How to Remove White-Out Stains From Clothes, Carpet, and Hard Surfaces

Before You Begin

A variety of cleaners and stain removers are effective in removing correction fluid, but many of them can also remove the color from fabric and other materials. That's why it's important to test any stain remover in an inconspicuous area to make sure it's safe to use on the material.

Once you apply a remover to the dried white-out, it will begin to dissolve into a slurry similar to diluted white paint. This is why you should always work from the outside to the center of the stain, to keep the slurry contained as much as possible while you lift it from the surface.

Generally, you have to be more careful with fabric and other soft materials than with hard surfaces. Lubricants such as WD-40 work on fabric and carpet, but they're petroleum-based and can leave an oily stain on the material. Acetone can dissolve acetate, triacetate, or modacrylic fabrics. Always spot-test first to be sure.

How to Remove White-Out From Clothing

1. Apply a Solvent

   Dip a cotton swab into a commercial adhesive remover (such as Motsenbocker's Lift Off) or a household solvent, such as rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover (with acetone). Dab the white-out stain with the swab, working from the outside of the stain toward the center.

2. Reapply the Solvent

   Let the treated stain sit for one minute, or as directed by the manufacturer, then dab again with a swab and the remover until the white-out is dissolved and the stain is mostly gone.

3. Rinse the Fabric

   Rinse the fabric under warm water. If solid pieces of white-out remain, repeat the dabbing process with the remover and swab, then rinse again with warm water.

4. Pretreat the Stain

   Apply your favorite laundry stain remover to the stained area and let it sit for 15 minutes or as directed.

5. Wash and Dry

   Wash the clothing in warm water, using your regular detergent. Confirm that the white-out stain is completely gone before drying the clothing. If there's any doubt, air-dry the item, then check again for the stain. Air-drying won't set the stain (if any remains) like the heat of the clothes dryer will.

How to Remove White-Out From Hard Surfaces

If white-out gets on hard surfaces, like a countertop or floor, you can remove it with this method and these materials.

1. Scrape It Off

   Scrape up the dried white-out with a plastic scraper or old credit card. Don't use metal tools, which can scratch or gouge the surface.

2. Hit It With Solvent

   Apply a commercial adhesive remover (such as Motsenbocker's Lift Off) directly to the white-out and let it sit for about one minute or as directed by the manufacturer. Alternatively, you can use WD-40, rubbing alcohol, or nail polish remover (with acetone), as long as it won't damage or stain the surface.

3. Wipe It Up

   Wipe up the white-out and remover with a clean rag, working from the outside of the stain toward the center. Repeat the same process as needed until the stain is gone.

4. Clean the Surface

   Clean the surface with water or a suitable detergent, wiping with a clean rag. WD-40 and some other products leave an oily residue that should be removed.

Remove White-Out From Carpet

When white-out accidentally ends up on your carpet, it may be a relief to know that it's not impossible to get out. Follow these steps.

1. Scrape and Vacuum

   Scrape or scoop up any wet or loose white-out, using a spoon. Be sure to work from the outer edges of the stain toward the center, to prevent spreading the stain. Vacuum up all loosened dry material.

2. Apply a Solvent

   Dampen a clean white cloth with rubbing alcohol, dry cleaning solvent, or a citrus-based stain lifter. Carefully blot the stain with the cloth to remove the white-out. Repeat with fresh alcohol and a clean area of the cloth until the stain is gone. Do not over-wet the carpet or pour alcohol or any other solvent directly onto the stain because it can damage the carpet backing.

3. Blot to Rinse

   Remove the alcohol by blotting with a clean cloth dampened with plain water or club soda. Water or club soda won't damage the carpet or backing, but it's best not to saturate the carpet; patiently blot instead.

4. Vacuum to Fluff

   Vacuum the carpet to fluff the fibers, and let the carpet dry completely before walking on it.