7 Most Effective Ways to Remove Sublimation Ink

The process to remove sublimation ink can be a hassle, but it doesn’t have to take a long time.

Whether you want to get rid of a design you no longer like or you accidentally transferred ink onto clothing or a hard surface, there are several efficient ways to do so.

With the knowledge you gain from this post, you’ll be prepared to take on any project requiring to remove sublimation ink.

We’ll explain the most effective strategies to remove sublimation ink from various materials, including common household goods and specialized cleaning solutions.

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Is it possible to remove sublimation ink from the fabric?

It can be difficult to remove sublimation ink from fabric, but it is possible with the right method. Many factors, including the fabric, the age of the stain, and the sublimation ink used, will determine how well the stain can be removed.

For example, fresh stains are typically easier to remove than older, set-in stains. The stain removal process may also be affected by the fabric’s composition.

It is more challenging to remove sublimation ink from fabrics made from natural fibers like cotton and linen because of the ink’s ability to penetrate the fabric’s surface. However, synthetic fibers are less likely to attract dirt and may be simpler to maintain.

Some sublimation inks are more difficult to remove than others, depending on their formulation and the substrate they were applied to. Generally speaking, removing heat-set sublimation inks from the fabric is more difficult than unset inks.

The best method for eliminating a stain will also depend on how severe the stain is. A combination of heat and soap may be needed to remove a mild to moderate-intensity stain.

Sometimes, you can get rid of the stain by using a product especially for erasing sublimation ink.

Always check a hidden part of the fabric before applying a product all over to ensure the fabric will not be damaged.

Also Read: How to remove screen printing?

1. Using rubbing alcohol

Most people have some rubbing alcohol on hand because of its usefulness as a disinfectant and cleaning agent. You can remove sublimation ink from fabric and other surfaces with this solution. Using rubbing alcohol to remove sublimation ink is described in detail below.

To ensure the rubbing alcohol won’t ruin or discolor the fabric, try it out first on a small, hidden area.

If the test passes, use rubbing alcohol to dampen a clean cloth.

Use the damp cloth to gently rub the stained area of the fabric until the ink begins to lift.

Rub the area until the stain is gone or until the cloth is thoroughly soiled.

To get rid of any rubbing alcohol residue after a stain has been removed, wash the fabric in cold water.

When the fabric is dry, let it air dry or blot the area gently with a clean cloth.

Stain removal may require more than one attempt; if the stain persists after following these instructions, try again.

2. Using white vinegar

If the ink stain is still fresh, white vinegar can be an easy and quick way to remove sublimation ink.

White vinegar, or acetic acid, helps dissolve the components of sublimation ink, making it simpler to wipe away.

Here are the specifics on how to use white vinegar to remove sublimation ink:

Fill a spray container with white vinegar and water, and shake well. The two components should be well mixed by shaking the solution.

The sublimation ink stain can be treated by spraying the solution directly onto it. You can also use a cloth or brush dipped in the solution to scrub the stain if it’s really large.

After applying the solution, let it on the stain for at least 5 minutes to dissolve the ink.

Scrub the stain in a circular motion with a brush with soft bristles. Vigorous scrubbing can damage fabrics, so take care not to overdo it if you need to remove sublimation ink.

Remove the vinegar solution and any remaining ink by rinsing the area with water.

The method should be repeated until the stain is gone.

After the stain has been treated, the garment can be washed as usual. This will aid in removing any remaining vinegar solution and preventing any lingering stench.

3. Using baking soda and water

Baking soda is a common home item that can be used to remove sublimation ink.

This technique works best on recent or faint stains. Here’s how to use baking soda to remove sublimation ink:

Collect some baking soda and use it to make a paste. Make a paste out of baking soda and water by combining the two in a bowl. The paste’s consistency must be robust to cling to the stained area.

The stain should be treated using the paste. Using a cloth or sponge, you can dab the baking soda paste onto the discoloration. Make sure the discoloration is well covered by rubbing the paste into it for about two minutes.

Let the paste dry for a while. Leave the paste on the stained surface for 30 minutes to an hour. In this way, the baking soda can effectively remove the discoloration.

Scrub the paste off. The baking soda paste can be removed with a damp cloth or sponge. You may get rid of the baking soda by rinsing the cloth or sponge often.

Investigate the spill. If the stain persists, wash the item and repeat the process.

4. Using dish soap and water

Using dish soap and water to remove sublimation ink from fabric is a quick and easy solution.

This technique is safe for use on the most delicate materials, and it effectively eliminates stains of mild to moderate strength.

This is the proper procedure:

To begin, fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap.

Soak a clean towel in the soapy water, then use it to scrub the soiled area gently.

Keep rubbing the cloth in a circular motion on the stain until the stain begins to come out.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 with clean water and the same cloth to remove all traces of the stain.

Please remove any remaining soap from the fabric by rinsing it with clean water after treating the stain.

Let the garment dry completely in the air.

Also Read: How to Remove Screen printing from Polyester ?

5. Using cornstarch and water

Sublimation ink can be difficult to remove from some surfaces, but a mixture of cornstarch and water will do the trick. To implement this strategy, do the following:

Combine cornstarch and water in a bowl and stir until smooth. There should be no chunks, and the paste shouldn’t be too thin.

Use a sponge or rag to dab the mixture onto the discolored area.

In circular motions, apply the mixture to the discoloration and gently rub.

Allow the solution to settle on the stain for 5-10 minutes.

Use water to wash away the paste.

It will take more applications before the discoloration is gone.

Let the affected area air dry completely.

It’s worth noting that the results of this procedure can vary depending on how long the mixture is kept on the stain and how hard it is rubbed.

Removing sublimation ink completely may require multiple attempts, although corn starch and water are mild solutions suitable for most substrates.

6. Using aspirin

In addition to being a popular pain reliever, aspirin is often used to get rid of stains or to remove sublimation ink.

Salicylic acid, found in aspirin, is a weak acid that can help break down the ink particles in sublimation ink stains, making them simpler to remove.

However, aspirin shouldn’t be used on delicate materials like silk or wool because it can harm the fibers. Aspirin should be tested on a remote fabric part before being used liberally.

This is how you use aspirin to remove sublimation ink:

Prepare an aspirin powder using two or three crushed tablets.

To make a paste, combine the crushed aspirin with warm water.

The paste should be rubbed into the stained fabric directly.

Working with a soft bristles brush or your fingers, thoroughly work the paste into the fabric.

Wait to touch the fabric for at least ten to fifteen minutes while the paste sets.

To remove the paste, wash the fabric in warm water.

If the sublimation ink stain persists, repeat the process.

Wash the fabric as usual to remove any lingering aspirin paste.

7. Using a commercial stain remover

Commercial stain removers are carefully made treatments with powerful chemicals to break down and remove stubborn stains.

They are sold in supermarkets, hardware stores, and on the internet.

Find a commercial stain remover that is made to work with sublimation ink. Check the label to ensure it can be used on the material you intend to clean.

It is important to follow the directions on the label while making the solution. The stain remover can be diluted with water in a spray bottle or applied straight on the spot.

Squeeze some of the commercial stain removers onto the stained area. Be sure to apply it evenly to the stained area and wait for it to take effect.

It will help to gently agitate the solution with a soft bristles brush or an old toothbrush.

Once the commercial stain remover has been applied, and the excess ink has been blotted up, the affected area should be thoroughly rinsed with water.

Care for the cloth as you normally would, per the label’s directions. Inspecting the stain before tossing the garment into the dryer is important, as the heat might permanently set the stain.

You should repeat the process if the stain is not fully gone after the first treatment.

Conclusion

Finally, eradicating sublimation ink is only sometimes a simple process and calls for a knowledgeable hand. The success to remove sublimation ink from any item—clothing, home decor, or promotional material—depends on the fabric used, the age of the ink, and the removal technique.