Will Dried Ink In Dryer Get On Clothes? (Answered In Detail)

Have you ever unloaded your laundry, only to find a dreaded ink stain from a pen that snuck into the dryer and you’re wondering if dried ink in the dryer gets on clothes?

Ink stains can be stubborn, and the heat of a dryer can exacerbate the problem. But don’t worry, we’ll explore effective strategies to tackle dried ink in the dryer.

Dried ink in a dryer can get onto clothes. The likelihood and extent of staining depend on factors such as the type of ink (gel, ballpoint, liquid), the dryer’s temperature, and the fabric’s vulnerability. Higher temperatures increase the risk of ink melting and transferring to fabrics, with synthetic materials being more susceptible to heat-set stains.

In this article we provide in-depth knowledge and practical tips to effectively manage this issue, ensuring your clothes remain unblemished and your dryer functions optimally.

What Causes Ink to End Up in the Dryer?

Ink stains in dryers are usually a result of the accidental inclusion of writing instruments like pens in laundry loads. The risk varies depending on the type of ink and fabric:

Types of Ink: Common ink types include gel, ballpoint, and liquid ink. Gel inks can melt under heat, ballpoint inks are oil-based and may become more viscous, while liquid inks can spread quickly when heated.
Fabric Vulnerability: Synthetic fabrics like polyester are more prone to heat-set stains, while natural fibers like cotton might absorb ink but allow easier stain removal.
Ink Behavior in the Dryer: When exposed to heat, ink can become fluid, increasing the risk of transferring to clothes. The risk is higher if the ink hasn’t fully dried.

How to clean dried ink in a dryer

Cleaning dried ink in the dryer should be done properly and using the right materials.

Below is a step by step process to clean off any ink stains safely in your dryer:

Unplug and Prepare: Always start by unplugging your dryer for safety. Gather your cleaning supplies, including a non-flammable cleaner like Clorox® Scentiva® Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner, soft cloths, and protective gloves.
Apply the Cleaner: Spray the cleaner onto a soft cloth. This controlled application prevents oversaturation and potential into hidden areas in the dryer that could potential cause problems later.
Gentle Cleaning Process: Gently rub the stained area with the cloth in circular motions. The goal is to lift the ink without harming the surface of the dryer drum. For stubborn stains, you may need to apply additional cleaner and repeat the process.
Rinsing Off Residue: After cleaning, it’s important to remove any leftover cleaning solution. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the interior of the dryer, ensuring no residue remains.
Drying the Area: Finally, use clean, dry towels to thoroughly dry the inside of the dryer. This step is crucial to prevent any moisture-related issues.
Ventilation: Throughout the cleaning process, make sure the area is well-ventilated.
Test Run: Once everything is dry, consider running the dryer empty for a few minutes to ensure there’s no residual cleaner smell.