It's easy to remove permanent marker ink from plastic surfaces, but you also have to be careful. Some of the more effective cleaning products, such as acetone, can actually damage plastic surfaces, especially if the product is left on for too long. This article will show you several ways to get rid of permanent marker stains or ink from plastic surfaces. However, keep in mind that sometimes existing stains are too strong and impossible to remove completely.
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Method 1 of 5: Removing Stains Using a Non-Permanent Marker
Step 1. Find a non-permanent marker
You can use any color marker, although dark colors are recommended. This method works effectively, especially on whiteboards, and is safe for use on smooth plastic surfaces. However, this method does not work very effectively on textured plastic surfaces. Therefore, for a textured surface, try using Removing_Stains_Using_Alcohol_sub alcohol or a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste.
Step 2. Overwrite the existing permanent marker stain or writing with a non-permanent marker
Non-permanent markers contain solvents that can dissolve permanent marker ink.
Step 3. Rub the plastic surface with a soft cloth
After being overwritten by non-permanent marker ink, permanent marker stains can be easily wiped off and removed using a cloth.
Step 4. Use a glass cleaning product if the non-permanent marker can't remove the permanent marker
If for some reason the non-permanent marker ink dries and can't remove the permanent marker, try spraying a glass cleaner on the wood surface. After that, wipe the surface with a paper towel.
Method 2 of 5: Removing Stains Using Magic Eraser
Step 1. Purchase a “magic” sponge product like the Magic Eraser
Products like this can be found in most supermarkets, in the cleaning supplies section. This sponge is shaped like a brick and is white in color. Make sure you buy a product that doesn't have any additives, such as bleach.
Step 2. Cut the sponge into small pieces
This is done to make it easier to work with because even a small sponge can be used to clean large areas.
Step 3. Dip the sponge in the water
If the stain is quite strong or stubborn, try dipping a sponge in rubbing alcohol.
Step 4. Rub the stuck stain using the sponge in a circular motion until the stain is removed
However, don't press the sponge too hard on the surface. You may have to scrub it for five to ten minutes to see the results.
Method 3 of 5: Removing Stains Using Alcohol
Step 1. Prepare alcohol (which is usually used to clean wounds), hand sanitizer, or acetone
These three products can dissolve the chemicals contained in permanent marker ink so that the ink is easily dissolved (and removed). Each product has its own advantages and disadvantages. As an example:
- Alcohol is the safest product to use. However, alcohol may not be as effective and you'll need to use it several times before the stain can lift. The higher the percentage of alcohol used, the more effective the cleaning will be. Therefore, try to use alcohol with a concentration of 90% (or higher).
- Products such as hand sanitizer gels work well to clean dented plastic surfaces because they stick well to surfaces and don't drip or spill easily. Its effectiveness in removing stains is roughly the same as that of alcohol.
- Acetone is the strongest product and most effective in removing stains. However, this product can lift paint and melt certain surfaces, so its use is not recommended for painted or smoother plastic surfaces. If you want to use it, try testing the product on a less obvious surface. Dip a cotton swab in the acetone and press the cotton against the plastic surface for a few seconds before wiping it off. If the plastic looks damaged or the paint on the surface looks faded, do not use acetone to clean the surface. It is better and safer to use alcohol or hand sanitizer only.
Step 2. Soak a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol to remove any dents or minor stains
If you use a hand sanitizer, put a small amount of the product on the stain and smooth it out with your fingers to cover all the stains with the product.
Step 3. Rub the stain with a cotton swab until it's clean
This method can be followed for cleaning dented plastic surfaces, including keyboards and cell phones. If the stain persists, soak a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and press the cotton against the stain for a few minutes before scrubbing it off. However, don't use this method with acetone, as acetone can melt the plastic if left on for too long.
Step 4. For a flat surface and a fairly large stain, pour some alcohol over the stain
Smooth with your fingers until all the stains are covered with alcohol.
Step 5. Rub the stain with a paper towel until it's clean
For stubborn stains, let the alcohol sit for a few minutes. Again, do not leave the acetone on the plastic surface for longer than a few seconds to prevent damage to the surface.
Step 6. Continue to rub the surface using a cotton swab that has been dipped in alcohol until the stain is completely gone
Usually, the stain can be lifted and gone on the first cleaning. However, there may still be some stain left behind. Keep in mind that the longer the stain or permanent marker ink stays on the plastic surface, the harder it will be to remove the stain or ink. Sometimes, the ink or smudges on the plastic surface have stuck to it and seep too deep. If this is the case, you may still be able to see the "trace" of the stain.
Method 4 of 5: Removing Stains Using Baking Soda and Toothpaste
Step 1. Gather the necessary materials
You need baking soda and toothpaste in a 1:1 ratio. The amount of material needed will depend on the size of the stain attached to the plastic surface. Make sure you use a white (or pale green) toothpaste and not a gel toothpaste, as white toothpaste is more abrasive than gel toothpaste (and therefore more effective). Since this method uses abrasive materials, it is not recommended that you clean painted plastic surfaces using this method, as adhering paint may peel off. It's a good idea to do a test first by applying the mixture on an inconspicuous part.
- For very small stains, all you need is a small amount of toothpaste (about the size of a green pea) and a little baking soda. For larger stains, use baking soda and toothpaste, one tablespoon each.
- You'll also need a container to mix the ingredients in, such as a small bowl, small plate, or cup.
Step 2. Mix the baking soda and toothpaste until it becomes a thick paste
Pour the baking soda and toothpaste into a container. Make sure you use the same amount of both, then mix them together using a fork or spoon. You can also use toothpicks or ice cream sticks.
Step 3. Apply the paste on the stain
Don't apply the paste too thinly, and don't apply the paste too thickly either. If the stain is still showing through the paste layer, try applying more paste to the stain.
Step 4. Scrub the stain for one minute
If the plastic surface has a texture, use a toothbrush to scrub the stain. The bristles on a toothbrush can clean small parts that a rag cannot reach. If the surface is flat and very smooth, you can rub the stain with a towel or fingers. Don't rub it too hard so you don't scratch the plastic surface.
Step 5. Rinse the surface thoroughly
A mixture of baking soda and toothpaste will usually remove almost any stain. However, you can do further cleaning using Remove_Stains_Using_Alcohol_sub alcohol to remove any remaining stains.
Method 5 of 5: Removing Stains Using Other Products
Step 1. Try using tea tree oil
The oil will dissolve the permanent marker, making it easier to remove. In addition, the aroma is also more must than alcohol or acetone. Wet a cotton swab with tea tree oil and rub the cotton on the stain until the stain disappears. For small areas, you can use earplugs. When finished, wipe the area clean using a paper towel.
If there is any residual oil stuck to it, moisten a cotton swab with rubbing alcohol and wipe off any excess oil
Step 2. Remove the stain using a pencil eraser
Make sure you use a good quality eraser. This method is most effective for removing light stains on smooth surfaces. You just need to rub the eraser on the stain until the stain is gone.
Step 3. Try using sunscreen
Sunscreen contains oils that can dissolve the chemicals in permanent marker stains. However, keep in mind that the oil content in sunscreen can also leave stains on certain surfaces so it's a good idea to test it first on parts or areas that are not clearly visible.
Step 4. Try using baking soda and vinegar
Sprinkle baking soda over the stained surface, then spray vinegar over it. Let the mixture foam for a few minutes, then wipe it off with a towel.
Step 5. Try using hydrogen peroxide
Make sure you use hydrogen peroxide packaged in a dark bottle from the first aid kit section of the drugstore. Wet a cotton swab with hydrogen peroxide and rub it over the stain. For larger stains, pour the product over the stain and blot with a paper towel.
Step 6. Try spraying hair spray
The chemicals in hairspray can dissolve the stain, making it easier to remove. Spray the stained surface and wipe clean with a paper towel. However, keep in mind that the chemicals in some products can damage certain types of plastic. Therefore, try to test on areas or parts that are not clearly visible before cleaning.
Step 7. Use oil-based household cleaning products with care
Products like Goo-Gone or Mr. Muscle can remove sticky stains and residue, including permanent marker stains. However, the chemicals contained in the product can damage certain surfaces, especially glossy surfaces. Therefore, make sure you read the instructions for using the product and test the product first on parts or areas that are not clearly visible. After cleaning, there may be residual oil adhering to the surface. You only need to wipe it using a cotton swab that has been moistened with alcohol.
