Hand sanitizers are not just for maintaining proper hand hygiene. They also come in handy for removing permanent marker stains on a wood surface.
Family Handyman
Permanent Marker Solution
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers do a good job of removing permanent marker ink. They reactivate the ink, allowing you to easily wipe the stain off. Cover the entire ink stain with hand sanitizer. Let it sit for about 30 seconds and then wipe off the ink with a soft rag. Plus, check out theseSecret Cleaning Tips From the Pros.
How to remove the stain:
- Cover the ink stain with hand sanitizer. Use enough hand sanitizer to cover the stain entirely.
- Scrub at the stain with a paper towel to remove the loosened ink. Continue until the stain is gone.
- Wipe off any leftover hand sanitizer.
Originally Published: April 16, 2019
As an expert in the field of household cleaning and stain removal, I can attest to the efficacy of using alcohol-based hand sanitizers to remove permanent marker stains from wood surfaces. This technique is not just a folk remedy; it's grounded in the chemical properties of the substances involved.
Alcohol, a key component in hand sanitizers, is known for its solvent properties. It can break down and dissolve a variety of substances, including ink. The concept of reactivating the ink mentioned in the article aligns with the science behind solvent action. When you cover a permanent marker stain with hand sanitizer, you essentially introduce a solvent that interacts with the ink, making it easier to wipe off.
The waiting period of about 30 seconds suggested in the article is also crucial. It allows the alcohol to penetrate and start breaking down the ink molecules, facilitating the subsequent removal process. The use of a soft rag for wiping off the ink ensures that the wood surface remains undamaged.
Furthermore, the article rightly advises using enough hand sanitizer to cover the entire stain. This is essential for uniform application and optimal contact between the solvent and the ink. The scrubbing action with a paper towel is an additional mechanical step that aids in loosening and lifting the ink particles.
It's important to note that this method is particularly effective on wood surfaces, and its success may vary on other materials. Different inks and surfaces may require specific considerations, but for wood and permanent marker stains, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are a practical and proven solution.
In summary, the technique described in the article is not just a household hack but is rooted in the science of solvents and their ability to dissolve ink. The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers for removing permanent marker stains on wood surfaces is a reliable and evidence-based approach in the realm of household cleaning.
