Accidents happen, but it’s particularly annoying when they happen on your lovely leather furniture and accessories. So today, we’re showing you how to remove biro from leather.
Whether you dropped your pen on your prized leather chair, or you’ve got a creative toddler who’s been doing some scribbling, these tips and tricks will have your leather stain-free in no time!
We asked our professional Wecasa cleaners for their expert advice, and here are all their tried and tested techniques for cleaning ink off leather.
From Rubbing Alcohol to Toothpaste: Unconventional Methods for Biro Removal
Some of the most effective cleaning techniques come in the most unconventional forms – and ink removal is no exception!
Here are some of the most unexpected yet effective methods for how to remove biro from leather.
Using Toothpaste to Remove Ink From Leather
- Toothpaste has mild abrasive qualities and is designed to gently remove stains from sensitive teeth, which makes it a great option for leather.
- Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to the stained area and rub using a soft cloth or cotton swab.
- Wipe away with a clean, damp cloth.
Using Hairspray to Remove Ink From Leather
- You might be surprised to see hairspray on this list, but many people swear by it! Perfume can also work if you don’t have hairspray on hand.
- Drench a cotton bud or cotton ball in hairspray and gently dab at the stain.
- Wipe away any residue with a clean cloth.
- Follow with a leather conditioner to avoid drying out and cracking the leather.
Using Nail Polish Remover to Remove Ink From Leather
- Use non-acetone or acetone-free nail polish remover to avoid damaging the leather
- Use a cotton ball soaked in the nail polish remover and blot at the stain.
- Wipe away with a clean damp cloth and follow with leather conditioner.
Using Rubbing Alcohol to Remove Ink From Leather
- Use 70% isopropyl alcohol, and use a cloth to gently blot at the stain.
- The alcohol can dissolve ink, but it can also dry out the leather so try not to overapply.
- Wipe with a clean damp cloth, and follow with leather conditioner.
Preventing and Treating Stains: Maintaining Your Leather’s Best Look
Leather items can stay looking fantastic with a bit of care and a proactive approach to stains. Here’s what you can do to prevent and treat stains on your leather belongings.
Preventing Stains on Leather
Start by regularly wiping off dust and dirt with a soft, damp cloth to avoid stains from building up.
It’s also important to avoid leaving your leather in the sun too long which can fade and weaken the material.
Use a leather conditioner regularly to keep your leather nice and moisturised to prevent cracking, keep the natural oils intact, and make it more resistant to stains.
But be careful – you still want to make sure your leather is dry and away from water as much as possible.
Ultimately, you want to keep your leather in a cool, dry place with good airflow.
Treating Stains on Leather
If you spot a stain on your leather, then don’t wait! The longer it sits, the tougher it is to remove.
First, try to gently dab it with a clean cloth or paper towel. Rubbing can spread the stain and harm the leather.
If you need to use a leather cleaner or DIY solution, always try it on a hidden test spot first. That way you can see how your leather will react and avoid discolouration.
Choose gentle cleaners or solutions that won’t harm your leather. Strong chemicals like bleach or acetone are a no-no. Be patient because stain removal might take a few tries.
Don’t rush it or scrub too hard!
If you’re dealing with a stubborn stain or feeling unsure, it might be time to try a professional solution.
Remember, different leathers have different needs, so it’s essential to know what your leather requires. By giving your leather a little TLC, you can keep it looking gorgeous and extend its life.
When DIY Fails: Professional Solutions for Stubborn Biro Stains
If your DIY efforts at biro stain removal from leather haven’t been successful, there are still a few more options you can try.
Look for specialized leather cleaning services in your local area. These pros are equipped with the right tools and knowledge to deal with even the toughest stains.
Talk to friends, family, or online communities for recommendations. Getting insights from those who’ve been in your shoes can lead you to trustworthy professionals.
Leather goods stores, repair shops, or artisans often possess in-depth expertise in stain removal and leather care. They might either offer cleaning services themselves or point you toward a reliable source.
If you have larger leather furniture, like a leather couch, you might need to find someone who can come to you.
So, hopefully with these expert tips you now know how to remove biro from leather. And if you haven’t been able to get the stains out, you now know where to go for expert help.
Don’t forget that our professional Wecasa cleaners are always on hand for all your furniture care and stain removal needs! They can come straight to you and get that ink out of your leather in no time.
