There are a number of plastisol ink removers in the market, each unique in its properties. 

So you might be thinking about which one to choose among all the plastisol ink remover alternatives.

Plastisol Ink remover alternatives include Franmar Bean-e-doo Plastisol Ink Remover, ENVIROWIPE Nature’s Press Wash, Sunnyside Mineral Spirits Paint Thinner, Cleaner, and Degreaser. There are a number of other popular brand names also. They can be soybean-based, mineral spirits, or citrus-based.

To find out more about the alternatives and how to use them correctly, read the article below.

List of Alternatives of Plastisol Ink Remover

Following is a list of what you can use instead of plastisol ink remover.

NameType of solventPrice range
Franmar Color Change On Press Ink RemoverSoybean basedCheck Price
Plastisol Screen Wash by High ImpactSoybean based cleanerCheck Price
Easiway Plastisolv 842 On Press Cleaner$10.33/Quart
Ecotex Plastisol Press WashCitrus BasedCheck Price
Franmar Bean-e-doo Plastisol Ink RemoverSoybean basedCheck Price
FSIC Ink Degrader For Solvent and UV InksCitrus based cleaner$24-26/Quart
SCREEN WASH 2500 Citrus based cleaner$15-17/Quart 
ENVIROWIPE Nature’s Press WashSoy and Citrus based cleaner$23-25/ Quart
Sunnyside Mineral Spirits Paint Thinner, Cleaner and DegreaserMineral SpiritsCheck Price

Detailed Guide for Choosing Plastisol Ink Remover

So far, the alternatives for plastisol ink remover can be categorized as citrus-based cleaners, mineral spirits, and soybean-based cleaners. Here we take a look at the different cleaners in detail. 

Tools You Will Need Before Removing Plastisol Ink:

Before getting into the suggestions I would like you to get the following things together.

  • Shop Rag
  • Ink Card
  • Plastisol Ink Remover(s)

Franmar Color Change On Press Plastisol Ink Remover:

These cleaners do not have a strong or unpleasant smell, making them desirable. They work quickly and only a small amount is needed, meaning they are economically feasible. They are completely biodegradable and do not possess the environmental concerns of their alternatives. 

However, you can not use them to remove the heat tape marks.

How To Clean Franmar Color Change On Press Ink Remover:

Step 1: Pour a small amount of cleaner directly on the screen in ratio to the ink you need to remove.

Step 2:  Wipe the screen with a shop towel or cloth, to remove the ink and cleaner.

Step 3: Do the same on the back of the screen image.

Step 4: Wet a shop towel and use it to wipe both sides of the screen and leave it to dry.

Clean Franmar Color Change On Press Ink Remover
Source: feltmagnet.com

FSIC Ink Degrader For Solvent and UV Inks:

This ink remover has a citrus smell and the ability to emulsify the ink quickly. Being biodegradable, it does not pose a direct threat to the environment. In the steps below you can learn how to apply this kind of cleaner for removing ink. 

How to Use FSIC Ink Degrader For Solvent and UV Inks To Remove Plastisol Ink:

Step 1: You can pour the remover into a spray can if you want to use it as a spray. Otherwise, prepare a bath containing the remover. 

Step 2: Spray the remover all over the screen. Alternatively, if you are using a bath, immerse the screen in the bath completely and take it out after a few seconds. 

Step 3: Clean off the remover with a shop rag from the screen and leave it to dry. 

Screen Wash 2500:

This citrus-based solvent has low flammability, and toxicity and is completely biodegradable. It has the ability to also remove the ink that has dried up. For cured ink removal, you can leave this solvent overnight on the screen. The remover dries slowly and is soluble in water. Look below to know how to use it. 

How to Use Screen Wash 2500  to Remove Plastisol Ink:

Step 1: Remove any excess ink from the screen using an ink card. 

Step 2: Wear gloves and goggles before handling the solvent. You can either take the remover in a spray can and apply it as a spray on the screen. Or, you can pour it directly on the screen.

Step 3: Wash off residue remover from the screen with water. 

Plastisol Screen Wash by High Impact:

This environmentally friendly soy-based solvent dissolves ink quickly and is particularly designed to remove plastisol ink. This can also be used to remove screen prints from polyester.

How to Use Plastisol Screen Wash by High Impact to Remove Plastisol Ink:

Step 1: Spray or pour a small portion of remover onto the screen. 

Step 2: Use a rag or shop towel to scrub on both sides of the screen until it’s completely clean of ink.

Step 3: Rinse off the screen with water. 

Ecotex Plastisol Press Wash:

This solvent dries up quickly and is very good for removing plastisol inks. It has no toxicity or flammability issues and therefore is suitable for all settings. Since it comes in a press wash, you do not need wipes for using this. 

Know how to use this solvent from the steps below. 

How to Use Ecotex Plastisol Press Wash to Remove Plastisol Ink:

Step 1: Remove any excess ink from the screen using an ink card.

How to Use Ecotex Plastisol Press Wash to Remove Plastisol Ink
Source:

Step 2: Spray the press wash on your screen.

Spray the press wash on your screen
Source: Amazon

Step 3: Use a towel to clean up residual plastisol ink on both sides of the screen.

Use a towel to clean up residual plastisol ink
Source: Amazon

Step 4:  Leave the screen to dry for  5-10 minutes.

ENVIROWIPE Nature’s Press Wash:

This low-odor cleaning agent is particularly useful for removing plastisol inks. However, it is hazardous and flammable and therefore should be handled with care.  Take a look at its application procedure below. 

How To Use ENVIROWIPE Nature’s Press Wash For Plastisol Ink Removal:

Step 1: Remove excess ink from the screen. 

Step 2: Wear gloves, goggles, and a body suit to protect yourself from this chemical while cleaning. 

Step 3: On both sides of the screen, apply the press wash. 

Step 4: Use a wipe or squeegee to clean off residue cleaner from the screen.  

Franmar BEAN-e-doo Plastisol Ink Remover:

This solvent has a mild odor and cleans plastisol inks effectively. It does not quickly vaporize and is non-toxic, non-hazardous, and completely biodegradable. Know how to use them in the steps below. 

How To Use Franmar BEAN-e-doo Plastisol Ink Remover For Plastisol Ink Removal:

Step 1: Spray or pour a small portion of solvent onto the screen.

Step 2: Use a nylon brush or dedicated Biggie pad for scrubbing the screen to clean off plastisol ink.

Step 3: Do the same on the back of the screen. 

Step 4: Clean the screen on both sides using pressurized water. 

Sunnyside Mineral Spirits Paint:

As the name goes, SunnySide Mineral Spirits Paint is a type of mineral spirit. It does not have a strong odor like some other chemical solvents. While their price is lesser than the alternative cleaners, mineral spirits pose a threat to the environment. They are not completely biodegradable and hence may end up in rivers or stream discharges, where they are harmful to aquatic life. 

How To Clean Plastisol Ink Using Sunnyside Mineral Spirits Paint:

Step 1: Remove as much ink as possible from the screen for re-using. Place a newspaper under the screen and use a squeegee to remove excess ink.

Step 2: Wear gloves and a mask for safety, and pour the mineral spirits onto a cloth or paper towel. 

Step 3: Wipe the screen with the spirits. Repeat until all the ink is cleaned out. 

Step 4: Rinse the screen with water to remove mineral spirits residue.

However, if you need assistance you can refer to this guide on how to clean plastisol ink from screens using mineral spirits.

Easiway Plastisolv 842 On Press Cleaner:

This solvent has a mild odor and does not dry out fast. They are very environmentally friendly as well as cost-effective, making them a great choice as a plastisol ink remover. 

How to use Easiway Plastisolv 842 On Press Cleaner for Removing Plastisol Ink:

Step 1: Remove the excess ink from the screen. 

Step 2: Spray the Easiway Plastisolv 842 in ample amounts over the screen to cover the entire inked area. 

Step 3: Rub off the ink from the screen by wiping it with a cloth until there is no ink left on the screen. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can You Cure Plastisol Ink With A Heat Gun?

Yes, you can cure plastisol ink with a heat gun. To do this, apply the heat gun to the fabric until the ink is completely dry. The gun needs to be held exactly over the print at this time. Finally, finish off by doing a wash test. 

Does Plastisol Ink Wash Out?

No, plastisol ink does not wash out with water. This is because when heat is applied to cure the plastisol, the ink bonds permanently to the fibers of the fabric. However, if too much heat is applied or the fabric undergoes rough laundering, the plastisol ink design may show cracks. 

What Dissolves Printing Ink?

Isopropyl alcohol is a chemical that dissolves printing ink. However, they must be administered with caution. Hence, it is recommended to use a dropper or syringe to clean printing ink off from areas like printer heads. 

Conclusion

That was all about the different plastisol ink remover alternatives. Before you try them out to clean your screens, make sure you have noted the safety instructions. Be careful of the hazards and wear appropriate gear while cleaning. Good luck!