Kneaded erasers or gum erasers that you find at art supply stores don’t work very well to remove white-out. Gum erasers crumble too easily and kneaded erasers are designed to lift pencil or graphite. Note that this method works for white-out correction tape only. Unfortunately, if you use liquid white-out on paper, you won’t be able to remove it.
You can also try to scrape the white-out correction tape or fluid using your fingernail or a butter knife. However, it’s really easy to accidentally damage the paper, so scrape gently if you try this.
Let the fresh ink dry completely before you handle the paper. This way you won’t accidentally smear the ink.
You can tell the white-out is dry when it doesn’t feel tacky or soft to the touch anymore.
Do not wet the paper towel before adding the soap, as it will dilute the soap, making it less effective. Any liquid soap will work for this, but dish soap is especially good at breaking down stains like white-out.
If you spilled a lot of liquid paper, you might have to scrub the area a little harder, and it might take longer.
If you have a large stain, it may be easier to work in small sections rather than trying to tackle the whole thing at once.
If you’re in a hurry, rub the area with an ice cube to help it harden more quickly. [8] X Research source
You could also use a paint scraper, a credit card, or any other dull, flat surface. Don’t use anything sharp like a butcher’s knife or scissors, which could tear the garment.
If the product is water-based, it will usually say so in the product name or be clearly advertised on the label. If the label doesn’t specify which one it is, it’s probably oil-based.
Check to ensure the stain is gone before you put the clothes in the dryer, otherwise, the stain could set in and may become permanent.
If the stain is still present, apply more stain remover and wipe it off again after 1 minute. You can also sponge amyl acetate, which is a powerful stain remover used by dry cleaners, onto the stain. Amyl acetate is very strong, so test it on an inconspicuous area first and work in a ventilated area. [13] X Research source
If you’re using powdered laundry detergent, you should wet the clothes before treating the stain. This will help the powdered detergent dissolve and soak into the fabric. [14] X Research source If you prefer liquid detergent, there is no need to wet the garment first.
Rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly. This makes it an ideal solvent for use on carpets, since most other cleaners have to be washed away. [16] X Research source Try to treat the stain as quickly as possible. Once it sets in, it can be very difficult to remove.
Flush the area with water when you’re finished. If you’re using paint remover or turpentine, work in a well-ventilated area, avoid prolonged skin exposure, and do not allow the chemicals to splash into your eyes.
Use a clean cloth to wipe away the residue as you work so the white-out doesn’t smear.
It may help to use an upholstery brush to help loosen the fibers on your upholstery.
