Introduction
An ink tag is an anti-theft device that is attached to clothing items in stores. It contains ink that will be released if the tag is opened without first being deactivated. Clothing items with these tags are not able to be sold until the tag is removed.
If you purchase an item of clothing that has an ink tag still attached, you may need to know how to remove it yourself. There are several methods available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Read on to learn more about how to take off an ink tag from clothes.
Use a Pin to Remove an Ink Tag
Using a pin to remove an ink tag is one of the most common techniques. To do this, you will need a paperclip or safety pin. Follow these steps for best results:
- Straighten out the paperclip or safety pin and insert it into the small hole at the top of the ink tag
- Once the pin is inserted, press firmly against the back of the ink tag with your thumb
- Move the pin around inside the hole, pressing firmly against the back of the ink tag with your thumb as you go
- The ink tag should eventually open and come loose from the fabric
When using a pin to remove an ink tag, it is important to be careful not to puncture the ink container inside the tag. If the ink container is punctured, the ink will leak out and stain the clothing. It is also important to be gentle when pressing the pin against the back of the tag, as too much pressure can cause the tag to break.
Freeze the Tag with Ice Cubes
Another method for removing an ink tag is to freeze it with ice cubes. This technique works by shrinking the plastic casing of the ink tag, which makes it easier to remove. To use this method, follow these steps:
- Fill a bowl or cup with water and add several ice cubes
- Place the ink tag into the bowl or cup with the ice cubes and let it sit for 10-15 minutes
- Remove the ink tag from the bowl or cup and check to see if it has become loose
- If the ink tag is still attached, repeat the process until it comes loose
When using this method, it is important to make sure that the ink tag is completely submerged in the water. If it is not, the tag may not shrink enough to come loose.
Use a Hairdryer
Using a hairdryer is another effective way to remove an ink tag. To do so, follow these steps:
- Set the hairdryer to the highest setting and hold it approximately 4 inches away from the ink tag
- Slowly move the hairdryer around the tag, making sure to keep it at a steady distance
- Continue moving the hairdryer around the tag for 1-2 minutes
- Check to see if the ink tag has become loose
When using a hairdryer to remove an ink tag, it is important to take safety precautions. Make sure that the hairdryer is never held too close to the ink tag, as this could cause the ink to leak out and stain the clothing.
Apply Rubbing Alcohol
Applying rubbing alcohol is another way to remove an ink tag. To do this, follow these steps:
- Soak a cotton ball or paper towel in rubbing alcohol
- Place the soaked cotton ball or paper towel onto the ink tag
- Leave the cotton ball or paper towel on the ink tag for 1-2 minutes
- Remove the cotton ball or paper towel and check to see if the ink tag has become loose
This method works by dissolving the adhesive that holds the ink tag in place. It is important to make sure that the rubbing alcohol does not get on any other parts of the clothing, as it can damage the fabric.
Cut the Tag Off
If all else fails, you can always try cutting the ink tag off. To do this, you will need a pair of scissors or a sharp knife. Follow these steps for best results:
- Position the scissors or knife so that the blade is flush against the fabric
- Carefully cut around the ink tag, making sure to stay as close to the edge of the tag as possible
- Once the tag has been cut off, carefully remove any remaining pieces of plastic or adhesive
When using this method, it is important to be careful not to cut the clothing. If possible, it is best to practice on a piece of scrap fabric before attempting to cut the ink tag off of the clothing item.
Conclusion
Removing an ink tag from clothing can be a challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the steps outlined above, you can safely and easily take off an ink tag from clothes. Whether you choose to use a pin, freeze the tag with ice cubes, apply a hairdryer, rub with alcohol, or cut it off, you can rest assured that your clothing item will be free of ink tags in no time.
