How to Remove Permanent Marker from Every Surface – Including Sharpie, Artline & Staedtler

Whether it’s a Sharpie, Artline 70, Artline 90, or Staedtler Lumocolor, removing permanent marker doesn't have to be a nightmare. Here’s a complete stain-removal cheat sheet to help you clean up without damage—perfect for home, office, or school!

Permanent Marker Removal Methods by Surface

Surface	Stain Removal Method	Tips
Wood (sealed)	Rubbing alcohol or non-acetone nail polish remover on a cotton ball	Rub gently with the grain to avoid damage
Wood (unfinished)	Baking soda + water paste, gently scrub with a soft brush	Avoid liquid cleaners that may soak in
Plastic	Isopropyl alcohol, hand sanitiser, or WD-40	Let it sit for 30 seconds before wiping
Metal	Industrial cleaner like WD-40 or acetone	Use microfiber cloth to avoid scratching
Glass	Dry-erase marker over stain, then wipe with paper towel	Works great on windows and mirrors
Whiteboard	Use whiteboard cleaner or redraw over it with a dry-erase marker, then wipe	Acts like a solvent for permanent ink
Countertops (laminate)	Magic eraser, alcohol, or toothpaste & baking soda	Avoid bleach—may discolour surface
Walls (painted)	Toothpaste (non-gel) or baking soda paste	Dab—don’t scrub. Test in a small area first
Fabric (clothing)	Rubbing alcohol under the stain (inside out), blot with cloth	Rinse immediately and wash with stain remover
Skin	Hand sanitiser or makeup remover	Gentle circular motions
Ceramic (tiles/mugs)	Acetone or rubbing alcohol	Avoid scraping—can scratch glossy surfaces
Carpet	Vinegar and baking soda, then blot with clean water	Avoid oversaturating—lift, don’t rub
Paper	Unfortunately, permanent ink cannot be removed from paper without damage	Best to reprint or cover with a label or white-out

?️ Do Different Marker Brands Require Different Cleaners?

While Sharpie is the most common culprit, stains from Staedtler Lumocolor, Artline 70, or Artline 90 markers may vary slightly in intensity or resistance depending on ink type (oil-based vs alcohol-based). However, the removal methods above will work across most permanent markers.

✅ Pro tip: Always do a spot test first, especially on delicate surfaces.

? Shop the Essentials

At Mega Office Supplies, we stock:

Need to know if it’s in stock? Hit up our LiveChat or Click & Collect from HQ. We deliver Australia-wide, and direct ship from suppliers in each state when your order hits $99+—speeding up delivery times.

4th Apr 2025 Mega Office Supplies

Newest Guide & Blog Updates