How To Remove Ballpoint Ink From Leather Purses

A leather purse is an expensive accessory that lasts years when cared for properly. Whether a ballpoint ink pen broke in your purse, the lid slipped off, or you just signed a credit card receipt and accidentally brushed the ink pen across your leather purse, you are left with a stain that needs to be handled quickly. By knowing the proper cleaning routine, and acting fast when an ink stain occurs, you can entirely remove the ink stain and leave your leather purse looking brand new.

Step 1

Blot the fresh stain with paper towels. Use a fresh area of paper towel with each blot. Do not rub over the stain, as it will spread the ink further.

Step 2

Spray a heavy coating of hairspray onto a fresh paper towel. Blot over the ink stain repeatedly until no more ink comes off.

Step 3

Pour rubbing alcohol onto another clean paper towel until it is saturated. Blot the soaked paper towel over the ink until all residue is removed. The alcohol has a higher alcohol content than the hairspray, yet is still safe for use on the leather.

Step 4

Wipe the area with a damp paper towel after all ink is removed, to remove the residue and alcohol.

Step 5

Apply a leather conditioner to restore moisture, as the alcohol will pull moisture out of the leather purse. Use a spray-on or lotion form, following the instructions on the bottle of conditioner.