Removal of Gel ink from a garment...........

[jackthehat]

A black gel-ink pen was left in an item of my sons clothes.
In addition to the first wash (which liberally deposited the ink around the garment) he's washed it a further three times, which have had little effect.
It's a green item of indeterminate material - mainly cotton, I should think.........

He's tried 'Vanish' but it hasn't worked.

Does anyone have any further ideas of what we could do to remove, or at least lessen, the marks ?

[B00]

Put it in the bin?

[ChuckFickens]

Gel ink seems to be alcohol based, so any pure alcohol should remove it (vodka at a push, but surgical spirit may be better)

[jackthehat]

^ I suggested that, B00 when he handed it to me this morning.............
Unfortunately, his 'bosses' wouldn't be terribly happy about it ;o)

[jackthehat]

It can ruddy well stay there, then, Chuck.........he's not having any of my Christmas vodka !! :D

[BilSuth]

Assuming the fabric has not undergone a chemical reaction it might be possible to transfer the stain to either a wet cloth, using an iron, or there are the old-fashioned stand-by materials for transfer - blotting paper or brown paper.

[boxtops]

have a look at

http://www.mrscleanus.../tips/ink-stains.html

Kim and Aggie recommend hair spray but I don't know how it works on fabric. Worth a try if you are going to put it in the bin!

[Vagrant]

Try Stain Devils - available in supermarkets, usually near washing powder - there are various types, for blood, red wine, mud etc - there is one for one for ballpoint ink and felt tip, which I have personally used very successfully - not sure about gel ink, but must be worth a try.

[Dagman]

WD40 is excellent, no joke, skin friendly etc! A friend recently used it to remove self tanning stain from her hands no problem. I know it is advertised as an oil for loads of stuff but it really is versatile.

[jackthehat]

Thank you all and a Happy New Year.............:o)