Need to erase, remove, or clean up Dusty layout ink after a print? This article explains which ink types and surfaces are generally erasable and which cleaning methods work best.
Dusty Robotics offers several ink types and colors for your layout needs. Some inks can be erased on some surfaces. But because surface types, coatings, and treatments vary so widely, Dusty does not guarantee that our ink is permanent or that it can be erased. Always run a small test on your own surface before relying on any method below.
⚠️ Test first. Before erasing ink across a large area, test your chosen method on a small, out-of-the-way spot. Results vary by ink type, surface condition, porosity, and how long the ink has been down.
Ink types generally considered erasable
The recommendations below reflect what Dusty has found effective on tested surfaces using Dusty-provided ink.
| Ink type | Erasable? |
|---|---|
| Black, water-based | Generally erasable |
| Red, water-based | Generally erasable |
| Blue, water-based | Generally erasable |
| Black, solvent-based | Not considered erasable except on very smooth or high-gloss surfaces |
Surfaces generally considered erasable
Using the ink types above, these surfaces are generally erasable:
- Smooth troweled concrete
- Polished concrete
- Metal casting beds
- High-gloss plastics or other synthetics
Rough, porous, sealed, or clear-coated surfaces hold ink much longer and may not fully release it. Clear sealers and clear coats make ink far more permanent.
Cleaning agents and methods
Everyday cleaning agents
These are generally effective under the ink-type and surface conditions listed above.
- Soap and water (with an abrasive sponge pad). On high-gloss, polished-concrete, or other smooth surfaces, soap and water scrubbed with an abrasive sponge pad is generally enough to erase the water-based inks listed above.
- Zep Citrus Cleaner or another solvent degreaser. This is the most effective agent for removing ink.
- It is typically required to remove ink from moderately smooth troweled concrete.
- Works best if you let the degreaser soak into the ink for about 20 seconds before scrubbing.
- It can also be used in cleaner/scrubber (zamboni-style) machines with light dilution.
- Always follow the manufacturer's product instructions and your site's safety requirements first.
Higher-impact removal (stubborn or solvent ink)
If the ink is solvent-based, has cured for a long time, or sits on dense, low-porosity concrete, the everyday agents above may not be enough. These methods remove more aggressively:
- Pressure washing. Effective on both water-based and solvent-based ink. Use moderate pressure to avoid etching the surface.
- Mechanical abrasion (floor scrubber or light grinding). Fully removes ink. Typically used only when required for a finish.
What does not work well
- Waiting for solvent-based ink to "wash off" in light rain.
- Waiting for ink to disappear on its own from sealed or polished slabs.
- Harsh acids — these can permanently damage concrete. Do not use them.
Best practices
- Choose the right ink for the job. Use water-based ink when easy removal matters.
- Test on a small area first, every time.
- Use clear coats for higher durability.
- Align with the GC early. Set expectations on ink removal before you print.
- Plan around finishes. If grinding or polishing is already scheduled, manual ink removal is usually unnecessary.