How to remove highlighter from clothes?

Inadvertently getting highlighter pen on your clothes can be a real headache. These bright stains, especially when they're the right color, can be difficult to remove. But don't worry, we've compiled a series of practical methods to help you effectively remove highlighter stains from clothes.

How to Remove Highlighter from Clothes

1. Using Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is a powerful tool for removing highlighter pen stains. It effectively dissolves the dye in highlighter ink. Pour a small amount of alcohol onto a clean cloth or cotton ball and gently pat the stain until the stain transfers to the cloth. Be sure to work from the outside in to avoid spreading the stain.

2. Using Dishwashing Soap

Dishwashing soap effectively breaks down the oily components of highlighter ink. Apply a few drops of dishwashing soap directly to the highlighter stain and gently rub it in with your fingertips or a soft-bristled brush. Rinse with cold water. Repeat this process if the stain persists.

3. Using Vinegar and Salt

A combination of vinegar and salt is also an effective stain removal method. Mix equal parts white vinegar and salt into a paste. Apply it to the highlighter stain and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Rinse with cold water and wash the garment normally.

4. Use Lemon Juice

The citric acid in lemon juice has a natural bleaching effect. Apply fresh lemon juice to the highlighter pen stain and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Rinse with cold water and wash normally. This method is especially effective on white garments.

5. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a mild stain remover. Mix baking soda and water into a paste and apply it to the highlighter stain. Gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush, then rinse with cold water.

6. Use Toothpaste

Regular, non-gel toothpaste without bleaching ingredients can be used. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the highlighter stain and gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or an old toothbrush. Rinse with cold water.

7. Use laundry detergent

Apply laundry detergent directly to the highlighter stain and gently rub for a few minutes. Then soak the garment in cold water for about 30 minutes before washing normally.

8. Use ice cubes

When highlighter ink is water-soluble, ice cubes can help solidify the ink, making it easier to remove. Rub the ice cube over the stain, then scrape off the solidified ink.

9. Use bleach

For stubborn highlighter stains on white clothing, try bleach. However, be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area of the clothing first and follow the bleach instructions carefully.

10. Use coffee grounds

The grains of coffee grounds can act as a gentle abrasive. Apply damp coffee grounds to the highlighter stain, gently rub, and rinse. This method may work better on darker clothing.

11. Use hairspray

The alcohol in hairspray helps dissolve highlighter pen ink. Spray the hairspray on the highlighter stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth or wash normally.

12. Use a white eraser or pencil eraser

For light highlighter marks, gently rub with a white eraser; this may remove some of the ink.

13. Use salt water

Mix salt and water to make a concentrated salt solution. Soak the highlighter stain in the solution and rub gently.

14. Take vitamin C tablets

Crush a vitamin C tablet into a powder, add a little water to make a paste, and apply it to the highlighter stain. The acidity of vitamin C helps break down the ink.

15. Dry cleaning fluid

For items that can't be washed, try using dry cleaning fluid to remove highlighter stains.

How to remove highlighter marks from clothes

How to remove old highlighter stains?

Old highlighter stains may require longer soaking times and multiple attempts. Try soaking the item in rubbing alcohol or a mixture of vinegar and water for several hours before washing.

Will highlighter stain leather?

Yes, highlighter pen ink can penetrate the surface of leather, leaving difficult-to-remove stains. It's recommended to treat the stain with rubbing alcohol or leather cleaner as soon as possible.

How to remove highlighter pen from a down comforter?

For down comforters, you can use rubbing alcohol or dish soap topically, avoiding wetting large areas. For severe stains, consult a professional dry cleaner.

What if highlighter pen gets on your feet?

You can wash with soap and water or wipe with rubbing alcohol.

How to remove highlighter pen from shoes?

It depends on the material of the shoe. For canvas shoes, you can use rubbing alcohol or dish soap, while for leather shoes, you need to use a professional leather cleaner.

What kind of stain remover should I use to remove highlighter pen stains?

The most effective stain removers usually contain alcohol, such as rubbing alcohol or a specialized stain remover spray.

How to remove highlighter pen from fabric?

When treating highlighter pen stains on fabric, first test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure that you won't damage the fabric or discolor the color.

How to use lemon juice to remove highlighter pen stains?

Apply fresh lemon juice to the highlighter stain, gently pat with a sponge or cloth, and then rinse with cool water.

What if highlighter gets on your hands?

Wash repeatedly with soap and water, or wipe with rubbing alcohol.

What if highlighter gets on your face?

Immediately wash with warm water and a mild cleanser. If it persists, avoid scrubbing and try using a makeup remover.

What's the difference between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol?

Isopropyl alcohol is the main ingredient in rubbing alcohol. They are essentially the same thing and can both be used to disinfect and clean.

What if highlighter gets in your eyes?

Immediately flush your eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention as soon as possible.