Removing permanent marker stains from plastic objects and surfaces is easy, but care must be taken. Some of the most effective cleaning products, such as acetone, can also damage the material - even more so if left in it too long. This article provides several treatment options. Still, remember that some cases are too serious and impossible to resolve completely.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Removing Stains with a Dry Erase Pen
Step 1. Buy a dry erase pen
Color is not that important, but it might be better to use a darker pen. This method is even more ideal for paintings and chalkboards, as well as serving on smooth plastic surfaces. It just doesn't fit in textured places; in that case, use isopropyl alcohol or a mixture of baking soda and toothpaste.
Step 2. Pass the pen over the stain
The dry erase pen contains solvents that help to break up ink particles.
Step 3. Wipe the area with a soft cloth
Use the accessory with the dry erase pen to remove the stain from the permanent pen.
Step 4. Use a glass cleaner if you cannot get the dry erase pen out
If even the dry pen is dry on the plastic surface (next to the permanent pen), spray the spot with a glass cleaner and then wipe with a paper towel.
Method 2 of 5: Removing Stains with a Magic Sponge
Step 1. Buy a magic sponge
It is white and rectangular and is often found in the cleaning section of supermarkets. Also check that the accessory does not contain any additives such as bleach.
Step 2. Cut the sponge into smaller pieces
It will be easier to clean if it is cut into small pieces.
Step 3. Dip the sponge into the water
If the pen stain is too sticky, use isopropyl alcohol.
Step 4. Rub the sponge on the stain in a circular motion until it comes out
Don't put too much force in your hand. Also, you may have to scrub for five to ten minutes to see results.
Method 3 of 5: Removing Alcohol Stains
Step 1. Buy isopropyl alcohol, disinfectant gel or acetone
The three options are capable of dissolving the chemical products in the permanent pen, which facilitates the process. See the benefits of each:
- Isopropyl alcohol is the safest, but it is not as effective and may have to be applied several times. The higher the percentage of alcohol, the more potent the product. Buy something that has 90% or more of the ingredient.
- The disinfectant gel is great for curved surfaces as it is thicker and doesn't drip as much. Plus, it's just as effective as isopropyl alcohol.
- Acetone is the strongest and most effective option. In addition to removing stains, it can melt on certain surfaces - and therefore is not recommended for painted or softer spots. Test it in a small area: moisten a cotton swab and rub it against the spot for a few seconds; then take it off. If the plastic becomes distorted or discolored, use another alternative (isopropyl alcohol or disinfectant gel).
Step 2. Dip a cotton swab in the alcohol if the surface is curved and the stain is small
If you use the disinfectant gel, squirt a few drops into the stain and spread it with your finger to cover the entire spot.
Step 3. Remove the stain with the cotton swab
This method is ideal for curved surfaces, keyboards and cell phones. If the stain persists, soak another cotton swab in the alcohol and place it on top of the spot for a few minutes; then take it off. Do not do this if you use acetone - as the material can melt the plastic if left in contact with it for too long.
Step 4. Wet the stain with alcohol if it is large and the surface is flat
Spread the product with your finger until it covers the entire stain.
Step 5. Wipe the stain with a paper towel
If it's too tight, wait a few minutes. Remember not to do this if you use acetone, or the surface may melt or discolor.
Step 6. Continue passing the cotton swab over the stain until it disappears
The most tense part of the stain will disappear after the first treatment, but there may still be something left. The longer the pen stain lasts, the more difficult it will be to remove it; in some cases it may be too close together. If that happens, there will still be an almost transparent layer of products left.
Method 4 of 5: Removing stains with baking soda and toothpaste
Step 1. Purchase or collect materials
You will need baking soda and a white toothpaste in the same proportions. Quantities depend on the size of the stain. Toothpaste has to be white (or at least clear) and not gel - as this product is more abrasive and effective. As the method involves stronger materials, it is not recommended for painted surfaces as it can damage the paint. Test it out in an inconspicuous area before starting.
- If the stain is too small, you will need a drop of both ingredients. If it's big, use a teaspoon or soup of each.
- You will also need a container to make the mixture, such as a pot or cup.
Step 2. Mix baking soda and toothpaste into a thick paste
Measure out the amount of both and use a spoon or fork to make the mixture. If you don't have any of these, use a toothpick or Popsicle.
Step 3. Spread the paste over the stain
The layer cannot be too thin or too thick. Spend more of the paste if you can see the stain through it.
Step 4. Rub the stain for one minute
If the surface is textured, use a toothbrush; the bristles will help spread the paste over the less accessible spots. If it's smooth, use a towel or even a finger - and don't push it too hard, or you could scratch the spot.
Step 5. Rinse the area
Mixing the baking soda and the cream will remove most of the stain, but you can also apply some isopropyl alcohol to the spot to remove the last residue.
Method 5 of 5: Removing stains with other products
Step 1. Use some tea tree oil
The oil helps dissolve the ink stain and makes cleaning easier; in addition, it smells much nicer than isopropyl alcohol or acetone. Just apply a little to a cotton swab and rub into the affected area. If it's small, use a cotton swab. Finally, when you're done, wipe the area with a paper towel to clean it up.
If any oil residue remains, wipe a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol on the spot
Step 2. Run a quality pencil eraser over the stain
This method is most effective on small spots and smooth surfaces. Just rub the rubber in the ink until it's gone.
Step 3. Use some sunscreen
The protector contains oils that help dissolve the chemicals present in the pen ink. Keep in mind that these oils can also stain certain surfaces; therefore, test at a more discreet point before starting.
Step 4. Use some baking soda and vinegar
Sprinkle a little baking soda on the stain; then add the vinegar. Let the products act for a few minutes and then remove everything with a towel.
Step 5. Use hydrogen peroxide
Buy a small bottle of hydrogen peroxide at a drugstore and apply it to a cotton swab. Pass the cotton on the stain and then remove it with a paper towel.
Step 6. Apply some hairspray
The chemicals found in hairspray help dissolve the stain and make cleaning easier. Spray the area and then wipe with a paper towel. Also remember that certain ingredients can damage plastic. Test at a more discreet point to avoid accidents.
Step 7. Use oil-based cleaners sparingly
Certain options are ideal for removing ink smudges. Still, they can contain ingredients that spoil the material, especially if it's shiny. Read the label carefully and test before starting. Finally, there may also be an oil residue. If this happens, clean with a cotton swab and isopropyl alcohol.
Tips
- Depending on the size and time of the stain, you may have to repeat the treatment several times.
- Try using the pencil eraser to remove permanent marker ink from cellophane sheets. Really works!