How Can I Remove Ball-Point Ink From Pink Rubber Boots?

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An accidental drop of a ink pen and your favorite pink, rubber boots now have a glaring blue stripe that’s not part of the design. Instead of relegating the boots to the status of work clothes, try a few unconventional cleaning approaches to get the stain out. The good news is that rubber is fairly durable and can really take a scrubbing. Always test a small area of the boots for colorfastness so your pink kicks don’t fade to white.

Step 1

Spread a layer of newspaper on a flat surface and lay the boots on top.

Step 2

Pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol onto a white cloth. Avoid using colored cloths as the color may transfer onto the surface of your boots as you clean them.

Step 3

Look at the boots and locate an area that is the same color as the ink-stained area but in an inconspicuous location. Good locations are the bottom of the boot or near the heel.

Step 4

Dab the cloth soaked with alcohol on a tiny portion of the boot and let it sit for five minutes. Examine the area for discoloration and if none exists, proceed with the stain removal process.

Step 5

Pour another 1 to 2 tablespoons of rubbing alcohol onto the cloth to redampen it.

Step 6

Place the cloth over the ink stain and let it sit for 20 to 30 seconds.

Step 7

Wipe the boot gently with the cloth, avoiding harsh rubbing.

Step 8

Lift the cloth up and turn it to a section that is not ink stained. Apply more alcohol and continue wiping the ink stain until it no longer remains.

Step 9

Dampen a cloth with water and 1/2 teaspoon of a gentle liquid soap.

Step 10

Wipe all surfaces of the boot thoroughly with the cloth to remove the alcohol residue.

Step 11

Dry the boot with a clean towel.