Who hasn’t scribbled on a wall with a Sharpie at some point? It’s a common problem, especially in homes with children. Sharpie markers are notorious for their permanence, but there are a few effective ways to remove them from walls without damaging the paint. In this article, we will cover the best methods for removing Sharpie from walls, providing step-by-step instructions for each method and discussing the pros and cons of each approach.
The first method we will discuss is using rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is a powerful solvent that can dissolve Sharpie ink. To use this method, simply apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or cloth and rub it over the Sharpie mark. Be sure to test the rubbing alcohol in an inconspicuous area first to make sure it does not damage the paint. If the rubbing alcohol does not remove the Sharpie mark, you can try using a stronger solvent, such as acetone or nail polish remover. However, be sure to test these solvents in an inconspicuous area first, as they can damage the paint if they are not used correctly.
Another method for removing Sharpie from walls is using toothpaste. Toothpaste is a mild abrasive that can help to remove the Sharpie ink from the wall. To use this method, simply apply a small amount of toothpaste to the Sharpie mark and rub it in with a damp cloth. Be sure to rinse the area with water after you have removed the Sharpie mark. If the toothpaste does not remove the Sharpie mark, you can try using a stronger abrasive, such as baking soda or Comet cleanser. However, be sure to test these abrasives in an inconspicuous area first, as they can damage the paint if they are not used correctly.
Using Alcohol or Nail Polish Remover
Isopropyl alcohol or acetone-based nail polish remover are two of the most effective ways to remove Sharpie from walls without damaging the paint. Note that acetone can damage some types of paint, so it’s best to test it in an inconspicuous area first.
To use alcohol or nail polish remover to remove Sharpie from walls:
- Dampen a cotton ball or soft cloth with alcohol or nail polish remover.
- Gently rub the cotton ball or cloth over the Sharpie mark, starting from the outside and working your way in. Do not scrub too hard, as this could damage the paint.
- If the Sharpie mark is old or stubborn, you may need to let the alcohol or nail polish remover sit on the mark for a few minutes before wiping it away.
- Once the Sharpie mark has been removed, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residual alcohol or nail polish remover.
- If necessary, repeat steps 1-4 until the Sharpie mark is completely removed.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective at removing Sharpie marks | Can damage some types of paint |
| Easy to apply | May require multiple applications to remove old or stubborn marks |
| Relatively inexpensive | Can leave behind a strong odor |
How To Get Sharpie Off Walls
If you’ve got kids, then you’ve probably got Sharpie on your walls. Sharpie is a permanent marker, so it can be tough to remove. But don’t despair! There are several ways to get Sharpie off walls without damaging the paint.
The most important thing is to act quickly. The longer the Sharpie stays on the wall, the harder it will be to remove.