Tips for Removing Marker Stains from Wallcoverings

Moms are always proud of their children's artwork – until their little one uses the new wallpaper for a canvas and the artwork is drawn with a permanent marker. What can you tell your panicked client when she calls for advice on how to remove permanent marker from the beautiful wallcovering that you installed for her?

Here are a few options to consider:

• First, carefully wipe the wall with a rag and soapy water. If the marker is fresh, this may work to remove Junior’s latest abstract drawing.
• Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Spread the paste on the permanent marker stain and rub gently to remove the stain. Rinse the wallpaper with a clean rag and plain water to remove the baking soda residue.
• Try a Magic Eraser for removing the marker stain. Dampen the Magic Eraser with water and ring it out. Rub gently on the stain until it is gone.
• Apply a thin coating of toothpaste to the wall stain and rub gently with your finger. Once the stain is removed, wipe down the wallpaper with a clean, damp rag.
• One last option is to try using rubbing alcohol to remove marker stains from wallcoverings. This should only be used as a last resort since it may fade or discolor the wallcovering. Dampen a clean rag with a moderate amount of rubbing alcohol. Wipe down the stain until it is removed. Then wipe down the wall with a clean rag and water.

No matter which option you recommend to your client, be sure to tell her to test a small, inconspicuous area of the wallpaper first before applying it to a more noticeable area.