Bianca MullerWith the school holidays around the corner, many South African parents will be spending more time at home with the kids. And while holiday memories are great, finding pen marks on freshly painted walls, furniture or floors? Not so much.
Whether you’ve got a budding artist in the house or a pen that leaked where it shouldn’t have, the good news is that most ink stains can be removed with items you probably already have at home.
First things first: don’t scrub
Your first instinct might be to attack the stain with a sponge and plenty of elbow grease. Resist the urge. Scrubbing too hard can spread the ink or damage paint finishes and delicate surfaces.
Instead, start with the gentlest method and work your way up if needed.
How to get pen marks off walls
1. Try toothpaste
A small amount of white, non-gel toothpaste can work surprisingly well on pen marks.
- Apply a little toothpaste to the stain.
- Gently rub with a soft cloth.
- Leave it for a few minutes.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
This method is especially useful on painted walls with light surface marks.
2. Use rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is one of the most effective ways to dissolve ink.
- Dab a small amount onto a clean cloth.
- Gently blot the stain.
- Avoid soaking the wall.
- Wipe the area afterwards with warm, soapy water.
Always test on an inconspicuous spot first, as alcohol can affect some paint finishes.
3. Reach for a melamine sponge
Magic Eraser-style sponges can remove stubborn marks quickly.
- Lightly dampen the sponge.
- Rub gently using small circular motions.
- Stop as soon as the mark disappears.
Be careful: these sponges are mildly abrasive and can remove paint if used too aggressively.
How to remove ink from wooden furniture
A pen mark on a dining table or bedside cabinet doesn’t necessarily mean permanent damage.
Try:
- Warm water with a drop of dishwashing liquid.
- A paste made from baking soda and a little water.
- Gentle wiping rather than scrubbing.
For finished wood, always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first.
How to clean ink off plastic
Plastic toys, storage containers and desk accessories are common victims of ink stains.
A cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol or white vinegar can often lift the mark. Follow up by wiping the area with clean water.
What about floors?
For tile, vinyl or laminate flooring:
- Blot any fresh ink immediately.
- Clean with warm soapy water first.
- If needed, use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly afterwards.
Avoid harsh abrasives that could scratch the surface.
A note on hairspray
You may have heard that hairspray removes ink. While it can work because some formulas contain alcohol, modern hairsprays vary widely and may leave residue or even affect paint finishes.
If you do try it, test a hidden area first.
ALSO SEE: Tips to make your kid’s bedroom cosier this winter
