Permanent marker stains can feel like, well, a permanent problem—but they don’t have to be. Whether your walls have become an accidental canvas, your clothes have taken a hit, or your wooden furniture has a few unwanted doodles, there are ways to get rid of those stubborn marks. No matter if you’re dealing with permanent marker stains inan apartment in Boise, or a rental in Greenville, ApartmentGuide is here to help you navigate the process. Below, we’ll explore effective methods for different surfaces.
Quick summary
- Hard surfaces: Use rubbing alcohol or a dry-erase marker
- Clothing: Try hairspray or acetone
- Walls: Magic Eraser and toothpaste work best
- Wood: Olive oil and baking soda can help
- Skin: Baby oil or hand sanitizer removes ink safely
1. Removing permanent marker from hard surfaces (plastic, glass, metal, and whiteboards)
Permanent marker may seem stubborn, but these methods can lift ink from non-porous surfaces.
Method 1: Rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
- Apply rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to a cotton ball or paper towel.
- Gently rub the stained area in circular motions.
- Wipe away residue with a clean cloth.
- For stubborn stains, let the alcohol sit for a few minutes before wiping.
Method 2: Dry-erase marker
- Color over the permanent marker stain with a dry-erase marker.
- Wipe it off with a whiteboard eraser or cloth.
- Repeat if necessary.
This works best on glossy surfaces like whiteboards and laminated finishes.
Method 3: Baking soda and water paste
- Mix equal parts of baking soda and water to create a paste.
- Scrub the stain with a cloth or sponge.
- Wipe away with a damp cloth.
For extra cleaning power, add a drop of dish soap to the paste before scrubbing.
2. Removing permanent marker from fabric and clothing
Ink stains on fabric require quick action—try these solutions before tossing your clothing in the wash.
Method 1: Rubbing alcohol or acetone (nail polish remover)
- Place a paper towel under the stained fabric.
- Dab rubbing alcohol or acetone onto the stain with a cotton ball.
- Blot, don’t rub, until the stain lifts.
- Wash the fabric in cold water.
Test a small hidden area first to ensure the fabric doesn’t fade or get damaged.
Method 2: Hairspray
- Spray alcohol-based hairspray directly onto the stain.
- Blot with a clean cloth.
- Rinse with cold water and wash as usual.
Use a hairspray with a high alcohol content for better results.
3. Removing permanent marker from walls
Walls are tricky surfaces, but the right approach can erase those stains without damaging paint.
Method 1: Magic eraser
- Dampen a Magic Eraser and gently rub the stain.
- Wipe with a dry cloth.
Method 2: Toothpaste and baking soda
- Apply a non-gel toothpaste mixed with baking soda.
- Scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Choose a non-gel toothpaste for the best results. Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, helping lift the stain without damaging the surface.
Method 3: Vinegar and water
- Mix equal parts white vinegar and water.
- Use a sponge to blot the stain until it disappears.
White vinegar works best for breaking down ink stains. Let the mixture sit for a minute before blotting for better results. Additionally, always test a small, hidden area before applying any cleaning method to avoid potential damage to paint or wallpaper.
4. Removing permanent marker from wood
Wood surfaces require gentle care to prevent damage to the finish.
Method 1: Rubbing alcohol or acetone
- Apply rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover with a cotton ball.
- Wipe in the direction of the wood grain.
- Clean with a damp cloth.
Use caution when applying alcohol or acetone to wood, as it may strip the finish. Always test in a hidden area first, use a light touch, and avoid oversaturating the wood. If the finish dulls, restore it with a wood polish or furniture wax.
Method 2: Olive oil and baking soda
- Mix a small amount of olive oil with baking soda.
- Rub onto the stain with a soft cloth.
- Wipe clean with a damp towel.
Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain to avoid damaging the finish.
5. Removing permanent marker from skin
Method 1: Baby oil or coconut oil
- Apply a few drops of baby oil or coconut oil to the skin.
- Rub gently with a soft cloth or tissue.
- Wash with soap and water.
Method 2: Rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
- Apply a small amount to a cotton pad.
- Gently rub the marked skin.
- Wash with soap and water.
What if there’s a permanent marker stain I can’t remove?
Sometimes, no matter how much remover or elbow grease you use, permanent marker stains just won’t budge. You might try every trick—olive oil, magic erasers, baby oil—but some marks are truly permanent. In such cases, get creative. Turn ink stains into a design on the wall or use more marker to create a tie-dye effect on fabric. Thinking outside the box can turn a stain into a happy accident.
Need help budgeting for your next rental? Try our rental calculator to find the perfect fit for your budget.
Few things in life are truly permanent
You may have to repeat the steps laid out above a few times to achieve success, but with a little effort and patience, you can remove most permanent ink stains. In general, note that rubbing alcohol, paint thinner, and nail polish remover will work for many non-porous surfaces, and toothpaste will usually remove permanent marker stains from porous surfaces. For additional cleaning hacks, be sure to check out our apartment cleaning and maintenance tips.
How to remove permanent marker frequently asked questions
Q: Does vinegar remove permanent marker?
A: Yes, mix equal parts vinegar and water, then blot the stain with a sponge. Works best on walls and hard surfaces.
Q: Can sunscreen remove permanent marker from skin?
A: Yes. Many sunscreens contain oils that help break down the ink. Apply, rub gently, and wipe away.
Q: What removes permanent marker from leather?
A: Use a small amount of rubbing alcohol or a non-acetone nail polish remover, then wipe with a clean cloth.
Q: Can a permanent marker stain impact my apartment deposit?
A: Yes. If you leave permanent marker stains on walls, floors, or furniture, your landlord may deduct cleaning or repair costs from your security deposit. Always try removing stains before moving out, and check your lease for specific cleaning policies.
