STEP 1: PICK THE RIGHT INK CLEANER
Colin starts by using the right cleaner. He’s a fan of EasiWay Multi-Purpose, Saati IR26, and Franmar Haze Remover ES. These cleaners break down the ink pigments that get stuck in the mesh, making it easier to clean. Colin uses plenty of cleaner and suggests wiping it off with a 100% cotton shop towel or even an old T-shirt for best results.
STEP 2: FOCUS ON THE KNUCKLES OF THE MESH
Ink pigment gets stuck where the mesh threads overlap—think of it like dirt getting caught between rocks in a stream. Colin makes sure to clean both sides of the screen carefully, which helps remove the majority of the pigment and prevents stains. He mentions using Wilflex RIO Diamond Black for this demo because it’s known for leaving more pigment in the mesh, making it a great example to show how to clean deeply.
RELATED: BEST PRACTICES FOR CLEANING INK OFF SCREENS
STEP 3: MOVING TO THE DARKROOM
Next, Colin heads to the darkroom to take off the emulsion. He sprays the screen to remove the stencil using Sgreen Stripper, which helps break it down fast. Colin also notes that if your stencil comes off in strips or chunks, something may have gone wrong with the emulsion before or during exposure, and it’s worth keeping an eye on that process.
STEP 4: USE A PRESSURE WASHER
Colin’s best tool for the job? A pressure washer! He uses it to blast away the emulsion. A pressure washer makes a big difference during this step, and Colin recommends every shop invest in one to get the job done right.
STEP 5: HIT IT AGAIN WITH THE MULTIPURPOSE (HAZE REMOVER)
While it’s not shown in the video, since that screen came out soooo clean, you would normally hit the screen with your Haze Remover of choice. In this case, the Multipurpose (the same product we used to clean the screen with). This will finish the job of removing any Emulsion Haze or Ink Stain.
RELATED: DEHAZE, DEGREASE, DEGHOST WITH SGREEN STUFF
HANDLING TOUGH STAINS
Since the first screen came out so clean, Colin grabs a different screen that has definitely seen better days! If your screen looks close to this one: stubborn Emulsion Haze or Ink Stains (ghost images), there is a way to remove them that is NOT caustic. Colin grabs a melamine sponge, also known as a Magic Eraser. He applies some more EasiWay Multi-Purpose and scrubs gently. The sponge helps lift out any last bits of pigment. Colin advises being careful not to scrub too hard, though, as this could damage the mesh over time.
PREVENTING STAINS IN THE FUTURE
Cleaning your screen right after printing is key. The longer you wait, the tougher it is to get the ink out. If you have a stubborn screen, he recommends focusing on the squeegee side of the screen, where most of the pigment tends to settle.
WRAPPING IT UP
By the end, Colin’s screen is as clean as new—no emulsion haze or ink stains left behind. He credits the success to using the right products and tools, like EasiWay Multi-Purpose, Saati IR26, and Franmar cleaners, along with a solid pressure washer. Following these steps will help keep your screens in great condition for future runs.
Colin’s last tip? Invest in a pressure washer and stock up on the right cleaners and tools—they’ll make your life a lot easier.
Have a question you want Colin to Dive Deep on? Submit it here!