How to Clean Ink From Rubber Stamps

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Things You'll Need

  • Dish soap or bleach-free laundry detergent

  • Water

  • Paper towels

  • Baking soda

  • Toothbrush

  • Stamp cleaner

There are many different ways to clean a rubber stamp.

Cleaning rubber stamps is a simple, yet important process. If stamps are not properly cleaned, then there could be transfer of ink to your next project. The rubber of the stamp could become warped or damaged if ink is left on the stamp for too long. There are many different ways to clean a rubber stamp. Most craft stampers will find that they prefer one method over another. It is just a matter of figuring out which method works best for you.

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Cleaning with Soapy Water

Step 1

Mix dish soap or laundry detergent (as long as it is bleach-free) with water. Dip the stamp in the soapy water.

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Step 2

Allow stamp to soak for a moment, holding it so that any wood is not submerged in the water.

Step 3

Remove the stamp from the water and use the paper towels to wipe away the inky residue.

Cleaning with Baking Soda

Step 1

Make a paste with baking soda and water. The mixture should be the consistency of a thick paste and should stay on the rubber stamp without dripping off once applied. This is a good method for smaller stamps or for stamps with a lot of crevices.

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Step 2

Using a toothbrush, scrub the paste onto the stamp. Be sure to get some of the paste in all the nooks and crannies.

Step 3

Allow the paste to sit on the stamp for a few moments. Depending on the type of ink used and how much was used, it is possible that the paste will begin to take on the color of the ink on the stamp.

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Step 4

Rinse the stamp thoroughly in water. Be sure not to get the wooden part of the stamp wet, as it will warp the material.

Step 5

Dry the stamp with paper towels.

Using an Ink Remover

Step 1

Read the manufacturer's instructions completely before using any other product.

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Step 2

Dip the stamp in the ink remover. It is usually a nonalcoholic liquid that should remove the ink almost immediately.

Step 3

Use the paper towels to remove the ink remover. Some products will include a pad to use instead.

Tip

Stamp remover kits can be found at craft stores or ordered online.

Soap, water or baking soda should remove most common ink pigments and are inexpensive.

Warning

Always be sure any product you use does not have alcohol in its ingredients.

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