Remove Permanent Marker from Counters and Appliances

Written by Amy Gordon (last updated July 29, 2019)

Permanent marker is a great tool for many things, from making posters to labeling supplies. The problem with permanent markers is how difficult they are to wipe off surfaces where you do not want them to be. We all know that mistakes can happen, and it is easy to get marks where you don't wan them. For instance, sometimes people will use permanent markers to write on paper and it will bleed through the paper. The result can be marks on your counter or table that are almost impossible to remove.

Even though advertised as a permanent marker, most markers are not really permanent. The ink from the markers is just very tenacious and difficult to remove. If you follow this tip, though, the permanent marker mark should become a thing of the past. You still may have to scrub a little bit, but it will become much easier than it has ever been before.

All you need to do is apply a little rubbing alcohol to the mark with a paper towel. If you choose, you can use a cloth instead of a paper towel, but the problem with this is that the permanent marker will then stain the cloth. Just rub the paper towel covered with rubbing alcohol over the stained area. The alcohol should dissolve the permanent marker ink. If that is not enough, soak an area of the paper towel with the rubbing alcohol and lay it on the affected area. Let it set for a few minutes while it dissolves the mark on the area.

This tip works great on countertops, but it is not limited to just that. Try it on any place that you want to remove permanent marker. Use it on that appliance you want to donate to the local thrift store or sell at a garage sale that still has your name written on it. Or use it on a backpack that your child has written all over. You will be amazed how much less permanent the "permanent" markers will become in your mind.

Author Bio

Amy Gordon

Amy Gordon loves keeping things simple, natural, and safe so she can spend more time having fun. Every day she learns new things about making life at home easier and she loves to share it with you! ...

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