Will acetone remove dry erase marker?

Answered by Robert Dupre

Acetone can effectively remove dry erase marker from a whiteboard. Acetone, which is commonly found in nail polish remover, has strong solvent properties that can break down and dissolve the pigments in the marker ink.

To remove dry erase marker using acetone, you will need a few supplies: acetone (nail polish remover), a cotton ball or soft cloth, and some water. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Start by pouring a small amount of acetone onto a cotton ball or soft cloth. Make sure the cloth is damp but not dripping with acetone.

2. Gently rub the damp cotton ball or cloth over the dry erase marker stain on the whiteboard. Apply light pressure and use circular motions to work the acetone into the ink.

3. Continue rubbing the stain until you start to see the marker ink lifting off the surface of the whiteboard. You may need to apply more acetone or use a fresh cotton ball/cloth if the stain is stubborn.

4. Once the marker ink has been loosened, take a clean cloth or paper towel and dampen it with water. Use this damp cloth to wipe away any remaining acetone residue and marker ink from the whiteboard.

5. Repeat the process if necessary, especially for darker or more stubborn stains. It may take a few attempts to completely remove all traces of the dry erase marker.

It’s important to note that acetone can be quite strong and may have a strong odor. Make sure to use it in a well-ventilated area and avoid prolonged exposure to the skin. If you have sensitive skin or are concerned about the strong smell, you can also try using rubbing alcohol instead of acetone.

In addition to acetone, rubbing alcohol is also effective in removing dry erase marker stains from whiteboards. Just follow a similar process, substituting the acetone with rubbing alcohol. The alcohol will break down the marker ink and make it easier to wipe away.

Another handy trick to remove dry erase marker stains is to trace over the stain with an actual dry erase marker and then erase both marks together. The solvent in the dry erase marker can help dissolve the original ink, making it easier to clean off the whiteboard.

Both acetone and rubbing alcohol can be used to remove dry erase marker stains from whiteboards. Whether you choose to use acetone, rubbing alcohol, or the dry erase marker trick, it’s important to test a small, inconspicuous area of the whiteboard first to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.