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How to Remove Sharpie Marker from the Walls

In 1964, the Sanford Corporation created the first pen-style permanent marker. Sharpie-trademarked products are made of polymer dyes diluted in propyl alcohol such as isopropanol, according to the Material Safety Data Sheet. When used improperly, Sharpie markers can leave marks on walls and be a little tricky for traditional cleaners to remove. But there are some non-traditional devices that can be used to remove Sharpie marks from your walls without harming the surface.

Things You'll Need

  • Sponge
  • Nail polish remover without acetone
  • Pine-Sol
  • Damp washcloth
  • Soapy water and paper towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the surface with plain soap and water. Thoroughly cleaning the surface will remove any dirt and grime from the surface.

    • 2

      Pour a small amount of Pine-Sol on a damp washcloth. Scrub the Sharpie mark for about one minute. You may need to add more Pine-Sol and scrub a little longer if there is a large amount of marker on the wall.

    • 3

      Take a sponge and apply a small amount of nail polish remover without acetone. Rub the nail polish remover over the marker area until it’s removed. If the Pine-Sol did not effectively remove the marker, try the nail polish remover without acetone. The nail polish remover will not damage the paint.

    • 4

      Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste on the Sharpie mark and scrub with a clean cloth if other methods prove unsuccessful. Wipe the area clean with a damp clean cloth.

    • 5

      Clean the surface again with plain soap and water to remove any chemicals. Let the area dry. For safety purposes, it’s ideal to remove any chemicals left on the wall.

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