How to Remove Crayon From Upholstery

Treat crayon stains when they are fresh.

Crayons come in a multitude of colors and are often one of the first writing implements that children learn to use. However, accidents can happen, and the bright colors that look so charming on paper are disheartening when they appear on your furniture upholstery. While crayon stains take a little work to remove from fabric surfaces, the task is achievable with cleaning supplies that can help to dissolve the waxy material.

Things You'll Need

• Dull knife
• Paper towel
• Oil-based lubricating spray
• Towels
• Stiff-bristled brush
• Liquid dish soap
• Water

Instructions

1. Place the blade of a dull knife, such as a butter knife, onto the upholstery at one side of the crayon stain. Bear down with slight pressure while you scrape the knife over the crayon. Wipe the knife on a paper towel to remove the residue, and repeat until no more wax comes off on the knife. Use care as you do this so that you do not tear the upholstery.

2. Shake up a can of oil-based lubricating spray and direct it only at the crayon stain on the upholstery. It's a good idea to lay towels over the remainder of the fabric to protect it as you spray. Allow the solution to sit for 5 minutes to dissolve the crayon wax.

3. Scrub the crayon stain gently with a stiff-bristled brush, using circular motions, and then blot it with a clean white towel to soak up the crayon coloring.

4. Repeat the process of spraying and scrubbing until very little crayon stain remains on the upholstery.

5. Squeeze ¼ tsp. of liquid dish soap onto the stain and re-scrub the area again with the brush until the area suds up and the stain is removed.

6. Hold a fresh towel under running water until it is saturated. Wring the towel out and blot the upholstery thoroughly to remove all traces of the soap. Allow the upholstery to dry.

References

• Crayola: Stain Removal Suggestions
• Mrs. Clean: Tips for Removing Crayon Stains