How to remove permanent marker from any surface
Permanent marker stains can be removed if treated correctly and quickly.
Alcohol is usually the most effective solution.
Apply with a cotton ball.
Rub gently until the ink fades.
For walls and plastic:
Use white toothpaste or toothpaste mixed with baking soda.
For clothes:
Place a towel under the stained area.
Apply alcohol and press (don’t rub hard).
Wash afterward.
For wood and screens:
Use a small amount of product.
Clean very carefully.
Avoid using acetone or bleach.
Acting fast and using the right product increases success.
Important to keep in mind when learning How to remove permanent marker
First test on a small area that is not visible.
Do not rub hard at the beginning, go little by little.
Use white cloths or paper to avoid color transfer.
Act quickly: the fresher the marker, the easier it comes off.
Demonstration of Proper Use to Remove Permanent Marker
Different surfaces need different methods for How to remove permanent marker
Hard surfaces (wall, table, plastic, metal, ceramic)
Alcohol (the best method for How to remove permanent marker)
• Isopropyl alcohol or regular alcohol
• Cotton or cloth
Toothpaste (white, not gel)
Ideal for painted walls and plastic.
• Apply a small amount
• Rub with a brush or cloth
• Clean with a damp cloth
Baking soda + toothpaste
For difficult stains:
• Mix equal parts
• Apply
• Rub for 1–2 minutes
• Clean
Spray deodorant
Yes, the same one you use every day.
• Spray a little
• Wait 30 seconds
• Clean
🪵 Wood
Be careful, wood is delicate.
Use:
• Alcohol with a barely damp cloth
• Rub gently
• Dry quickly
If the wood is varnished, it works better.
How to use it: Moisten the cotton and rub gently in circles. You will see how the ink transfers to the cotton.
👕Clothes and fabrics
Recommended method: Alcohol
• Place paper or a towel under the stain
• Apply alcohol to the ink
• Press (do not rub hard)
• Wash normally
Do not dry the garment until the stain has disappeared.
🛋️ Sofa and upholstery
• Use alcohol or white vinegar
• Apply with a cloth
• Dab gently
• Do not soak the fabric
📱 Screens (phone, TV, laptop)
Products you should NOT use
❌ Acetone on plastic or screens
❌ Metal scouring pads
❌ Bleach
❌ Abrasive products
It is very important not to use products without proper knowledge, as you could cause much worse stains.
What happens if the stain is on the skin and how to remove permanent marker safely?
If the stain is on the skin, don’t be afraid, it is not toxic and it will go away. In adults, the most effective thing is to use alcohol, hand sanitizer, or makeup remover. Put a little on a cotton pad and rub gently in circles, the ink starts to come off little by little. Olive oil, coconut oil, or body lotion also work, because they dissolve the ink. Wash afterward with water and soap. Sources
What to do in cases of children or babies
In babies and children between 1–5 years old these stains are common since they tend to play with whatever they have at hand. We must be more delicate, do not use alcohol or strong products, use baby oil, coconut, or olive oil, clean gently and then wash with water and mild soap. Do not rub hard, if a shadow remains it will disappear on its own in a few days. If there is irritation or it is near the eyes, consult a pediatrician.
