How do you get Sharpie off leather?

Sharpies are great for creating bold, permanent marks on paper and some other surfaces, but using them on leather can leave unsightly stains. While Sharpie ink is designed to be very difficult to remove, it is possible to get it off of leather with some effort. Here are the most effective methods for removing Sharpie from leather.

Try alcohol-based products

Many stains on leather can be tackled with alcohol-based cleaners. The alcohol helps break down the chemicals in the ink, allowing it to be lifted off the leather surface more easily. Some good options to try include:

• Rubbing alcohol
• Nail polish remover
• Hand sanitizer
• Vodka or other clear liquors
• Leather cleaning wipes with alcohol

To use one of these products, dip a clean cloth into the liquid and blot at the Sharpie stain. Try not to scrub too aggressively, as this could damage the leather. The alcohol should help dissolve the stain. You may need to reapply a few times to fully lift the ink.

Try non-acetone nail polish remover

For a milder option, try using a non-acetone nail polish remover. Acetone can be harsh on leather, but a formula without it can still help break down permanent marker without damaging the material too much. Apply some non-acetone remover to a cotton ball and gently blot at the stain until it begins to transfer onto the cotton.

Use saddle soap

Saddle soap is a type of leather cleaning product that has natural oils and mild detergents to clean leather safely. To use it on a Sharpie stain, dampen a clean cloth with some saddle soap mixed with warm water. Gently wipe the stained area, rinsing the cloth as needed. The soap will help lift the ink from the leather while also conditioning it.

Try a bleach pen

A bleach pen allows you to apply concentrated bleach directly to the Sharpie stain. The bleach works to oxidize and break down the ink, lightening the stain. However, bleach can discolor or damage leather, so this method requires extra care. Only use a bleach pen that allows controlled, direct application. Never soak the leather in liquid bleach. Gently rub the pen over the stain until it fades, then rinse with clean water and condition the leather.

Use baking soda paste

For a non-toxic way to lift Sharpie from leather, try making a baking soda paste. Mix a few tablespoons of baking soda with just enough water to form a thick paste. Use an old toothbrush to gently scrub the paste onto the stain. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. The mild abrasives in the baking soda will help lift the stain without harsh chemicals.

Try cleaning clay

Specialized cleaning clays can be very effective for absorbing and removing stains from leather. Gently rub a cleaning clay bar over the Sharpie stain, pressing it into the leather. It will pull out the ink as you rub. Once the clay becomes dark and saturated, fold it over to reveal a cleaner section. You can reuse leather cleaning clay many times until it stops absorbing the ink.

Use salt

Plain table salt can also work to draw Sharpie out of leather. Mix equal parts salt and hot water to make a thick paste. Carefully scrub it over the stain using a clean toothbrush or cloth. Let it dry completely, then brush off the salt and rinse the leather. Salt is mildly abrasive so be careful not to over-scrub.

Try a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

These popular cleaning sponges utilize a mild abrasive and soap formula that can also work to remove permanent marker stains. Very gently rub a damp Magic Eraser over the Sharpie stain to essentially erase it from the leather. Don’t bear down too hard, as these sponges can damage leather if used too aggressively.

Use hair spray

The alcohol in most hair sprays can also help dissolve permanent marker stains. Spray some directly onto the stain, let it soak in for a minute, then blot with a clean cloth. Reapply if needed. The hair spray helps lift the stain while the conditioning agents in the formula help protect the leather.

Try sun exposure

Believe it or not, placing leather out in direct sunlight can help remove stubborn stains like Sharpie. The UV rays help break down the ink compounds, while the heat causes them to rise out of the leather. It may take a few hours in the sun, flipping the item periodically, but the sunlight should help fade and lift the ink.

Use leather stain removers

There are special leather cleaning products formulated specifically for removing stains and discoloration from leather surfaces while conditioning the material. Leather stain remover sprays and gels allow you to target just the stained area without over-cleaning the leather. Apply the stain remover and let it soak in for a few minutes before gently wiping away.

Try automotive upholstery cleaners

Since car interior leather is designed to stand up to plenty of wear, tear, and staining, automotive leather cleaners are extra tough. Pick out a high quality cleaner specifically made for auto upholstery and apply a small amount directly to the Sharpie stain. Gently agitate the area to work in the cleaner, then wipe clean. The powerful formula will help lift the ink.

When in doubt, call a professional

If you’ve tried every home remedy with minimal success, don’t despair. There are leather cleaning professionals who have industrial cleaning products and tools that can remove even the most stubborn permanent marker stains. They can clean the leather without risk of damage and recondition it afterwards. Though it may cost a bit for the service, they can likely rescue even your most cherished leather items.

Prevention is the best medicine

The easiest way to deal with Sharpie stains on leather is to not let them occur in the first place. Here are some tips to keep your leather looking beautiful and stain-free:

• Store Sharpies away from leather items like purses, shoes, furniture, etc.
• If you must use a Sharpie on leather, test an inconspicuous area first and let it fully dry before proceeding.
• Place a slip of paper inside leather items you are decorating or labeling to block any potential bleed-through.
• Seal Sharpie designs on leather with a leather protector spray to help prevent smudging or transfer.
• Cover leather surfaces during any projects using Sharpies or other permanent inks and markers.

Conclusion

Sharpie and leather don’t mix well, but stains do happen. With some determination and the right stain removal techniques, you can generally get the ink out fully. Try alcohol-based cleaners first, then move to other abrasive-free options like saddle soap or baking soda paste. For tough stains, upgrade to heavier-duty cleaners made for leather. And if all else fails call in a leather cleaning pro. Stopping stains before they start is the very best way to keep leather looking like new.