Does Sharpie Wash Out of Clothes?
Sharpie markers have a reputation for being permanent, but when it comes to clothes, the answer isn’t so clear! Whether or not you can get a Sharpie wash stain out of clothing will depend on several key factors.
Fabric Type
The chances of being able to remove a Sharpie stain from fabric will depend on the material it’s made of.
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- Cotton & Linen: You may be able to remove a Sharpie stain from these materials relatively easily. Use a pre-treatment spray, like Shout, and then throw the garment in the washing machine. However, there’s no guarantee that the stain will come out.
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- Synthetic Fibers: Sharpie wash can be especially difficult to remove from fabrics like nylon and polyester. You may need to use rubbing alcohol to remove the stain. Test it out on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure that it won’t damage the fabric.
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- Delicate Fabrics: If you have a garment made of delicate fabrics, like silk, the ink may have already set into the fabric and won’t be removable. In this case, it’s best to take the garment to a professional cleaner.
Ink Type
Not all Sharpies are created equal! Generally, Sharpie’s “Stain Brush” markers are designed to stay in place on fabrics, so those stains may be harder to remove. Try using a rubbing alcohol solution, similar to what you’d use on synthetic fabrics.
Conclusion
Sharpie wash markers can be a tricky foe when it comes to removing stains from clothes. Your best bet is to pre-treat the stain with a stain remover as soon as possible and follow the steps that fit the fabric type and type of marker. If all else fails, take it to a professional cleaner.