Don't throw away the old whiteboard. This article describes how to restore a whiteboard that is hard to remove and/or requires constant cleaning. Although it is very difficult to restore to its perfect condition, whiteboards can still be written on and erased easily in no time.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Restoring Whiteboard
Step 1. Clean the eraser of any remaining markers by brushing, pounding, and vacuuming
Most cleaning problems actually stem from dirty erasers. Be sure to beat and vacuum the eraser to remove any dust. With this step, the eraser will be much more effective.
Step 2. Scrub the whiteboard with an eraser
Scrub off as much dirt as you can with this method, but don't push yourself to remove hard-to-clean dirt. All you need to do is clean the dirt that can be removed.
Step 3. Clean the whiteboard with a special whiteboard cleaner and tissue
If whiteboard cleaner is not available, use a damp cloth. Do not use other cleaners, as they may peel off the whiteboard coating. This layer makes the markers easy to remove.
- Keep scrubbing the whiteboard with a clean towel until you can no longer remove any dust and dirt.
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Always use a soft and soft towel or tissue. Never use abrasive pads or scourers!
Step 4. Spray WD-40 on the entire surface of the whiteboard with a thin layer
WD-40 is a kind of light oil that keeps whiteboards slippery. This product allows the marker ink to dry without soaking into the board so the stain doesn't stick permanently. Even if the whiteboard is a bit slippery, you can still use it.
Step 5. Rub the WD-40 with a fresh cloth to spread it all over the board
When you're done, dry the whiteboard with a tissue. The boards will feel a little slippery from the oil, but they won't be visible and won't collect in one place. Rub in circular motions to cover the entire board.
Step 6. Test it by scribbling a marker on the corner of the whiteboard
Make a few scribbles with a non-permanent marker and wait about 10-15 minutes before you erase them. If you manage to do this, and the whiteboard doesn't need repair, the marker ink should be easy to remove even when it's dry.
Method 2 of 2: Keeping the Whiteboard Clean
Step 1. Avoid using abrasive strokes when cleaning the whiteboard
The non-porous surface of the board allows for easy removal of marker ink, and a protective coating similar to Teflon prevents ink from soaking into the board. However, scratches or nicks on this coating can allow the ink to seep into the board and permanently damage it. Always use a clean, soft cloth or towel.
Certain types of adhesives such as glue and tape can also peel off the backing of the board when removed
Step 2. Use a whiteboard cleaner and dry towel every weekend to keep the whiteboard clean
Regular cleaning is very important so you don't have to do any restoration. Applying a light coat of cleanser and rubbing a towel will remove the stain before it sinks in, which will keep the whiteboard beautiful for years to come.
- Marker ink that is left on for more than 24 hours is at risk of causing "ghost" stains.
- Stubborn stains can be removed with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol. Rub and dry the alcohol after applying (don't let it dry on the board.
Step 3. Remove "ghost stains" or permanent markers by covering the whiteboard with a black non-permanent marker
After that, immediately remove the layer of marker that is still wet. Marker ink that is still wet actually contains chemicals that hold the ink fluid, which can loosen "ghost" or permanent marker stains. Do this quickly, then immediately scrub with a clean, dry eraser to remove the stain.
- Remember, if you don't act quickly, the black marker can dry on the board, and you won't reach your goal!
- You can also use this method to remove certain stains. Make sure the stain is completely covered with black ink before you remove it.
Step 4. Avoid using degreasers, soaps, or cleaners that are not specifically designed for whiteboards
Most soaps will break down water-insoluble oil and shine, which can remove stubborn stains and chemicals. However, this gloss serves a specific purpose when placed on a whiteboard, which is to prevent the marker from fully drying. Never use a cleaner that is not specifically designed for whiteboards.
In a pinch, denatured alcohol can act as a stronger cleaner than water. It also doesn't damage the original polish on the whiteboard
Step 5. Always dry the whiteboard after you wipe it with a damp cloth
Do not let the whiteboard dry out. If you wipe the whiteboard at the end of the day, dry the board with a clean tissue and rag. This is useful for extending the life of the whiteboard.
Step 6. Clean the dry eraser regularly to prevent the build-up of dust and marker residue
You can rub the eraser on a kitchen towel. If you want to wash it, rub the eraser with a soft, damp cloth to remove any ink marks, but don't wet the eraser. The eraser must be free of dust and dirt to keep the whiteboard clean and smooth.
Step 7. Understand that this recovery attempt can only be done a few times so you will have to buy a new whiteboard at some point in the future
If the coating on your whiteboard is damaged from exposure to strong cleaners, or you need WD-40 more frequently, the whiteboard is nearly out of service. While you can resurface the surface, it's best to buy a new whiteboard with a new polish.
The WD-40 makes the whiteboard reusable, but the writing on the board will be a little streaky. Whiteboards can still be used, but this must be considered
Tips
- WD-40 will fill the dry pores on the whiteboard which will hold the ink and make it easier to remove.
- Commercial cleaners/recoveries made by whiteboard manufacturers are similar to car wax.
- If there is an old stain on the whiteboard, rub some new ink over the stain, then buff it off with a dry eraser. This can remove old stains.
- If you have a new whiteboard, it's a good idea to apply baby wipes that contain lanolin (a wax-like substance). This can keep the condition maintained.
