While we love pigment ink for its water and fade resistance, it can be difficult to remove with water alone if allowed to dry out on nibs. Our ink cleaning solutions are designed to remove dried ink and rejuvenate clogged nibs, so you can enjoy our pigment inks with peace of mind.
Our ink cleaning solutions are recommended for use with Kakimori pigment ink, fountain pens and rollerball pens to:
- Improve poor ink flow
- Change the ink colour in a rollerball pen (fountain pens can be simply rinsed in water)
There are two types of ink cleaning solutions. Each has its own cleaning method, so please check the instructions below.
Kakimori ink cleaning solution (left), Rollerball ink cleaning solution (right)
- Kakimori ink cleaning solution
Suitable for all Kakimori pens (cleaning method varies for each pen). Not recommended for pens by other brands - Rollerball ink cleaning solution (discontinued)
Suitable for Kakimori Rollerball pen (clear model) only
How to use the ink cleaning solution
What you need:
・Pen to be cleaned
・Ink cleaning solution
・Tissues
・Cup (for Rollerball ink cleaning solution)
Step 1: Pre-wash
Remove the converter and rinse the nib under running water. Point downwards and run water through the nib.
Step 2: Soak
Kakimori ink cleaning solution:
Place the nib, pointing down, directly in the ink cleaning solution bottle. If the nib floats, close the lid on the bottle and gently shake up and down until the nib is completely immersed. Leave to soak for 9-12 hours.
Rollerball ink cleaning solution:
Place the nib in a cup and fill with enough undiluted solution to cover the nib. Leave to soak overnight for approx. 12 hours or as needed.
Step 3: Rinse
Rinse under running water as per step 1. The solution may leave a white powdery residue if allowed to dry. Rinse the nib thoroughly. Wash hands thoroughly after rinsing.
Place a tissue over the nib and shake vigorously to remove any ink or water residue.
Step 4. Refill
Refill your pen (see instructions below for each type of pen).
Ink will be watery at first from residual water from the previous step. The original ink consistency will return with use. To prevent nib damage from friction, avoid applying excessive pressure until the ink reaches full viscosity.
How to refill a fountain pen
How to refill a rollerball pen
Tip: How to clean a dip pen
Kakimori ink cleaning solution can be used to remove stubborn dried ink from dip pen nibs. Gently clean with a toothbrush and a little solution, without soaking. Avoid soaking brass nibs as they may discolour.
