine what will or will not be effective. Start with the least aggressive ingredient first, as less is more in terms of being beneficial for you and the environment. Work your way through the list until you find a solution that works.
Step 2
In a 1/2 cup of water, mix 1 tbsp. of household bleach. Soak an old cotton rag in this solution and let it sit on the stain for a few minutes to test if the ink is water-based. If it is, the bleach should remove it. If not, you’ll need a different solvent. Proceed to the next step.
Step 3
Rinse off any traces of bleach from the stain and ensure it is completely dry.
Step 4
Apply a small amount of alcohol to an old cotton rag and rub the ink stain. If it works, continue until all the ink is gone. If not, proceed to the next step.
Step 5
Test another area with a non-acetone-based nail polish remover using a rag (or wait for the alcohol to dry if testing the same area—do not mix solvents!). If this doesn’t work, move on to the next step.
Step 6
Spray hairspray onto the stain until it is wet. This method is recommended in the book “Earl Proulx’s Yankee Home Hints.” Let it sit for a minute or two, then wipe it with a dry rag. If this doesn’t work, proceed to the next step.
Step 7
Apply a small amount of acetone to a rag and rub the stain, continuing until all the ink is gone. If this doesn’t work, it’s time to try a different approach.
Step 8
Rinse the ink stain to remove any remaining solvents.
Step 9
Create a paste using a gentle abrasive cleanser and a small amount of water. Use a plastic scrub pad to remove the ink. This may take some time, but it is likely to be effective in the end.
Step 10
If all else fails, try a commercial solvent designed to remove ink. These solvents are generally strong chemicals, so be sure to read and follow all safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.
