More and more people choose window markers to write congratulatory messages and greetings on their car windows. Also known as window chalk markers or windshield markers, working with this art media spurs fun and creativity.
This allows you to express and parade your feelings and celebrate with your loved ones artistically. Of course, you have to take them off eventually. The good news is that you can wipe them clean effortlessly.
But take note, these markers are meant for windows.
So, what if you have accidentally written over car paint? Will it stain? Can you clean window markers easily? The next step is to think of the best ways how to get window marker off car paint without damaging it. I will show you how in this detailed guide.
Table of Contents
5 Methods to Get Window Markers Off Car Paint
1st Method: With Water and Dish Soap
Does window marker stain car paint? This is probably your main concern when window markers get on your car paint. Fortunately, trying to remove window paint from car paint will not be a tough thing to do. Sometimes, water and dish soap will do.
Things You Will Need
- Mild dish soap or detergent
- Clean water
- An empty container or bucket
- A microfiber cloth
Instructions
- Step 1: Fill the container or bucket with clean water.
- Step 2: Mix the mild dish soap or detergent into the water.
- Step 3: Wet the microfiber cloth with soapy water.
- Step 4: Use the wet microfiber cloth to eliminate the window marker on the car paint gently. Wipe it in a circular motion to remove it thoroughly.
- Step 5: When you are done, wipe it clean with a dry microfiber cloth.
2nd Method: Use an Automotive Glass Cleaner
Glass cleaner is also a good window marker removal. However, make sure to use a glass cleaner for automotive surfaces to prevent any damage to your car paint. Household glass cleaners are not advisable since some of them usually contain ammonia that can damage car paint.
Things You Will Need
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- A glass cleaner for automotive surfaces
- A dry microfiber cloth
Instructions
- Step 1: Because automotive glass cleaners contain chemicals, it is best to wear protective gloves to keep the chemicals off your hands. You may also consider wearing eye protection such as safety goggles.
- Step 2: Automotive glass cleaners usually come in spray bottles. Thus, simply spray it over the marker writings on the car paint.
- Step 3: Use a dry microfiber cloth or soft cloth to wipe them off.
- Step 4: Repeat the process until you take all of the marker writings away completely.
3rd Method: With an All-purpose Cleaner
Using an all-purpose cleaner is one of the quick and easy solutions to remove car window marker writings on your car’s body paint. Take note that we are talking about all-purpose cleaners for automotive here and not the household kind.
Since all-purpose cleaners are carefully formulated for all types of surfaces, they provide effective cleaning properties that can also work on car surfaces. No wonder they have been a staple addition to many car owners’ cleaning kits.
Things You Will Need
- Protective gloves
- An all-purpose cleaner
- A dry microfiber cloth
Instructions
- Step 1: Just like glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners also contain chemicals. Wear protective gloves before spraying. You may also wear safety glasses for added protection.
- Step 2: Make sure to read the product’s instructions for the proper application. Some all-purpose cleaners require dilution.
- Step 3: If the cleaner does not require dilution, simply spray the all-purpose cleaner all over the marker writings.
- Step 4: Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently wipe them clean. Do this in a circular motion to remove the markings completely.
4th Method: Use Wd-40
WD-40 is among the popular cleaning products that can effectively eradicate different kinds of stains and dirt and keep surfaces spotless. Luckily, it contains ingredients that are completely safe to use on car paint.
Therefore, when you need to get window paint off car body surfaces, this product can do a thorough cleaning job. This product also works great on oil-based window markers or chalk markers.
Things You Will Need
- WD-40
- A microfiber cloth
- Soapy water
Instructions
- Step 1: Apply a thin layer of WD-40 to the microfiber cloth.
- Step 2: Wipe the window marker off the car paint.
- Step 3: Leave it for 10 to 20 minutes. Allow the product to completely remove the marker writings.
- Step 4: Wash and clean the surface with soapy water.
- Step 5: Use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the surface.
5th Method: Try a Small Amount of Toothpaste
When you do not have any of the cleaning products mentioned, you probably need something you can easily find in your home. That’s right. You can use toothpaste for this procedure. The best part? You can also use this hack for permanent marker stains.
Things You Will Need
- Toothpaste
- Microfiber cloth
- Soapy water
Instructions
- Step 1: Use your finger and get a small amount of toothpaste.
- Step 2: Gently lather it on the surface where the markings are. Move your fingers in a circular motion. At this point, you will see the marker stains disappearing.
- Step 3: Use a microfiber cloth and soapy water to clean the surface and dissolve any residues.
- Step 4: Repeat the process until you get rid of the markings completely.
Additional Tips
When you remove window marker from car paint, it is important to remember the following pointers. In this way, you can ensure the pristine appearance of your car paint and prevent any further damage.
- Some users recommend acetone to get rid of window markers. Although this product has been commonly used to eradicate stubborn stains, it is not advisable for car paint. Excessive use of acetone and leaving it for long periods on the car’s surface may damage car paint.
- If you are going to use soapy water, do not use abrasive detergent cleaners.
- Do not use rough brushes or cleaning clothes. Always use microfiber cloths for cleaning the car’s surface.
- Do not use sharp objects to remove tough stains or writings on your car’s body paint.
- When trying out new products or cleaning methods, it is best to try them first on an inconspicuous part of the car’s surface. This lets you determine whether it can be effective or harsh on your vehicle’s exterior.
- If you want to use a marker to decorate or write on your vehicle, make sure it is washable or removable. There are a lot of chalk markers or window markers that are suitable and completely safe to use on car windows.
Also, check this video to find out instructions of getting window marker off car paint and salvage yard parts:
Conclusion
When you realize you have been writing on car paint, you need to think of a quick and easy fix. Though window markers or chalk markers are usually removable and washable, they may still leave residues when used on car paint.
Luckily, there are ways you can try to keep your car paint squeaky clean and free from window marker writings. Hopefully, the methods on how to get window marker off car paint will help you complete this cleaning task.
Art has always been a part of my life; it influences my upbringing and later my career choice. For me, it is always a part of my parenting technique. So for whichever purpose that you come to art, you can start here with us.