How To Remove Sublimation Ink From Mugs (Easy Ways 2024)

Sometimes, you’re sublimating, and you design the wrong logo on your mug by mistake. You’re worried about how to remove sublimation ink from mugs. Everyone thinks it’s impossible to remove ink from sublimated mugs. But removing ink from different mugs is easy if you apply the proper methods.

Once, I sublimate the wrong design on my mug. So, I applied a lot of methods to remove it. After some research and experimentation, I found practical methods to help remove designs on printed sublimation mugs.

Read the article carefully to learn about best sublimation ink and the removal methods for different types of mugs.

What Is Sublimation Ink? Why Is It Difficult To Remove?

Sublimation ink is a type of ink that is used in printing different designs on coffee mugs, ceramic mugs, and tumblers. Sublimation ink is used in sublimating printing. Sublimating printing is a process of printing in which a solid is converted into a gas. A heat press is used to sublimate coffee mugs by using pressure. Sublimation printing needs a specific type of printer and a high temperature for printing.

How To Sublimate Mugs?

We can sublimate mugs by using different methods. Here I will explain two methods. mug press vs. convection oven. Once you know how printing works, finding the appropriate removal procedure becomes convenient.

Mug Press

First, you will create the design and then print it using a sublimation printer. Assemble the design and put on the heat tape. After that, use a mug press machine and place your mug. Apply the pressure according to the transfer paper. Then, use gloves, remove the mug, transfer the paper, and keep the mug in a cool place.

How To sublimate A Mug In An Oven

Some people want an easy method because they have no mug press machine. So, I have a solution for you. I used this method once in my life. I will tell you how to sublimate a mug without a mug press.

Create a design and wrap the mug by using the mug wrapping tap. Then, preheat the oven. Place the mug in the oven and heat it for 12 to 15 minutes. After that, use the gloves, remove the mug from the oven, and place it at a cool temperature. You can print beautiful designs using the best convection oven for sublimation mugs.

Sublimation Mug Care Instructions:

• · Sublimated printed mugs are microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Only use Top-Rack because excessive heat may reinstate the sublimation ink.

5 Methods For Removing Sublimation Ink From Mugs

Different methods will help you how to remove infusible ink from the mug.

Use of White Vinegar

White Vinegar is an easy method to remove sublimation ink. Take a bowl, fill it with vinegar, and soak your mug. Soak it overnight, and then use Scotch-Brite to remove it.

Using Nail Remover

Nail remover contains an acetone chemical. Dip the cotton ball with nail remover and roll it over the mug. After 5 minutes, remove the cotton ball from the mug and scratch the print with the cotton ball.

Using Baking Soda

Baking soda is the best method to remove sublimation on printed mugs. You can use this method in two ways.

1. You can mix baking powder with water, apply it with a soft cloth, and leave it for 5 minutes.
2. Sprinkle the baking soda directly on the surface and leave it for 5 minutes. After that, you’ll use a toothbrush and rub it with full force. This method will work.

Using The Heat Method

The heating method effectively works. You can apply this method by using a flame. You’ll place the area of the logo on the flame for about 2 to 4 minutes. Then use the Scotch-Brite to rub the logo. This method works.

Using A Paint Stripper

If none of those mentioned above methods works, you should use this method. Go to the market and buy a paint stripper. Apply the paint stripper to the sublimated coffee mug. Leave it for 30 to 40 minutes, and then use the scrapper to remove the paint. Use this method again and again until the logo is removed.

How To Remove Sublimation Ink From A Ceramic Mug?

We use two methods to remove sublimation ink from ceramic mugs. These are oven and dishwasher-safe. It requires less effort than other methods.

Oven Method

This is the easiest method. First, you will wash your ceramic mug with soap and water. Then, dry your mug and place it in a toaster or food maker oven. Set the higher temperature, like 400 and above. Bake your mug for about an hour. After one hour, please take out the mug and keep it at room temperature to cool down. When it cools down, use baking soda or lemon juice. Rub it with a soft cloth. The last step is to wash it with hot water.

This method will work because I have applied this method many times.

Dishwasher Method

The dishwasher method is another method for removing sublimation ink from polyester-coated mugs. You will need detergent and a toothbrush to apply this method. Put your ceramic mug on the lower rack of your dishwasher and start your dishwasher at a higher temperature. Don’t forget to put detergent in the dishwasher. Use this method 5 to 7 times to remove the ink. When you put your mug through the dishwasher several times, use a toothbrush and rub it to remove any remaining ink stains.

Removing Sublimation Ink From Metal Tumblers

For this method, first, you’ll need to understand how to sublimate a tumbler with a mug press.

• Create your design, wrap it around the tumbler, rotate it, and press for another 80-100 seconds.
• Once finished, remove the mug press from the mug and peel while still hot.
• Use extreme caution because the item will be scorching.

The removal method is simple; you’ll need white Vinegar and a large bowl. Fill the bowl with white vinegar and soak the infected area of the metal tumbler for about 80 minutes. After that, rub it with a soft cloth. Don’t rub with pressure. It will create striations on it. Suppose all the ink is not removed. Try this again.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Wrapping up

I expect that you learned a lot of techniques from this article. It will enhance your understanding of how to remove sublimation ink from mugs. I know very well how tricky it is to remove sublimated ink. if you also want read about best sublimation ink for epson the visit this article: Best Sublimation Ink For Epson

Therefore, if you follow the instructions properly, you should be able to remove the ink. I recommend using a dishwasher and vinegar solution to remove the sublimated ink. These two methods are more effective than others. However, use white Vinegar rather than apple cider vinegar.