House Cleaning and Stain Removal Forum

[sami]

Hello there,

Can you please give me me some tips if possible about removing ballpoint pen writing (Black) from paper without damaging the paper or leaving trace.

Thanks.

[mrscleannw]

Hello Sami,

We have researched this on the internet and came across a few mentions of removing ink text from paper.

There are different types of ink so it depends on what type of ink was in the pen. Removing the ink will depend on the solvent and vehicles used in the ink (which is similar to those in paint).

There are also different paper types. Some papers can be lightweight and damage more easily to any cleaning methods you try and others more heavyweight that may be able to withstand a more thorough cleaning such as what you are seeking help for.

Here is what we have found out for you.

Baking Soda and Water:
1. Combine baking soda with water until you have a thin paste.
2. Using a clean white cotton cloth, dip this in the paste and apply it to the ink on the paper.
3. Rub or dab gently so you don’t damage the paper.
4. Allow the paper to dry.

If the above steps does not work or did not remove enough you can try the process again or try one of the suggestions below:

You can try acetone, this will work with most types of ink and can be purchased at your local home improvement store or if you only need a small amount you can purchase non-acetone fingernail polish remover.
You could also try ammonia then rinse with water.
Another option may be to use bleach then soak well in water to remove all traces of the bleach as it may leave a yellow discoloration. Do not combine the bleach and ammonia as this can create a harmful gas.

To apply any of these solutions follow step 3 above, just beware you will run the risk of damaging your paper.

If this is paperwork that cannot be redone, you may want to seek a professional who knows about restoring artwork or old papers for more advice.

Mrs. Clean

[sami]

Many thanks Mrs. Clean, i would try those let you know the result in the due course.

[sami]

I have tried the acetone method first but realised that the ink is Pigmented ballpoint pen ink which looks like went into the fibre of the paper unlike the Dye based ink hence the acetone method not work.

[mrscleannw]

Hello again sami,

If it is still possible, give the ammonia a try. Let us know how this works.

Mrs. Clean

[mold removal tampa]

you post such a great information .... thank you for posting .... !!
can you tel me how to ballpoint pen removal from leather...

thank you

[mrscleannw]

Hello mold removal tampa,

Leather is a very versatile fabric and comes from many sources, so what works well on some leathers, may not work on other types of leather.

Ink stains can be difficult to remove and can sometimes be permanent. It's important to get to the stain as quickly as possible. The longer it sits, the more permanent it will become as it soaks into the fabric. That being said we don't always notice a stain until days later.

Not knowing your type of leather or how long the ink stain has been on your leather product it may be best to take your leather to a professional (if it's clothing) or if that can't be done then have one come out to your home to clean the leather.

If you want to give it a try yourself first read the label and see if the manufacturer has recommended any specific cleaners. Also test in an inconspicuous spot prior to cleaning the stain.

You might try a commercial grade leather product for stain removal. These types of products will remove the stain from your leather without damaging it and will provide a protective layer on your leather to help in the prevention of damaging the leather in the future.

For your typical leather products (non-suede types) - if the stain is fresh
blot the stain with a cotton ball or clean cloth. Then wash the area with water using a circular motion using saddle soap. Use a clean, dry cloth to dry the surface.

You could also try acetone free nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol. Either wet a cotton ball or dip a cotton swab in the solution. Dab at the ink stain and you will start to see the ink transfer to the cotton. Gently keep working the area until the stain is gone. Do not scrub or rub too hard or use too much as you may spread the ink and damage the leather. When the stain has been removed treat with a leather conditioner.

Again test in an inconspicuous spot first.

Mrs. Clean