What Removes Permanent Marker?
If you have kids and permanent markers, you know what a dangerous combination the two can be. Discovering a toddler covered in black marks, a white carpet with a trail of marker or some newly drawn artwork on a living room wall can seem hopeless. Luckily, the permanent marker isn't as permanent as it claims to be. With some scrubbing, blotting and a variety of unexpected tools, removing the marker from a variety of surfaces will save you the trouble and cost of replacing the damaged goods. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
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Many people swear by these cheap disposable sponges. It's no wonder they call them magic. Use them on hard surfaces like tile, walls and plastic. Don't try to use it on skin, as it may be too abrasive and cause skin irritation. Found at most grocery and department stores, these sponges are available from different brands also.
Rubbing Alcohol
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With some scrubbing, basic rubbing alcohol can usually remove permanent marker. Pour some on a paper towel and start scrubbing. This method can be used on a variety of surfaces, even skin. Just be sure to be gentle when rubbing it on skin and make sure to moisturize afterwards, as rubbing alcohol is very drying. Use caution if using it on someone's face, especially a child, as sensitive skin may have a bad reaction to rubbing alcohol.
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Toothpaste
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It seems that rubbing toothpaste on the stained area, letting it sit for a few minutes and then scrubbing it out effectively removes permanent marker. Just make sure to remove all of the toothpaste from the area after scrubbing. Use plain white toothpaste, not the gel or anything with an abrasive quality. This can also be used on skin, but may be irritating to sensitive skin.
Oil
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Oil-based products also work well at removing a permanent maker stain. Try using sunscreen, hand lotion, vegetable oil or WD-40 on the stain. Do a spot test first, so you don't do further unnecessary damage to furniture or carpeting. This may work better on hard surfaces, as it can be hard to remove from fabrics and carpeting.
Clothing
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If you have permanent marker stains on clothes or other fabric, it can easily be removed in the washing machine. Different commercial laundry stain removers often work. Another option is to try soaking the stained portion of the fabric in an oil-based cleaner like Lestoil. Then put it in the wash cycle and check the stain. If the stain is still there, do not dry it. The heat from the dryer will seal in the stain. Instead, try a different stain removal option and wash again.
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