How to Remove Permanent Marker From Just About Anything

Permanent markers may seem, well, permanent, but with a little creativity and the right tools, you can erase those pesky stains from almost any surface. Here's your ultimate guide to tackling permanent marker mishaps:

1. Clothing

Rubbing Alcohol: Dab rubbing alcohol onto the stain with a cotton ball, blotting gently until the ink starts to lift. Wash as usual.
Hand Sanitizer: Apply a small amount of hand sanitizer to the stain, rub gently, and rinse before laundering.

2. Walls (Painted or Non-Porous)

Toothpaste and Baking Soda: Mix equal parts of toothpaste and baking soda, apply to the stain, scrub gently, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Magic Eraser: These spongy cleaning wonders work wonders on walls. Dampen the eraser and gently scrub.

3. Wood

Non-Gel Toothpaste: Apply a small dab to the marker stain, then rub with a soft cloth. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to make a paste, apply it to the stain, and gently scrub.

4. Plastic

Dry-Erase Marker: Draw over the permanent marker stain with a dry-erase marker and wipe clean. The solvents in the dry-erase ink help dissolve the permanent marker.
Rubbing Alcohol: A classic option—dab a small amount on the stain and wipe away with a cloth.

5. Glass or Mirrors

Acetone (Nail Polish Remover): Apply acetone to a cloth or cotton ball and wipe the marker stain clean.
Hairspray: Spray the area, let it sit for a minute, and then wipe off.

6. Skin

Baby Oil: Apply a small amount and gently rub the area until the marker fades. Wash with soap and water.
Rubbing Alcohol: This works well for tougher stains but may be harsh on sensitive skin, so use sparingly.

7. Fabric Furniture or Upholstery

White Vinegar: Soak a cloth in vinegar, blot the stain, and repeat until the ink fades. Avoid rubbing to prevent spreading the ink.
Dish Soap and Rubbing Alcohol: Mix a small amount of dish soap with rubbing alcohol, apply to the stain, and blot with a clean cloth.

8. Carpet

Hydrogen Peroxide: Apply a small amount to the stain and blot gently with a clean cloth. Test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t bleach the color.
Dish Soap Solution: Mix water and dish soap, dab onto the stain, and blot to remove ink.

Final Tips

Always test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first.
Be patient—some stains may require several rounds of cleaning before they fade completely.
Avoid harsh scrubbing, as this can damage delicate surfaces.

With these tips in your cleaning arsenal, even the most stubborn marker mishaps don’t stand a chance. Time to reclaim your surfaces like a stain-fighting superhero! 🦸‍♂️🦸‍♀️