How To Remove Laundry Marker Stains From A Whiteboard

How to Remove Laundry Marker from Whiteboard

how to remove laundry marker from whiteboard

Laundry markers are even more long-lasting than the average permanent marker ink, unfortunately. Here are some good suggestions for removing laundry marker whiteboard stains:

  1. Try using a dark-colored dry-erase marker and scribble over the permanent marker stain.
  2. Next, utilize a whiteboard eraser and rub the stains away.
  3. Finish by giving the board a good wipe with a clean cloth or paper towel and whiteboard cleaner for a polished look. Often this will do the job.

What Markers Can You Use on a Whiteboard?

what markers can you use on a whiteboard

The short answer is that it’s best to ONLY use dry-erase markers on whiteboards. A dry-erase marker contains special erasable ink that sticks to the whiteboard’s surface without absorbing into it.

When buying markers for a whiteboard, don’t confuse “washable markers” with dry-erase ones. While washable children’s markers will come out of clothes and other fabric, the ink in these types of markers can dry quickly and stain the board.

Are Whiteboard Markers Harmful?

are whiteboard markers harmful

Yes, to a degree! Some whiteboard marker ink contains harmful chemicals such as methyl isobutyl ketone that can cause short-term side effects, like nausea, dizziness, headaches, and irritation to the eyes and nose.

I always make sure my dry-erase marker pens are free of any harmful chemicals, and in general, it’s best to use markers in moderation.

Long-term exposure to these chemicals and others are linked to conditions like an enlarged liver, abdominal pain, and even insomnia.

How Do You Clean a Whiteboard Eraser?

how do you clean a whiteboard eraser

After cleaning the whiteboard multiple times with a whiteboard eraser, it will collect marker ink residue, making it less effective at erasing. However, you can get your whiteboard eraser back to peak condition by cleaning it with a solution of water and a drop of mild detergent.

Just soak the eraser in the cleaning solution and gently scrub the felt in a circular motion.

How Do You Clean a Badly Stained Whiteboard?

how do you clean a badly stained whiteboard

Some swear that an ordinary rubber eraser can also get rid of marker stains. If the dry-erase marker trick didn’t work, try erasing the permanent marker stains with a regular eraser.

It may sound counterintuitive, but it often works.

If the permanent ink is especially stubborn, try using rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, or even nail polish remover. Apply the liquid to a cotton round and wipe away the stains.

Can You Remove Permanent Marker Stains from Plastic?

can you remove permanent marker stains from plastic

To remove permanent marker stains from plastic you can use the same technique mentioned for removing permanent ink from whiteboards:

  • Cover the permanent marker with a dry-erase marker
  • Next, rub it away with a paper towel or clean cloth. The permanent marker should fade away along with the dry-erase marker.
  • Repeat this step if required.

Rubbing alcohol or window cleaner may do the trick, especially if I combine those with a magic sponge. If all else fails, try dipping the magic sponge in alcohol, and it should remove even the most stubborn marker stains.

James Marshall

About the author

James is a business management professional and consultant with a former background in maintenance, repair, and hands-on projects. He enjoys DIY tasks and maintenance around the home as well as part-time writing. Read more »