The Ultimate Guide to Removing Ink, Crayon, and Marker Stains from Kids' Clothing
As any parent knows, kids and art supplies are a recipe for messes — especially when those materials end up on their clothes. Ink, crayon, and marker stains can feel like a nightmare, but with the right approach, most of these stains are easier to remove than you think. Whether your child has been creating their next masterpiece or simply had a little mishap, these tips and tricks will get their clothes back to looking fresh and clean.
How to Remove Ink Stains from Kids' Clothes
Ink stains are among the trickiest to tackle — but very common once kids start school. Here's how to remove them effectively.
What you'll need:
- Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol — Isocol from Coles or Diggers from Bunnings work well) or hand sanitiser
- Paper towels or a clean cloth
- Mild laundry detergent
Step 1 — Blot the stain
Gently blot with a paper towel or cloth to remove any excess ink. Don't rub — that spreads the stain further.
Step 2 — Apply rubbing alcohol or hand sanitiser
Soak a cotton ball or clean cloth and dab it onto the stained area. You should start to see the ink lift almost immediately.
Step 3 — Keep blotting
Use a fresh cloth and keep blotting until the stain is mostly gone. Repeat for larger or older stains.
Step 4 — Wash in cold water
Once treated, wash the clothing in cold water with a mild detergent. Always check the stain before drying — heat sets ink stains permanently.
💡 Tip: If rubbing alcohol doesn't fully work, try a paste of dish soap and bicarb soda scrubbed in gently with an old toothbrush.
How to Get Crayon Stains Out of Kids' Clothing
Crayons leave behind greasy, waxy stains that seem impossible to shift — but they're very manageable with the right approach.
What you'll need:
- Bicarb soda
- Dish soap (preferably a grease-cutting variety)
- White vinegar
- A toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
Step 1 — Scrape off excess wax
Use a butter knife or spoon to gently scrape off any excess crayon. Work carefully to avoid rubbing it deeper into the fabric.
Step 2 — Apply dish soap
Dab dish soap directly onto the stained area to start breaking down the grease and wax.
Step 3 — Add bicarb soda
Sprinkle bicarb soda over the dish soap and scrub gently with a toothbrush in small circular motions. This lifts the stain and breaks down waxy residue.
Step 4 — Rinse and wash
Rinse with warm water to remove the soap and crayon residue, then wash as usual with a mild detergent.
Step 5 — For persistent stains
Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water, apply to the stain, and let it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing. Repeat if needed.
How to Remove Marker Stains from Kids' Clothes
Markers — washable or permanent — are another common culprit. The key is acting fast.
What you'll need:
- Baby wipes
- Dish soap or laundry detergent
- Rubbing alcohol (for permanent marker)
- An old toothbrush (for stubborn stains)
Step 1 — Act quickly
Blot the stain immediately with a baby wipe to remove excess ink. Don't rub — blot only.
Step 2 — Soak in soapy water
If the stain is still visible, soak the area in warm water with a few drops of dish soap for 15–30 minutes.
Step 3 — Scrub with a toothbrush
For stubborn stains, gently scrub in a circular motion with an old toothbrush to lift residual ink.
Step 4 — Wash and check
Launder as usual and check before drying. If the stain remains, repeat the process.
💡 Tip for permanent marker: Rubbing alcohol is your best friend. Apply directly to the stain and blot until the ink begins to lift — it works surprisingly well even on set stains.
Prevention Tips — How to Keep Kids' Clothes Art-Free
While stains are inevitable, a little prevention goes a long way:
- Use art smocks or dedicated play clothes — keep a stash of preloved kids' clothing specifically for craft sessions. Quality secondhand pieces are perfect for painting and drawing — and you won't stress if they get marked
- Choose washable art supplies — washable crayons, markers, and paints are designed to be removed easily, especially if caught early
- Set up a dedicated art space — a hard surface with a plastic tablecloth or tray makes clean-up much easier and reduces the chance of stains spreading to clothes
- Teach kids to be mindful — simple reminders like "keep your art on the paper" can make a real difference as they get older
🌿 Got a little artist at home?
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Ink, crayon, and marker stains are part of the creative chaos that comes with raising kids — and now you have the tools to tackle all of them. Whether you're dealing with a tiny doodle or a full-blown masterpiece gone awry, don't stress. Grab the right supplies, follow the steps, and most stains will come out completely.
At Daisy Chain Clothing, we're all about making kids' clothing last as long as possible — whether that's through clever stain removal or finding quality preloved pieces that are ready for whatever creative adventure comes next. 🎨🌿
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get ink out of kids' clothes?
Blot the stain (don't rub), apply rubbing alcohol or hand sanitiser, keep blotting until the ink lifts, then wash in cold water. Always check before drying — heat sets ink permanently.
How do you remove crayon from fabric?
Scrape off excess wax, apply dish soap and bicarb soda, scrub gently with a toothbrush, then rinse and wash. For stubborn stains, a white vinegar and water soak works well.
Can you get permanent marker out of kids' clothing?
Yes — rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is the most effective solution for permanent marker. Apply directly to the stain and blot until the ink lifts, then wash in cold water.
What's the best way to protect kids' clothes during art activities?
Use an art smock or keep a dedicated set of preloved play clothes for craft sessions. Choosing washable art supplies and setting up on a hard surface also helps significantly.
Should I use hot or cold water to remove art stains from kids' clothes?
Cold water is safest for most art stains — hot water can set ink and marker stains into the fabric permanently. Always check the stain is fully gone before putting the garment in the dryer.