How to Remove Permanent Marker From Vinyl

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Using a Sharpie marker can be great for art projects and taking notes, however, they can also be the absolute worst if you get permanent marker ink on vinyl floors.

If you’ve been having a tough time getting rid of permanent marker stains from vinyl, this is the post for you. Below, you’ll find a guide on the best methods for removing permanent marker stains from vinyl materials!

Rubbing Alcohol

The isopropyl alcohol content in rubbing alcohol makes it an effective solution for removing permanent markers. Make sure to take the proper precautions when using the alcohol step by wearing gloves. This is especially the case if you have sensitive skin. 

• Apply the rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and use a gentle circular motion on the dry-erase marker ink.
• Once the Sharpie marks come out, use a wet cloth to wipe the surface clean. 

Nail Polish Remover

• Pour the nail polish remover onto a clean cloth and use it to blot the ink stain. 
• Let the solution soak into the vinyl floor for a few minutes.
• Grab a damp cloth and wipe the marker stain away.
• You can then dry the black permanent marker stain area with a clean paper towel 

Lemon Juice and Toothpaste

The acidic lemon combined with the toothpaste makes this mixture powerful for removing ink stains from your vinyl item.

• Add warm water to a small bowl with the juice of one lemon and a small quantity of toothpaste. 
• Gently coax the stained area with the mixture and use a paper towel or toothbrush to get rid of the ink. Be sure to rub gently until the marker ink has disappeared.
• If it doesn’t work the first time, repeat the steps and continue rubbing the vinyl floor until the ink is no longer visible.
• You can then clean the surface to remove any cloudy residue with a soft cloth.

Mineral Spirits

Mineral spirits are used to remove permanent markers from porous and non-porous surfaces such as stainless steel appliances and vehicles.

• Apply the mineral spirits to a clean white towel and rub the stained area in circular motions. 
• Once the Sharpie stain is gone, use a damp cloth to clean the area. 

Hair Spray

• For this hairspray step, be sure to use non-oily hairspray. 
• Spray the ink stains generously and use a paper towel to start rubbing the area with a circular motion. 
• Once the marker stains are gone, use cold water to clean the area. 

Conclusion

After reading through our post on removing permanent marker stains from vinyl materials, we hope that you’re feeling more assured about how to tackle the issue going forward. 

If you’ve accidentally applied permanent marker ink to vinyl, or other areas such as painted walls or plastic containers, be sure to try these cleaning methods. 

Also read: How to Get Marker Out of Carpet

FAQs

Can you use vinegar to remove permanent marker stains from vinyl?

Yes, distilled white vinegar combined with baking soda can be great for removing marker stains from vinyl flooring. Mix a small quantity of baking soda and vinegar in a bowl and rub the mixture into the stain. Let the baking soda and vinegar sit for a few minutes before you wipe the area clean with a cloth. 

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