How to Remove Permanent Marker From Carpet

For those out there with "carpet artists"--kids who find it amusing to use permanent markers on carpeted floors--there is relief for parents. Permanent markers have been leaving stains and irreversible smudges since 1890, the year when the marker was first created. Impervious to water, this heavy duty writing utensil is even able to write on metal and stone, but don't tell your kids that. Today there is an easy way to remove unwanted permanent marker art from places it shouldn't be such as carpet. Parents in 1890 weren't quite so lucky.

Things You'll Need

• Non oily hairspray Rubbing alcohol Sponge Clean white cloth

Instructions

1. Spray a non-oily hairspray or dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain with a soft, clean white cloth.

2. Allow the hairspray or rubbing alcohol to sit on the stain for thirty minutes to an hour.

3. Blot the stain with a damp sponge or a soft clean wet cloth.

4. Rinse the cloth or sponge under running water and blot again.

5. Repeat the process if the stain isn't completely lifted.

Tips & Warnings

• Nail polish remover with acetone is also very useful in removing permanent marker stains. If there is residual that won't lift--and it isn't too deep into the carpet--cutting the stained ends off gently with scissors will remove any traces of the marker completely.

• Do not try to remove the stain with a dyed cloth. The colors may transfer to the carpet, and that can make the stain worse.