Ink stains on carpets are every homeowner’s nightmare, especially when it’s a bold black pen ink mark staring up from your plush carpet or rug. Fortunately, you don’t need specialised products to tackle this issue. Many common household fluids can help dissolve and lift black pen ink stains right from your carpet fibres.

We also wrote a DIY article about removing red wine stains and created a mini YouTube video for our channel.

Follow these easy steps and make sure to always perform a spot test first to avoid any potential discolouration. Blot – do not rub!

DIY Guide: Removing Black Pen Ink Stains from Carpets and Rugs

Black pen ink can seep deep into carpet fibres if not dealt with promptly. Acting quickly can prevent the stain from settling further and becoming a permanent eyesore. After choosing one of the cleaning methods below, rinse the area with warm water and blot dry with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

Common Complaints From Customers

We are not the cheapest company to use so we know the usual common complaints that customers tell us after doing them DIY or using a cheap company or person for the first time

• My carpets stink
• The carpet don’t look any different
• My carpets are still wet 3 days after hubby used the hire machine
• We paid a discount price from a local company and I expected better results

The easy answer is to have them cleaned professionally in the first place and pay the extra for peace of mind

It may be as little as £15 more than the cheapest quote – but with much less hassle, outstanding results and a smile thrown in for free!

Methylated Spirits – The British Solution to Rubbing Alcohol

In the UK, rubbing alcohol is not as commonly found in households as in other countries. Instead, methylated spirits can often do the trick. Use this product sparingly on a cloth or cotton ball to dab at the stain. Avoid scrubbing, as this could spread the ink further. Remember, always do a patch test on an inconspicuous area to ensure it won’t damage your carpet.

For other carpet cleaning tips, visit our guide on general carpet cleaning tips. We also offer property services to local Somerset landlords, housing authorities and the private sector for commercial carpet cleaning from Bristol down to Taunton,

White Vinegar and Dish Soap Solution for Safe Carpet Cleaning

White vinegar combined with dish soap is another simple yet effective method for removing black ink stains. Mix one tablespoon of dish soap, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. Use a clean cloth to apply the solution by blotting the stain gently. The vinegar and soap will work together to break down the ink particles without damaging the carpet fibres. Just remember – blot, don’t rub!

Aftercare: Rinsing and Blotting for Lasting Results

1. Once you’ve treated the stain, it’s essential to rinse the area to prevent any cleaning residues from remaining.
2. Use a clean cloth and warm water to gently blot the area. This process helps to lift away any remaining ink particles and cleaning solution, leaving your carpet fresh and clean.
3. For thorough carpet restoration, you may consider a deep carpet cleaning service, or for commercial floors with trade carpets, see our carpet cleaning services in Somerset for professional solutions.

Nail Polish Remover (Acetone) – A Careful Solution for Tough Ink Stains

Acetone-based nail polish remover can sometimes be used to lift ink stains, but it must be applied with caution. Dab it lightly with a cotton ball or clean cloth and avoid prolonged exposure, as acetone can damage some carpet fibres. Once you’ve lifted the stain, rinse with water to remove any acetone residue.

For extreme cases, our emergency carpet restoration services could provide a more thorough solution.

Hydrogen Peroxide for Light-Coloured Carpets Only

For those with light-coloured carpets, a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can be very effective. Apply a small amount directly onto the stain and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Then, blot with a clean cloth until the ink begins to lift. Be cautious with this method as hydrogen peroxide has a mild bleaching effect and is only suitable for lighter carpet colours.

Learn more about our specialist cleaning services for Weston-super-Mare and Somerset.

Milk – An Unusual Yet Surprisingly Effective Solution

Milk is a gentle alternative for delicate carpet fibres, call Andy on 07815 814128 if this doesn’t work on higher priced carpets in your home. Believe it or not, milk can sometimes help with ink stains.

Pour a small amount of milk over the stain and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the fats in the milk to break down the ink. Then blot the stain with a clean cloth and rinse with warm water. To tackle more complex stains, see our professional rug cleaning services in Weston-super-Mare.

Ammonia and Water Solution for Deep Stain Removal

For tough ink stains, a mixture of one tablespoon of ammonia with half a cup of water can be effective. However, ammonia should be used sparingly and with caution, as it can affect carpet colours and textures. Apply the solution with a cloth, blotting the stain carefully. After the stain begins to lift, rinse thoroughly with water to prevent ammonia residue from remaining on the carpet.

For deeper stains or more extensive cleaning needs, our professional carpet cleaning in Weston-super-Mare may be just what you need.

When to Call in Professional Carpet Cleaners

Sometimes, even the best DIY solutions may not fully remove an ink stain, especially if it’s been left untreated for some time. In these cases, it’s worth consulting with a professional carpet cleaning service. At CrawfordsPRC, we bring years of expertise and advanced equipment to handle stubborn stains without damaging your carpets. Whether it’s an ink stain, food spill, or general deep cleaning, we can restore your carpets to a pristine state.

Find out more about our carpet cleaning expertise in Somerset and the surrounding areas.

Author note from SEO Lady Nina – Below is my photo:

The reason I wrote this blog is because Andy cleaned my office carpet last week and this morning I discovered black pen ink spots.

I tried acetate Nail Polish Remover and it didn’t work, as you can see it only spread the stains wider. Just my 2p for you to consider.