Keeping the household clean is no easy task, especially when it comes to printer ink that stains your carpets. You could drop the ink cartridge by accident or some ink spilled out when refilling the cartridges and it just might happen that the ink cartridge is cracked causing the ink to leak down to the carpet. Worry not, we're going to provide you on how you can remove the ink stains from your carpet.
Follow these steps to remove ink stains on carpet.
- Start by blotting the stain with a clean, dry cloth. Do not rub, as this will only spread the stain.
- If the blotting doesn't remove the stain, you can try using a mild soap. Work the soap into the stain with your fingers, then blot again with a clean cloth.
- If the soap doesn't work, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution. You can make your own by mixing one part vinegar with two parts water. Apply the solution to the stain and blot again.
- If nothing else works, you can try using a carpet cleaner. Please test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area of the carpet first to make sure it won't damage the fibers.
- Once the stain is removed, rinse the area with clean water and blot dry.
You can use the following to help remove ink stains.
- Rubbing Alcohol.
Pour a small amount on the stain or on a cloth and start to wipe the stain from the corner then inward with a dabbing motion with the cloth. On the center of the stain, soak the cloth a little more to absorb the ink’s pigment.
Change the cloth when it is full of ink to prevent it from going back. If you don’t have alcohol at your home you can use hairspray as an alternative because it also contains alcohol.
- Oxy Clean
Mix one part of oxy-clean and alcohol in a bowl then dip a clean cloth and dab the stain until the stain starts to fade, replacing the cloth every time it’s filled with ink. When the stain is almost gone dab a clean water with clean cloth to remove the excess cleaning solution to residue to avoid attracting more dirt. Now use a dry cloth to absorb excess fluids then let it dry at room temperature, you can use a fan and put dry cloth to the wet area to speed up drying. Lastly, vacuum the area to remove tiny dirt that’s left and restore the carpet’s fibers to shape.
- Ammonia
The best way to get rid of ink stains is by using ammonia. You can also try this method, but before following the directions make sure it works for your specific type and model printer because there are some inks that won't work with other methods such as detergent or club soaking overnight-so check first!
- Use a spray bottle and fill it to half point.
- Add a tablespoon of ammonia
- Spray the solution not too close to the carpet to avoid damage. And then put damp cloth on the stained part.
- Clean the area with dry cloth.
If you're having trouble removing the stain on your own, consider contacting a professional carpet cleaner for help. They will have access to powerful cleaning solutions that are safe and effective for your carpet material. With the right tools and techniques, you can get your carpet looking like new again.