There are several DIY hacks for getting rid of permanent marker scrawls on your walls, sofa, or clothing, but one cleaning expert has a very simple solution that really works
Even for those who are overzealous about cleanliness, some messes prove to be particularly tenacious – threatening the notion that your home could ever return to pristine condition.
But there’s one dreaded mess that strikes fear into the hearts of tidy enthusiasts everywhere – permanent marker. When it finds its way onto your plush sofa cushions, or – heaven forbid – your painted walls, giving up might seem like the only option, yet hope is not lost.
During a previous Wilko House of Hacks, an event celebrated among cleaning fans, domestic goddess and writer Lynsey Crombie, affectionately dubbed Lynsey Queen of Clean, fielded questions on how to keep things sparkly clean.
This included a lifesaving tip on how to erase permanent marker from your paintwork, proving the task isn’t as daunting as it may seem. Lynsey responded to a query from a lady wrestling with stubborn permanent marker lines on her shiny banister.
Always ready to lend a helping hand, Lynsey suggested: “Have you tried toothpaste on that one? Try that one, and if that doesn’t work, try nail polish remover as well. Try both of those, and if they don’t work, message me and I’ll help you.
“But remember, with the toothpaste, try and leave it overnight. So don’t just put it on and expect a miracle within ten minutes. For permanent marker, I’d leave it on as long as you can. Really rub it in as well and then have a look in the morning.”
At the same event, Lynsey went on to share some nuggets of cleaning wisdom for tackling ink blots on your coffee table made by any exuberant little Picasso at home. She advised: “I find toothpaste works really well with pens, if you scrub it in, it starts to break it down. If you get ink on clothes, hot milk is one of the old-school things that really work. Just rub it in.”
