How to Get Ink Out of Scrubs

If you’ve ever shoved a pen into your scrub pocket mid-shift and later found an ink mark, you know the frustration. Between patient rounds, charting and everything else on your plate, laundry is the last thing you want to think about. The good news? Most ink stains can be handled quickly—and without special cleaners—if you know what to do right away and once you’re home.

Cherokee women’s and men’s scrubs are made with durable, easy-care fabrics, so you’ve already got a head start. These fabrics are built to handle everyday messes, which means you don’t need an industrial laundry service to keep them looking fresh—you just need the right steps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through safe, effective ways to get ink out of scrubs, plus simple tricks to help prevent future pen mishaps.

Understanding Ink Stains on Scrubs

Not all ink stains are the same—and not all fabrics handle them the same way. Here’s a quick background on what makes ink cling (and what helps release it) to give you a better shot at saving your scrubs.

Why Ink is Stubborn

Ink is designed to last on paper, which unfortunately means it’ll stick around on fabric too. Ballpoint pens use oil-based pigments that sink deep into fibers, while gel pens are water-based but packed with strong dyes. Both bond quickly with fabric, especially if you don’t catch stains right away. And the darker the ink, the tougher it is to get out.

Fabric Types and Cleaning Considerations

Because scrubs are made from all types of different materials and blends, understanding your scrub fabric matters—and can ultimately make stain removal easier. An easy breakdown to remember:

• Polyester-rich blends: naturally resist deep staining and help colors stay vibrant (e.g. 95% polyester / 5% spandex)
• Nylon-Spandex blends: built for stretch and comfort, but need gentler care with strong cleaners (e.g. 86% nylon / 14% spandex)
• Cotton-Poly-Spandex twills: breathable and flexible, with fibers that release stains more easily than pure cotton (e.g. 55% cotton / 42% polyester / 3% spandex)

The good news is that Cherokee scrubs are made with machine-washable, easy-care materials designed for repeat cleaning without losing shape or color. That’s why most ink stains can be tackled right at home—no extra hassle needed.

First Response: Treating Ink Stains Immediately

The sooner you act, the better your chances of saving your scrubs. Even a quick fix on shift can make a big difference once you get home and wash them properly.

On-Shift Quick Fixes

When you spot an ink stain mid-shift, here’s how to keep it from spreading.

• Blot, don’t rub. Use a tissue, paper towel or cloth to gently press on the stain.
• Use alcohol wipes or hand sanitizer. Both contain alcohol, which helps break down ink pigments. Dab (don’t smear) the affected area.
• Work from the outside in. Start dabbing at the edges of the stain and move toward the center—this keeps the ink from spreading

Setting Yourself Up for Easy Cleaning at Home

Think of this as damage control—the goal is to keep the stain from setting until you can treat it more thoroughly later.

• Keep the fabric slightly damp until you can properly treat it.
• Avoid tossing stained scrubs into a hot dryer—heat will lock the stain in.
• Pre-treat as soon as possible once you’re off shift.

At-Home Methods for Removing Ink from Scrubs

Once you’re home, you’ve got more options for treating the stain. The method you choose depends on how fresh the ink is and what you have on hand. Here are a few tried-and-true ways to get your scrubs back in rotation.

Alcohol-Based Solutions

Alcohol is one of the most effective ways to break down ink pigments.

1. Place a paper towel under the stained area.
2. Dab rubbing alcohol (or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer) directly onto the stain.
3. Blot gently, switching to a clean spot on the paper towel as the ink lifts.
4. Rinse with cold water, then launder as normal.

Pro tip: For fabrics with a high spandex content, limit alcohol exposure and rinse quickly to prevent the fabric from drying.

Dish Soap & Vinegar Method

This gentle combo works best for smaller, fresher stains.

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap with 2 teaspoons of white vinegar.
2. Apply to the stain with a soft cloth.
3. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then rinse with cold water.

Launder on a gentle cycle.

Baking Soda Paste for Set-In Stains

If the stain’s been sitting for a while, baking soda can help lift it.

1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
2. Gently rub the paste into the stain with your fingers or a soft brush.
3. Let sit for 15–20 minutes, then rinse and launder as usual.

Easy-Care Advantage: Why Cherokee Scrubs Clean Up Better

One of the perks of investing in quality scrubs is knowing they’ll bounce back after life’s little accidents. Cherokee fabrics are designed to handle stains, frequent washes and the wear of long shifts—so you don’t have to stress about every spill or ink mark.

Built for Busy Clinicians

Cherokee fabrics are tested to meet strict shrinkage and durability standards, so they maintain their fit and color wash after wash. The polyester content in many styles helps resist deep staining, so your scrubs stay vibrant longer and ready for every shift.

Shop Cherokee Scrubs

Home Laundering Without the Hassle

Unlike some workwear that requires dry cleaning or special care, Cherokee scrubs are built for everyday laundry. They’re:

• Machine-washable
• Colorfast to keep shades bright
• Able to air-dry or tumble-dry on low without wrinkling

That means you can handle stains in your own laundry room—no special services required.

What Not to Do

When it comes to ink stains, a few common “hacks” can actually make things worse. Skip these methods so you don’t damage your scrubs while trying to save them.

Avoiding Fabric Damage

• Skip bleach on colored scrubs. It weakens fibers and strips color.
• Don’t scrub harshly with stiff brushes. This can cause pilling and create thin spots in the fabric.

Common Myths About Ink Stain Removal

• Toothpaste. Its mild abrasives may clean teeth, but they can wear down fabric.
• Nail polish remover. Acetone can discolor and weaken fibers.
• Hot water soaks. Heat locks in stains, making them nearly impossible to lift.

Preventing Future Ink Mishaps

The best way to deal with ink stains is to keep them from happening in the first place. A few small changes in how you carry your pens and handle laundry can save you from the headache later.

Pen Storage Solutions

Loose pens in pockets are usually the culprit. Try swapping them for:

• Badge reel pens
• Clipboards with pen loops
• Pocket organizers

Many Cherokee scrub tops feature secure pocket designs, which makes it easier to keep pens in place and organized.

Laundry Habits That Help

• Pre-treat visible stains before each wash
• Wash similar colors together to avoid dye transfer
• Use gentle detergents to protect the fabric’s integrity

Want more laundry know-how? Check out our guide on how to wash scrubs.

Knowing When It’s Time for New Scrubs

Even if you manage to lighten an ink stain, faint marks can still affect how professional your scrubs look—especially in patient-facing roles. At a certain point, replacing your set is the best option.

Think of it as a fresh start: new colors, updated fits and scrubs that haven’t been through a dozen stain battles already. By acting quickly when stains happen, you’ll extend the life of your uniform and keep it looking sharp, no matter how messy your shift gets.