Ink spot

On either fabric or carpet, blot ballpoint-pen ink spots with a clean, white cloth moistened with plain rubbing alcohol. Test the fabric in an inconspicuous location; dilute the alcohol with two parts water if the fabric isn’t colorfast or is made of acetate.

As ink is drawn into the cloth, repeat with clean sections until ink no longer wicks away from the spot. Don’t scrub the spot — scrubbing can damage fabrics and is likely to spread the ink.

If some of the spot remains on carpeting, switch to a solution of dishwashing liquid and water, and continue blotting as above. Blot with plain water and blot dry when finished.

The same technique can be used on clothing, or you can launder the item immediately. If that’s not practical, soak the garment in a solution of water and a small amount of laundry detergent until it can be washed. To boost the soak for periods no longer than several hours, consider adding a small amount of enzyme-based laundry spot remover (Biz or Shout) to the water; mix well.

Felt-tip pen ink can be blotted as above with an all-purpose cleaner such as Fantastik or diluted hand dishwashing liquid. Blot or rinse with cold water. Launder or soak garments immediately.

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Jeff Bredenberg, editor, in Clean It Fast, Clean It Right: The Ultimate Guide to Making Everything You Own Sparkle & Shine.