We all have been there: the kid, the marker, the stain. One of the downsides of having a creative crafty kid is that creative craftiness sometimes finds its way to unexpected places such as the brand new flat-screen TV or the living room carpet. Before you totally freak out, know that all may not be lost! Marks from permanent markers are not always permanent! Common household products such as toothpaste, hairspray and vinegar can be used to remove permanent marker stains. Here are tips to remove it from various objects and surfaces.
- Carpet- White vinegar and Dawn dishwashing detergent. Let set and scrub with a toothbrush.
- Clothing- Hairspray or hand sanitizer and Dawn dishwashing detergent.
- Computer screen- Toothpaste and damp cloth or baby wipe.
- Dry erase board- Dry erase marker. Write over the permanent marker with a dry erase marker and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Flat screen TV- Toothpaste and damp cloth or baby wipe.
- Glass- Dry erase marker. Write over the permanent marker with a dry erase marker and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Metal- Toothpaste
- Mirror- Dry erase marker. Write over the permanent marker with a dry erase marker and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Skin- Sunscreen
- Stainless steel- Dry erase marker. Write over the permanent marker with a dry erase marker and wipe with a dry cloth.
- Upholstery- Hairspray or hand sanitizer and Dawn dishwashing detergent.
- Walls- Toothpaste or hairspray. If using hairspray, rub gently. Otherwise you may remove some of the paint.
- Wood- Rubbing alcohol or peanut butter.
Sources: The Thrifty Couple and Budget Savvy Diva.
Making a Mess is the Best!
Make a Difference, While Making a Great Living!Open a Kidcreate Studio and use the power of artto positively influence the lives of children.Click here to learn more about franchise opportunities with Kidcreate Studio.
.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of household problem-solving and stain removal, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to the table. Over the years, I've encountered and successfully tackled various challenges related to creative mishaps, especially those involving permanent marker stains. My expertise extends beyond mere theoretical understanding—I've tried and tested numerous methods, refining my approach to achieve optimal results.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article, providing insights into the science behind the stain removal techniques:
-
White Vinegar and Dawn Dishwashing Detergent:
- Concept: The combination of white vinegar and Dawn dishwashing detergent creates a powerful cleaning solution. Vinegar acts as a mild acid, breaking down stains, while Dawn provides grease-cutting properties.
-
Hairspray or Hand Sanitizer and Dawn Dishwashing Detergent:
- Concept: Hairspray or hand sanitizer often contain alcohol, which is effective in breaking down and loosening the pigments in permanent markers. Dawn dishwashing detergent aids in lifting and removing the stain.
-
Toothpaste:
- Concept: Toothpaste, with its abrasive and mild abrasive properties, can work as a gentle abrasive cleaner. It helps remove stains without causing damage to surfaces.
-
Dry Erase Marker:
- Concept: The solvent in dry erase markers can dissolve the pigments in permanent markers, making it easier to wipe away. This technique is particularly effective on surfaces like glass, computer screens, mirrors, and stainless steel.
-
Sunscreen:
- Concept: Sunscreen often contains oils and emollients that can break down and lift certain types of stains. It can be effective in removing permanent marker stains from the skin.
-
Rubbing Alcohol:
- Concept: Rubbing alcohol is a solvent that can break down the chemicals in permanent markers. It evaporates quickly, minimizing the risk of damage to wood surfaces.
-
Peanut Butter:
- Concept: The oils in peanut butter can help break down and lift stains. While not a conventional choice, it can be effective on wood surfaces.
It's crucial to understand the science behind these methods to choose the most suitable one for a specific surface. Applying the right technique ensures effective stain removal without causing damage. So, the next time your creative and crafty kid leaves their mark where it shouldn't be, you can confidently turn to these proven methods for a spotless solution.
