5 Best Ways To Remove Sublimation Ink From Mugs (2022)

Want to remove sublimation ink from mugs and make them brand new again?

Good!

This article will teach how to remove sublimation ink from mugs.

So Read On.

Here is the guide on how to sublimate mugs.

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Sublimation ink is used for printing images and designs on mugs and other substrates.

It creates a vibrant, durable, and permanent image resistant to fading and scratching.

However, sometimes it may be necessary to remove the ink from a mug, whether because of a sublimation printing mistake or because it gets dull over time.

In this article, I will discuss multiple ways to remove sublimation inks from the mug.

With patience, a few simple tools, and the proper techniques, you can easily remove the ink and restore your mug to its original state.

Why Remove Sublimation Ink from Mugs?

Removing sublimation ink from mugs is essential for several reasons.

First, it allows you to change or update your mug’s design.

If you want to switch to a different design or remove the current design, removing the ink is a necessary first step.

Second, removing sublimation ink can help to restore the mug to its original condition.

Over time, the ink can become dull or faded, and removing it can help make the mug look new.

Third, removing sublimation ink can prevent the ink from transferring to other objects.

Sublimation ink is permanent and difficult to remove, so if it comes into contact with other things, it can move to them and be difficult to remove.

Removing the ink from the mug can prevent this from happening.

Fourth, removing sublimation ink allows you to fix the sublimation mistakes on the mug.

Overall, removing sublimation ink from mugs is crucial to keep your cups looking their best and prevent the ink from transferring to other objects.

It may take time and effort, but the results are worth it.

1. Washing The Mug In Dishwasher

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To remove ink from a mug using a dishwasher, first, make sure that the mug is dishwasher safe.

Usually, ceramic mugs are dishwasher-safe.

Once you have confirmed that the mug is dishwasher safe, fill the dishwasher with other dishes as you normally would.

Place the cup in the dishwasher on the top rack, and ensure it is not blocking the spray arm.

Next, run the dishwasher on the normal cycle using a dishwasher detergent. The hot water and detergent will help to loosen and remove the sublimation ink from the mug.

After the dishwasher cycle is complete, remove the mug from the dishwasher and see if the ink is removed or not.

If the ink is still present, you may need to repeat the process or use a different method.

2. Using Vinegar

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To remove sublimation ink from a mug using vinegar, you will need the following supplies:

• Vinegar
• A bowl
• A sponge

First, pour vinegar into a bowl. Put the cup inside it and let it sit for about 30 minutes.

Next, dip a sponge into the vinegar and rub the mug. Be sure to use a gentle motion and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can damage the mug.

If the ink is not coming off, let the cup sit inside the vinegar for another 30 minutes and repeat the same procedure.

Once the ink has been removed, rinse the mug thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining vinegar or ink residue.

3. Using Baking Soda

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You will need the following supplies to remove ink from a mug using baking soda.

• Baking soda
• Water
• A bowl
• Scotch-Brite

First, mix some baking soda and water in a bowl to create a thick paste. Dip the scotch-brite into the baking soda paste and gently rub it on the mug.

Let the baking soda sit on the mug for a few minutes to allow it to break down the ink.

After a few minutes, use the scotch-brite to rub the area again. Add more baking soda paste if necessary.

Once the ink has been removed, wash the cup thoroughly with warm water.

4. Using Rubbing Alcohol

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Collect the following items to remove sublimation ink using rubbing alcohol:

• Rubbing alcohol
• Cotton balls or a clean cloth
• A bowl
• A sponge or scrub brush
• A rubber band

First, pour some rubbing alcohol into a bowl. Dip a cotton ball or cloth into the rubbing alcohol, and then use it to dab at the ink.

Once you have applied the alcohol, let it sit on the mug for a few minutes. After a few minutes, use a sponge to gently rub the area where the ink is.

If the ink is still not coming off, you can secure rubber bands around the mug to keep the rubbing alcohol in place while you remove the ink.

Once the ink has been removed, rinse the mug thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining alcohol or ink residue.

You can also use rubbing alcohol to remove sublimation ink from shirts.

5. Using High Grit Sandpaper

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First, take high grit sandpaper(above 1000 grit).

Then wet the mug and sandpaper. This will help to prevent the sandpaper from scratching or damaging the mug.

Next, use the sandpaper to sand the mug gently. Ensure to sand with light hands.

Wet the sandpaper again and repeat the same process until all the ink is removed.

Can You Re-sublimate Sublimation Mugs

Yes, you can re-sublimate sublimation mugs. However, it’s not recommended because the re-sublimated print will not be as bright and vibrant as the first one.

If you want to re-sublimate a sublimation mug, you must remove the existing design first.

Once you remove the old design, you can use a sublimation printer and transfer paper to apply a new design to your tea or coffee mug.

When re-sublimating the mugs, must check these tips to make sublimation brighter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: How To Remove Sublimation Ink From Mugs

That’s all; now you know how to remove sublimation ink from mugs. So, you can save those favorite mugs and coffee cups.

It may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, you can remove the sublimation prints in minutes.

You can try any of the above methods to remove sublimation ink from mugs.

However, I recommend using baking soda or vinegar as they are readily available at home.

You must let me know if I missed any method in the comments.