How to Get Ink off the Walls
Pen ink is formulated in a way that ensures it is sufficiently thin to dry very fast after being released while at the same time it is also thick for consistency flow. The characteristic of drying fast is achieved through the use of dye instead of pigments, while oil-based solvent works toward achieving the desired thickness. According to Sciencing.com, besides these basic components of pen ink, there are other components like fatty acids and surfactants, that ensures the ink does not clog and also dries fast without penetrating through the paper. These different components are used in making pen ink that poses difficulties in removing if it gets to unintended areas. Pen ink can get to the surfaces such as walls in many ways. Children tend to have so many imaginations to express in any place they find by drawing using pens. When you find your children have drawn on your walls with ink, you should not be angry at their creativity but rather find a way of removing ink from those surfaces. The following methods can be applied to get ink off walls. Nevertheless, be cautious about using them directly on the wall. It is safe first to try them on a different surface to see which method is the most suitable for you without damaging the color of your wall.
Magic Eraser
They are sponges made using a foam containing a compound called formaldehyde. It is advisable to erase the ink stain by rubbing it with the eraser as the formaldehyde dissolves the stain, thus removing it.
Toothpaste
Non-gel toothpaste has been proven to be an effective way to remove ink stains from the walls. You should apply the toothpaste around the place where the ink stain is and leave it for about 10 minutes. It would help if you then rub the toothpaste with a dub piece of cloth. Repeat this procedure several times until you have successfully removed the ink stain.
Hairsprays
Hairspray is probably one of the most effective methods of removing pen ink specifically that contains alcohol. Spray the area with the ink stain and allow it to soak for some minutes. You should then rub it with a ball of cotton. According to Suggesthow, you should repeat the procedure several times to ensure the ink stain has been cleared.
Goo gone
Goo Gone is a spray gel that can also be used to remove ink stains on your wall. Spray it around the area with the ink stain and allow it to soak for some time. Rub the sprayed area using a clean piece of cloth until the stain is removed. One advantage of this gel is that it does not drip, giving you a satisfying result, and it is also pocket-friendly.
Polish remover
You can also consider using Fingernail polish remover to get ink stains off your wall. The product is an effective stain removing agent as it contains 100%acetone. You can use it to easily do the work, although you should be cautious because fingernail polish remover has the ability to remove almost everything. Therefore, you need to apply a small amount to a cotton ball and then apply it to the area with the ink. Rub gently because if you use a lot of force, you end up removing even the paint.
Rubbing Alcohol
Using alcohol to remove ink stains from walls has also been proven to be an effective way. Apply alcohol on a clean piece of cloth or a cotton swab, and then rub it gently around the inked area. Later you should use water and soap to clean the area you applied the alcohol. You don’t need to repeat this procedure because it easily removes ink stains from walls. Alcohol is not sticky and does the job effectively.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is prodigious in removing stains. The procedure involves making a paste by mixing baking soda with water at the ratio of 1:2. In your case, if the stains are not many, you can mix one teaspoon of baking soda with two teaspoons of water. Apply the paste to the area with ink using an old toothbrush. Rub gently because baking power can be a bit aggressive and also harsh on paint. It would be best to clean the area afterward with a clean piece of cloth with water and soap.
Bleach pen
Bleach pen contains gel and is also effective in removing ink on walls. It is mainly used to remove specks of ink stains, and it is recommended on walls painted with white paint due to its bleaching effect. You should apply a little to the area with the ink stain and rub it. Wash immediately with warm soapy water using a clean piece of cloth.
Butter
According to lovetoknow.com, butter mixed with salt can be used to remove pen ink from your wall. You should apply the mixture to the stained area and rub it softly. Allow it to settle for few minutes and wipe it using a cotton ball.
Lemon juice and salt
Lemon juice and salt are household ingredients that are effective in removing ink stains. Cut a fresh lemon, squeeze out the juice in a container, mix the elements, and stir the mixture well. Spread the combination softly on the area with ink stain and scour around the area using a cotton swab. Finally, clean with plain water.
Baby wipes
Baby wipes also removes inked walls proficiently. They have alcohol mixed with other elements, which makes them capable of removing ink stains. Scrub the wall with a baby wipe lightly. You should repeat the procedure several times until the stain is wiped out.
Paint the wall
Certainly, when you try all the above methods, and none seem to work or give you satisfying results, you can repaint your wall to look new again. Ensure you get the color that matches your wall, and paint the part that was inked. Although this method will be a bit expensive, you will be satisfied with the result. You can also paint the whole wall if your budget allows.