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How to Remove Permanent Marker From Stone: 7 Methods

Written by Robert S. Brown / Fact checked by Helen B. Harris

how to remove permanent marker from stone

You probably have different types of stones somewhere in your home. Perhaps, you have walls, floors, or fireplaces made out of beautiful stones. Everything is all good until you notice what seems to be a permanent marker stain on one of these stone surfaces. This is inevitable, especially if you have kids around.

Now here’s your dilemma: you need to find an effective and easy way to eliminate permanent markers from your stones. Luckily, it is not as difficult as you think it is! As you read on, you will find the best ways on how to remove permanent marker from stone and keep it spotless and stunning as ever!

7 Methods to Remove Permanent Marker From Stone

1st Method: Nail Polish Remover or Acetone

remove-sharpie-from-stone

Nail polish remover or acetone is among the common items for stain removal, including permanent ink stains on various surfaces. This product contains a liquid solvent that can remove Sharpie from stone surfaces without damaging them.

An acetone-based nail polish remover typically emits a strong odor that can cause headaches or nose irritations. If you can take the stone outdoors, it is much better to do so for ventilation. Otherwise, you can consider wearing a mask or opening the windows when using it.

Things You Will Need:

  • A clean and dry cloth or pad
  • A cotton pad or ball
  • Nail polish remover or acetone

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Pour a small amount of acetone on a cotton ball or pad.
  • Step 2: Rub it against the stain until it comes off.
  • Step 3: Repeat the process if the permanent ink stains remain.
  • Step 4: As soon as the stain disappears, wipe it clean with a dry cloth.

2nd Method: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

As the name suggests, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser works like a treat on all sorts of stains, including stubborn ink stains.

It does the trick, especially if you want to know how to get marker off stone fireplace surfaces and other stones that require quick yet thorough cleaning. This product looks like a sponge but it can remove stains like magic!

Things You Will Need:

  • Clean Magic Eraser

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Simply wet the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser under running water.
  • Step 2: Squeeze it until the excess water comes out.
  • Step 3: Rub the permanent ink stain with it until the stain disappears.

3rd Method: Use WD-40

how-to-get-marker-off-stone-fireplace

Permanent ink stains can be mild or a whole lot of mess! If you are dealing with the latter, you will need a heavy-duty stain removal product. That being said, WD-40 is a multipurpose product that can get rid of tough permanent ink stains, leaving stone surfaces spotlessly clean.

Things You Will Need:

  • WD-40
  • A clean cloth

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Apply WD-40 all over the permanent ink stain.
  • Note: If you are using a WD-40 without the spray nozzle, simply pour a small amount on a clean and dry cloth. If the stains are severe, you can apply more on a clean cloth.
  • Step 2: Use a clean cloth to wipe the surface in circular motions until the ink stain disappears.
  • Step 3: If the ink stain is still visible, repeat the process.

4th Method: Apply Hydrogen Peroxide

permanent-marker-come-off-stone

Hydrogen peroxide is a non-chlorine and oxygen-based bleach, making it a safer and better option than chlorine bleach. It works like a charm on permanent ink stains and does not damage the stone surface or leave white stains. It disinfects the surface too!

Things You Will Need:

  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • A cotton ball or cotton pad
  • A clean cloth

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide on a cotton ball or pad.
  • Step 2: Rub the cotton ball or pad against the stain. Let the hydrogen peroxide sit for a few minutes.
  • Step 3: Wipe it clean using a clean and dry cloth.
  • Step 4: If the stain is still visible, repeat the process.

5th Method: Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

get-Sharpie-out-of-stone

Baking soda is another popular, all-around household item you can use to remove permanent ink stains. Mix it with hydrogen peroxide and you will have a strong solution that eliminates tough permanent ink stains on stone surfaces.

Things You Will Need:

  • 2 tablespoons of baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide
  • A mixing bowl or cup
  • A cotton ball
  • A plastic wrap

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide in a bowl or cup to form a paste.
  • Step 2: Apply the solution all over the stain. Make sure that all the stained areas are completely covered.
  • Step 3: Use a plastic wrap to cover the surface and hold the solution inside. You can tape the sides to keep the wrap in place.
  • Step 4: Allow it to dry overnight or for 24 hours.
  • Step 5: Peel the plastic wrap off. As you do, you will notice that the ink is pulled out of the stone along with it!

6th Method: with Toothpaste

get-permanent-marker-off-Masonry

A quick trip to your bathroom can take you to another stain removal product: toothpaste! A small amount of this can work on fresh permanent ink stains on rocks or stone surfaces.

Things You Will Need:

  • Toothpaste
  • A clean cloth or towel

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Take an amount of toothpaste that is enough to cover the permanent ink stain. Rub it in the stain gently and wait until the stain disappears.
  • Step 2: Do not wipe it off just yet. Allow the toothpaste to sit for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Step 3: Use a clean cloth or towel to wipe the surface clean.
  • Step 4: Rinse it with water to remove any residues.
  • Step 5: Repeat the process if the stains are still visible.

7th Method: Use Rubbing Alcohol

remove-permanent-marker

Alcohol is probably one of the first products you would use to get rid of permanent ink stains. That is no surprise since this product is a type of solvent that can remove permanent Sharpie markers from stone and other types of surfaces.

Things You Will Need:

  • Alcohol
  • A clean cloth or towel

Instructions:

  • Step 1: Pour enough alcohol all over the stain.
  • Step 2: Use a clean cloth or towel to wipe the stain away. Do this until the stain disappears.
  • Step 3: Repeat the process for stubborn permanent ink stains.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, you can try different methods as you look for how to remove permanent marker from stone surfaces or decorative stone pieces. The good news is that the procedures mentioned in this in-depth guide are not difficult to follow. Apart from that, the products you can use are highly accessible and commonly available at home. If you have ever tried any of these, share your experience with us!

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