If someone has used a permanent marker on your whiteboard, it may take several tries before you can remove the ink. Fortunately, it should be sufficient to use products that you can easily find at home or in stores.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Part 1: Remove the Ink from a Permanent Marker
Step 1. Review the writing with a dry-erase marker
Take a black marker or the darkest color you have and go over the writing completely. This marker contains solvents that may dissolve the stain. Wait a few seconds and then erase using some paper towels or a whiteboard eraser.
- If the whiteboard or eraser is not clean (apart from the permanent ink), this method may leave smudges, which you can remove by following one of the steps below.
- You can repeat this procedure several times until the ink is completely gone. However, if you don't notice any difference after two attempts, try one of the steps below.
Step 2. Try isopropyl alcohol
Most inks contain alcohol-based solutions. Fill a spray bottle with 70% isopropyl alcohol or 100% ethyl alcohol, or soak a rag in the alcohol. Place the chalkboard in a well-ventilated room and spray the alcohol on the stain. Then dry the slate with a clean non-abrasive cloth, rubbing in a circular motion. Rinse the slate with some damp kitchen paper and then dry with a cloth or other kitchen paper.
- Warning: pure alcohol is flammable. Keep it away from heat sources.
- Many household products contain alcohol and can be used in place of isopropyl alcohol. Try a hand sanitizer, aftershave, or perfume. Avoid products that contain pigmentation or are sticky.
Step 3. If the stain resists, use acetone
If none of the above methods work, try acetone. It is a chemical that produces flammable vapors, so always work in a well-ventilated room. Put some acetone on the stain using a cloth, scrub and then rinse with a little water. If the chalkboard has an enamel finish or if it has a wooden frame, it may be damaged, but this is one of the most effective ways to remove stains.
- If you accidentally get some acetone in your eyes, immediately rinse with warm water and continue for 15 minutes. Keep your eyes open and don't stop to remove your contact lenses.
- If acetone gets on your skin, rinse it off within 5 minutes, although it shouldn't cause more damage than skin irritation.
Step 4. Purchase a dedicated whiteboard cleaning product
Many of these products are little more than isopropyl alcohol, but much more expensive. If, after trying all of the above methods, your whiteboard is still not clean, purchase a professional whiteboard cleaning product.
Step 5. Don't trust other solutions
Some say they have had success with abrasive products such as baking soda, toothpaste, or more harsh chemicals. Even if they can get rid of the stain, it will damage the surface of the board. Many ammonia-based products may be suitable for daily use, but are not recommended for heavy use.
Soap and water or white vinegar can remove lighter stains, but will hardly affect more resistant ones
Method 2 of 2: Part 2: Keep your Whiteboard Clean
Step 1. Let the dry erase marker dry for a few seconds before erasing
A normal marker should be left to dry for a few seconds, preferably 8-10. If the ink is still not dry, when you erase it it will leave a smudge on the surface of the whiteboard. Kind of like it's a ghost sign.
Markers with less strong odors are the ones that drool more easily and may require more frequent cleaning
Step 2. Erase the whiteboard every time you use it
If you use the chalkboard every day, always erase it at the end of the day so the ink doesn't settle. If you have to leave something for several days, cross it out and rewrite it elsewhere on the board.
Step 3. Wash it regularly
It is a good idea to clean the slate completely 2-3 times a week or whenever you notice any smudges. Just use a cloth or sponge slightly moistened with soap and water. After soaping the slate, rinse with a damp cloth and then dry. Alternatively, you can use a glass cleaning product, or a special product for cleaning whiteboards, and then dry with kitchen paper or a dry cloth.
Step 4. Clean the erasers once a month
If ink from the markers gets on the erasers, they will be less effective at cleaning. Felt erasers are the strongest, and can be easily cleaned by scratching the surface with a knife. Other types of erasers use layers of moistened fabric that can be torn off when dirty. Microfiber cloths can also be used, which are hand and machine washable.
