Ink stains can quickly turn your favorite clothes into a frustrating mess, whether they come from leaking pens, printer ink, or accidental marks. Removing ink is not always easy, as it can deeply penetrate fabric fibers and spread if treated incorrectly.
That is why choosing the right ink stain remover is essential for protecting your garments and saving time and effort. The best products are designed to break down ink pigments while being gentle on different fabrics, from cotton to denim and synthetics.
In this guide, we highlight the top 10 ink stain removers that deliver reliable results and help restore your clothes to a clean, fresh look.
10. Amodex Ink & Stain Remover, 4oz/120ml, Pack of 3
Amodex Ink & Stain Remover is the go‑to solution for anyone tired of stubborn marks on clothing, upholstery, carpets, or even skin.
This 4 oz (120 ml) bottle packs a powerful, yet gentle formula that lifts ink, ballpoint, Sharpie, gel, wine, grass, blood, grease, coffee, baby formula, food and many other set‑in stains without damaging delicate fabrics.
The innovative blend is Sharpie‑recommended and backed by a satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust it to handle the toughest messes.
Made in the USA by a woman‑owned family business that’s been perfecting stain‑fighting since the 1950s, Amodex delivers professional‑grade results you can rely on at home.
For best results, let the remover sit on the stain for 1–12 hours before laundering; repeat as needed until the spot fades.
Whether you’re rescuing a favorite shirt, refreshing a sofa, or removing a marker from skin, this versatile cleaner makes stain removal quick, easy, and effective.
Pros
- Eliminates ink, marker, and gel stains effortlessly
- Safe for clothing, upholstery, carpets, and skin
- Sharpie‑recommended, professional‑strength formula
- Made in USA by a woman‑owned family business
- Long‑dwell time boosts stain‑lifting power
Cons
- Requires waiting up to 12 hours for best results
- Strong scent may be noticeable during application
- Not ideal for delicate leather without a patch test
9. OxiClean Max Force Laundry Gel
OxiClean Max Force Laundry Stain Remover Gel Stick packs a powerful, pre‑treatment punch into a convenient 6.2 fl oz stick.
The thick, rub‑on gel saturates stubborn, dried‑in stains instantly, then lets you hold the treatment for as little as five minutes—or up to a full week—so you can fit laundry into any schedule.
Its enzyme‑rich formula attacks oil, grease, makeup, blood, grass, soil, clay, ink, food, drinks, and the inevitable kid‑and‑baby mishaps without compromising fabric color.
Because it’s dye‑free, chlorine‑free, and safe for both whites and colored machine‑washable fabrics, you can trust it on every family member’s wardrobe.
For an extra boost, simply add OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover powder to the wash as directed.
Pros
- Pre‑treat now, wash up to seven days later
- Tackles a wide range of common household stains
- Color‑safe, dye‑free, and chlorine‑free formula
- Works on both whites and colored fabrics safely
- Ideal for kid and baby clothing care
Cons
- Gel stick may dry out if not capped tightly
- Requires a separate wash step for full removal
- Not suitable for non‑machine‑washable items
8. Grandma’s Secret – Stain Remover
Grandma’s Secret Spot Remover is the gentle powerhouse every laundry room needs. Its toxin‑free formula attacks stubborn stains—oil, paint, blood, pet accidents—without stripping color or leaving behind residue.
Because it’s free of chlorine, bleach, and phosphates, you can trust it on delicate fabrics, heirloom pieces, and everyday wear alike. A pleasant citrus scent follows each treatment, turning stain‑fighting into a fresh experience.
The concentrated 2‑ounce bottle works in any water temperature, so you can spot‑clean before or after a wash, even on rust‑aged marks that have survived multiple cycles.
Perfect for busy parents, it lifts diaper leaks, baby‑food splatters, and everyday messes with a simple dab, gentle rub, and blot. Keep your wardrobe looking new while staying safe for skin and the environment.
Pros
- Removes stains without fading fabric colors
- No bleach, chlorine, or harsh chemicals
- Works on a wide variety of stains
- Pleasant citrus fragrance after cleaning
- Effective in any water temperature
Cons
- Small 2‑ounce size may need frequent refills
- Requires a few minutes of manual agitation
- Not ideal for large, heavily set‑in stains
7. Carbona Stain Devils #3 Laundry Stain Remover
Carbona Stain Devils® #3 is a powerhouse‑grade stain remover designed for the toughest ink, marker, and crayon mishaps. Its professional‑strength formula penetrates deep into fibers, breaking down pigments without damaging delicate, washable fabrics.
Safe for skin contact, it can be applied directly to the stain before laundering, making it ideal for both home use and on‑the‑go emergencies.
The compact 1.7 fl oz bottle fits easily into a laundry room shelf or a travel bag, and the single‑pack size ensures you have just the right amount for occasional but stubborn stains.
Whether you’re battling a child’s art project fallout or a workplace ink spill, Carbona Stain Devils® #3 delivers quick, reliable results without the need for harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Professional strength lifts stubborn pigments fast
- Works on ink, marker, and crayon stains
- Safe for skin and washable fabrics
- Compact 1.7 fl oz bottle, easy storage
- No harsh chemicals, gentle on colors
Cons
- May require repeat application on older stains
- Small bottle may run out quickly with frequent use
- Not intended for dry‑clean‑only garments
6. Amodex Ink & Stain Remover, 4oz Bottle (Pack of 2)
Amodex Ink & Stain Remover is the go‑to solution when a rogue pen, wine spill, or greasy fingerprint threatens your favorite fabrics—or even your skin.
The powerful, yet gentle, formula tackles everything from ballpoint ink and Sharpie markers to blood, coffee, baby formula, grass, and stubborn grease.
It’s safe on clothing, carpeting, upholstery, tablecloths, and delicate surfaces, and it works on set‑in stains when left to act for up to 12 hours. The 4 oz (120 ml) bottle is compact, and the pack of two ensures you always have a backup.
Made in the USA by Amodex—a woman‑owned family business since the 1950s—this is the only Sharpie‑recommended stain remover on the market, backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
Follow the simple instructions on the bottle, let the solution sit, then launder as usual for best results.
Pros
- Removes toughest ink and permanent markers
- Safe for fabrics, upholstery, and skin
- Works on set‑in stains with extended dwell time
- Sharpie‑recommended, professional‑grade formula
- Made in USA by a woman‑owned company
Cons
- Requires waiting up to 12 hours for best results
- Strong odor may be off‑putting for some
- Not ideal for delicate silk without a spot test
5. Shout Advanced Stain Remover ( Gel )
Shout Advanced Stain Remover Gel is an ultra‑concentrated, thick gel that tackles the most stubborn, set‑in stains without sacrificing fabric softness.
The 8.7 oz bottle comes with a built‑in scrubber brush, letting you work the powerful enzymes deep into fibers for food, drink, makeup, grass, red wine, blood and more.
Its gel formula stays put on the spot, so you can treat a stain now and toss the garment in the wash up to a week later. Safe for all machine‑washable whites and colors, it works in any water temperature and is compatible with both HE and standard washers.
The convenient squeeze‑and‑scrub design makes pre‑treating quick, while the gentle‑on‑fabric formula keeps clothes looking fresh after countless cycles.
Add this compact bottle to your laundry arsenal for a reliable, salon‑level stain‑fighting solution that’s ready whenever a mess appears.
Pros
- Ultra‑concentrated gel stays on tough stains
- Built‑in brush reaches deep into fabric fibers
- Works in any water temperature, HE or standard
- Safe for whites and colors, fabric‑friendly formula
- Can pre‑treat now, wash up to a week later
Cons
- Small 8.7 oz size may need frequent refills
- Brush can be stiff for delicate fabrics
- Gel may feel sticky before rinsing
4. Amodex Ink & Stain Remover
Amodex Ink & Stain Remover packs powerhouse performance into a compact 1 oz bottle.
Whether you’re battling stubborn ballpoint ink, gel pens, permanent markers, or everyday mishaps like wine, coffee, grass, blood, grease, and baby formula, this formula attacks the toughest stains without damaging delicate fabrics.
It’s safe for clothing, carpets, upholstery, tablecloths, and even skin‑contact surfaces—just follow the simple directions.
The proprietary, Sharpie‑recommended blend delivers professional‑grade results that you can trust, and the “leave‑on” tip—letting the remover sit 1‑12 hours—maximises lift before laundering.
Proudly made in the USA by Amodex, a woman‑owned family business dating back to the 1950s, this little bottle brings decades of stain‑fighting heritage to your home.
Pros
- Tackles ink, gel, and permanent markers effortlessly
- Works on fabrics, carpets, upholstery, and more
- Sharpie‑recommended, professional‑strength formula
- Long‑hold tip boosts stain‑lightening power
- Made in the USA by a trusted family brand
Cons
- Small 1 oz size may need frequent refills
- Requires waiting time for maximum effectiveness
- Not ideal for heavily set, old stains without repeat use
3. Carbona Stain Devils #3 Laundry Stain Remover, 3 Pack
Carbona Stain Devils® #3 is a professional‑strength stain remover formulated especially for the toughest ink, marker and crayon marks.
The fast‑acting formula penetrates deep into fibers, lifting pigments without damaging delicate or washable fabrics. It’s also skin‑safe, so you can treat stains on children’s clothing or even on your own hands without irritation.
Each bottle holds 1.7 fl oz of liquid, and the convenient 3‑pack ensures you always have a spare on hand for quick clean‑ups at home, in the office, or on the go.
The clear, non‑staining solution works on cotton, polyester, blends, and even upholstery, making it a versatile addition to any laundry arsenal. Simply apply, let it work its magic, then launder as usual for a spotless finish.
Pros
- Removes stubborn ink, marker, and crayon stains
- Safe for skin and washable fabrics
- Works on a wide range of material types
- Compact 1.7 fl oz bottles for easy storage
- Multi‑pack ensures you’re never without a bottle
Cons
- May require pre‑treatment for deep set stains
- Not intended for dry‑clean‑only garments
- Strong scent could be off‑putting for some users
2. Carbona Stain Devils #3 Laundry Stain Remover
Carbona Stain Devils® #3 is a powerhouse formula designed to tackle the toughest ink, marker, and crayon mishaps. Its professional‑strength chemistry penetrates deep into fibers, lifting stains without harsh scrubbing.
Safe for both skin and washable fabrics, the liquid can be applied directly to the spot or added to a pre‑wash soak, making it versatile for clothing, upholstery, and even kids’ art projects.
The compact 1.7 fl oz bottle fits neatly in a laundry room or travel bag, and the single‑pack design ensures you have the right amount for occasional emergencies without waste.
Whether you’re battling a fresh pen leak or an old crayon smear, Carbona’s fast‑acting enzymes break down pigments, restoring colors to their original brilliance while keeping fabrics soft and intact.
Pros
- Removes ink, marker, and crayon instantly
- Professional strength works on multiple fabric types
- Safe for skin and delicate washable garments
- Compact 1.7 fl oz bottle for easy storage
- Simple application—spot treat or add to wash
Cons
- Not suitable for dry‑clean‑only items
- Small volume may require frequent repurchase for heavy use
- Requires quick action for best results
1. Amodex Unique Soap Liquid
Amodex Ink and Stain Remover is a powerhouse liquid soap that tackles the toughest marks with ease.
Whether you’re battling ballpoint ink, gel pens, permanent markers, wine spills, grass, blood, grease, coffee, baby formula, or food stains, this 4 fl oz (0.1 qt) bottle delivers professional‑grade results.
The innovative formula works on clothing, carpeting, furniture, fabric, tablecloths, upholstery, and even delicate skin—making it a versatile ally in any household.
As the only SharpiE‑recommended stain remover on the market, Amodex guarantees satisfaction when you follow the simple directions.
Proudly made in the USA by a woman‑owned family business that’s been serving homes since the 1950s, this remover blends heritage with cutting‑edge chemistry.
For maximum power, let the solution sit on the stain for 1–12 hours before laundering; repeat as needed until the blemish fades.
Pros
- Eliminates ink, gel, and permanent marker stains
- Works on fabrics, carpets, upholstery, and skin
- SharpiE‑recommended, professional‑strength formula
- Made in USA by a woman‑owned family business
- Simple “apply‑wait‑launder” method, no extra tools
Cons
- Requires long dwell time for toughest stains
- Small 4 oz bottle may need frequent repurchase
- Not ideal for delicate leather or suede surfaces
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most effective household product for removing ink stains from clothing?
Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) works best for most ink types.
1. Place a clean white cloth or paper towel under the stained area.
2. Dab a small amount of 70‑90% isopropyl alcohol onto the ink using a cotton ball or swab—don’t rub, just let it soak.
3. After the ink lifts, blot with a clean damp cloth, then launder as usual.
Tip: Test on an inconspicuous spot first to ensure the fabric doesn’t discolor.
Can I use a commercial ink‑remover pen or spray, and which brands are reliable?
Yes—commercial products are convenient and often formulated for a wide range of inks.
– Ink Away (spray or pen) – penetrates quickly and works on cotton, polyester, and blends.
– OxiClean MaxForce – a spray that combines surfactants and oxygen bleach for stubborn stains.
– Shout Advanced Gel – thick gel that clings to the fabric, ideal for delicate or patterned garments.
Apply the product according to the label, let it sit (usually 5‑10 minutes), then wash in the warmest water safe for the fabric.
How do I treat ink stains on delicate fabrics like silk or wool without damaging them?
For delicate fibers, use a gentler approach:
- Blot excess ink with a dry paper towel—avoid rubbing.
- Mix 1 part mild dish soap with 2 parts cool water.
- Dampen a white cloth with the solution and lightly dab the stain; do not saturate the fabric.
- Rinse the area with a cloth moistened in plain water.
Conclusion
Choosing the right ink stain remover hinges on a few fundamental principles: act quickly, test on a hidden seam, and match the remover to the fabric’s composition.
Gentle, enzyme‑based solutions work wonders on cotton and blends, while solvent‑based formulas are reserved for tougher, oil‑based inks on sturdier fibers.
Always follow the garment’s care label, rinse thoroughly, and repeat the process if needed before drying to avoid setting the mark.
By understanding these core strategies and tailoring your approach to each material, you can confidently tackle ink mishaps and keep your wardrobe looking fresh and spotless.
Henry Kenner