If you have ever dropped a permanent marker on your lap or accidentally dragged it across a desk instead of the paper, you know the feeling of dread that comes before you check to see how bad it is. You hope it didn’t leave a mark, but it always does. Permanent markers are supposed to be permanent, and that means nothing can remove those unwanted stains. Don’t worry, there are ways you can correct those permanent marker accidents.
The removal method depends on the type of material or object that has been marked. A recent post on Facebook displayed a list of types of permanent marker stains, and how they can be removed. Of course, the Internet is going crazy over it. Things that people once thought were ruined due to permanent marker stains can now be saved. Here are a few of the tips.
Clothing
It’s not uncommon to drop a marker on your lap or accidentally press it against your shirt. When you do, the marker can leave behind a big stain. Don’t throw away your favorite outfit. Instead, reach for the hand sanitizer. Just apply the sanitizer to the marker stain and allow it to soak into the stain. Use a clean towel to blot out the stain. Your clothing will look as good as new.
Walls
If you accidentally wrote on the wall or you are the parent of a naughty toddler who found your secret stash of stationary, you can remove the stain instead of painting over it. Apply some toothpaste to stain and then wipe it with a white cloth or a paper towel. You may need to apply the toothpaste and wipe it more than once, but it will eventually remove the stain from the wall.
Skin
If you have an aspiring tattoo artist or you just had to write the grocery list on your hand because you were out of paper, you may be wondering how you are going to get permanent marker off the skin. Sure, you could scrub it off, but that may be painful and you might lose a few layers of skin. Instead, apply some sunscreen to the marked area and then use a cloth to rub it off gently. Apply more sunscreen as needed until the marks are completely gone.
Carpet
Nothing will make your heart beat faster than the site of a permanent marker stain on your carpet. You can’t exactly pull up carpeting to clean it and replacing it is expensive. Don’t worry; white vinegar can bring it right out. Apply some white vinegar to the stain and allow it to soak into the carpet for a few minutes. Use an absorbent cloth to blot of the stain gently. The entire mark should disappear.
Wood
Sometimes you accidentally go off the paper and mark on things. If the marker is on wood, it can seem difficult to remove. Don’t buy expensive products or go through the hassle of sanding and staining. Just apply some rubbing alcohol to a rag and use it to wipe the area clean. The alcohol will loosen up the stain and remove it from the wood.
Whiteboard
You may know better than to use a permanent marker on a whiteboard, but sometimes it just happens. You grab the wrong marker, and before you know it, you have ruined your whiteboard. Not so fast. Don’t freak out just yet. Instead, grab a pencil with a good eraser and go to town on that mark. The eraser should come right off. No need to even alert the janitor.
You may not be able to prevent permanent marker stains, but when you know how to remove them, they don’t seem so scary. Every material or fabric is different so be careful when using certain products. Keep the lids on your markers and keep this handy Facebook post saved on your computer in case you need it.
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