If you accidentally use a permanent marker while working on a whiteboard, don't worry! There are several quick ways you can erase permanent ink without damaging the board itself.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Erasing a permanent marker with a dry erase marker
Step 1. Take a dry erase marker and completely paint over the marks of the permanent marker with it
You need to take a fresh dry erase marker, which has enough ink, and paint over the permanent marker with it as well as possible.
The color of the dry erase marker is irrelevant
Step 2. Wipe the lettering off the whiteboard with a clean whiteboard sponge or soft cloth
Traces of both markers should be erased without much difficulty. This is because a non-polar solvent is used for both permanent markers and dry erase markers. The solvent from the dry erase marker will loosen the adhesion of the permanent marker to the board.
Step 3. If the first time you were unable to erase all traces of the permanent marker, repeat the procedure
You may need to repeat the painting and erasing process several times to completely clean the whiteboard. You can also try a household cleaner for surface wiping, but these usually contain lower concentrations of solvents, so using a dry erase marker will work better.
Method 2 of 2: Erasing permanent marker marks with household tools
Step 1. To remove the permanent marker, dampen a clean, soft cloth or paper towel with hand sanitizer, rubbing alcohol, or acetone-free nail polish remover
Do not use abrasive cleaners as they will damage the surface of your board, leaving permanent marks on it.
- Wipe off the marks of the permanent marker with a damp cloth.
- Then wipe off any residue of your used product, otherwise it may interfere with your writing with a dry erase marker when you try to use the board again.
- Let the board dry completely before writing anything on it.
Step 2. Take a washing eraser and try to erase the marks of the permanent marker with it
Use this method only if other methods have proved powerless, since the washing eraser can potentially damage the surface of the board.
Advice
- If you immediately start erasing a permanent marker, letting it sit on the board for no more than 30 seconds, and not 5-10 minutes, then it will be much easier for you to cope with the task.
- You can also use eau de toilette to erase the permanent marker if you have it handy.