How do I remove ballpoint pen ink from my iMac keyboard?

How to remove ballpoint pen ink from imac keyboard?



[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Original Title: Ink removal


iMac 24″, macOS 26.0

Posted on Feb 2, 2026 8:26 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 2, 2026 8:38 AM

what forum says

pen mark on macbook - Apple Community


what youtube says

Macbook Pro How to remove marker pen ballpoint biro or permanent ink from Aluminum Cover


what AI says


"

To remove ballpoint pen ink from an iMac keyboard, gently rub the affected keys with a cotton swab or microfiber cloth dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Alternatively, a slightly damp Mr. Clean Magic Eraser can remove stubborn marks, while hand sanitizer is also effective. Do not spray liquids directly onto the keyboard to avoid damage. 

Steps for Cleaning Ink Off iMac Keyboard:

  • Prep: Turn off the keyboard and unplug it (or remove batteries).
  • Isopropyl Alcohol (Best Method): Apply a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol to a Q-tip, cotton ball, or microfibre cloth. Gently rub the ink mark until it fades.
  • Magic Eraser: Lightly dampen a Magic Eraser, squeeze out excess water, and gently rub the pen marks.
  • Hand Sanitizer: Apply a small amount of sanitizer to the stain, let it sit for a minute, and wipe clean.
  • Final Step: Wipe the keys with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. 

Important Tips:

  • Do not use harsh solvents or excessive liquid.
  • If the ink is on the screen, use extreme caution; a dry microfiber cloth is preferred over alcohol.
  • For persistent stains on plastic, a dab of acetone-free nail polish remover may work, but test on an inconspicuous spot first. 

"

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 2, 2026 8:38 AM in response to ACVC

what forum says

pen mark on macbook - Apple Community


what youtube says

Macbook Pro How to remove marker pen ballpoint biro or permanent ink from Aluminum Cover


what AI says


"

To remove ballpoint pen ink from an iMac keyboard, gently rub the affected keys with a cotton swab or microfiber cloth dampened with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Alternatively, a slightly damp Mr. Clean Magic Eraser can remove stubborn marks, while hand sanitizer is also effective. Do not spray liquids directly onto the keyboard to avoid damage. 

Steps for Cleaning Ink Off iMac Keyboard:

  • Prep: Turn off the keyboard and unplug it (or remove batteries).
  • Isopropyl Alcohol (Best Method): Apply a small amount of 70% isopropyl alcohol to a Q-tip, cotton ball, or microfibre cloth. Gently rub the ink mark until it fades.
  • Magic Eraser: Lightly dampen a Magic Eraser, squeeze out excess water, and gently rub the pen marks.
  • Hand Sanitizer: Apply a small amount of sanitizer to the stain, let it sit for a minute, and wipe clean.
  • Final Step: Wipe the keys with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth. 

Important Tips:

  • Do not use harsh solvents or excessive liquid.
  • If the ink is on the screen, use extreme caution; a dry microfiber cloth is preferred over alcohol.
  • For persistent stains on plastic, a dab of acetone-free nail polish remover may work, but test on an inconspicuous spot first. 

"

How do I remove ballpoint pen ink from my iMac keyboard?

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