How Do You Get Tipp-Ex Out of Clothes?

Tipp-Ex is a white correction fluid that is used to make alterations to printed or hand written work. Unfortunately, however, when spilt on clothing, Tipp-Ex is a bit of a nightmare! But don’t worry – all is not lost! 

Follow these simple steps to make sure the only trace of Tipp-Ex that you see is on the work that you’ve corrected! 

Step 1: Remove Excess Fluid

First of all, if the correction fluid hasn’t had time to dry yet, use some kitchen roll or a clean cloth to gently dab the stain and remove any excess fluid. 

Ensure to work inwards when doing this, so as not to spread the stain. Following this, leave the stain to dry before moving onto step two.

Step 2: Scrape Off the Dried Tipp-Ex

Now it’s time to scrape off the dried Tipp-Ex. You can do this using a blunt knife, your fingernail, or the edge of a bank card, for example. 

Be super careful not to damage the fabric, especially with delicate materials such as silk. 

If the material is really sturdy, then there’s no harm in being a little bit more vigorous, but it’s usually best to be gentle.

Step 3: Check the Care Label 

Check the care label to see what is recommended. If the instructions advise that the item is dry cleaned, then head to the dry cleaners and leave it with them—they’ll know what to do! 

It might be worth pointing out the stain to make them aware!

Step 4: Do a Patch Test

If you choose to wash your clothing at home, it’s definitely worth doing a patch test with some rubbing alcohol (you can also use white spirit or white vinegar) on a small area of your clothing (which is ideally not visible when wearing the garment!) to ensure there is no damage or discolouration. 

Step 5: Clean the Stain

If nothing shows up on the patch test, use a cotton bud or clean cloth to lightly dab the rubbing alcohol around and then onto the stain. If the garment is thin then do this on both sides.

Step 6: Leave to Dry

Leave your clothing for a few minutes then rinse the stain and leave to air dry. Alternatively, to be super thorough, you can stick your clothing in the wash! 

Step 7: Optionally Use WD-40

If the stain is really stubborn and still hasn’t gone after steps one to six, try spraying WD-40 on the stain and leaving it for 15 minutes. 

Step 8: Optionally Machine Wash

Using a biological laundry detergent, machine wash your clothing.