How to Get Pen Off Walls Using Household Staples You Already Own

Pen stains on walls can be a common and frustrating problem, especially in homes with kids or during creative projects. Fortunately, you don’t need to buy expensive cleaners or call in professionals to tackle these stains. With some common household items, you can effectively remove pen marks and restore your walls to their original state. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore four effective methods for getting pen off walls using household staples you probably already own.

Method 1: Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a powerful tool for removing ink stains due to its solvent properties. It can dissolve both oil-based and water-based ink, making it a versatile choice for cleaning pen marks.

Steps:

Prepare the Alcohol:

• Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into a bowl.

Apply to Stain:

• Dip a clean cloth into the rubbing alcohol. Wring out any excess to avoid drips.

• Gently blot the stained area with the cloth, allowing the alcohol to absorb the ink.

Refresh Cloths:

• As the cloth picks up the ink, switch to a new alcohol-soaked cloth to continue blotting until the stain is gone.

Rinse and Dry:

• Once the stain is removed, rinse the area with a cloth dipped in warm water and mild dish soap.

• Dry with a clean towel.

Why It Works: Rubbing alcohol acts as a solvent that breaks down the ink’s oils and pigments, making it easier to lift off the wall. However, it's crucial to rinse the area afterward to prevent any residual alcohol from causing damage or discoloration.

Method 2: Hairspray

Hairspray can be an effective alternative to rubbing alcohol if you have it on hand. Look for hairspray that lists alcohol as a key ingredient.

Steps:

Spray the Stain:

• Generously spray the hairspray directly onto the ink stain.

Let It Sit:

• Allow the hairspray to sit for about five minutes. This gives the alcohol time to break down the ink.

Wipe Clean:

• Using a cloth dipped in warm, soapy water, wipe away the hairspray residue and the ink stain.

Repeat if Necessary:

• If the stain persists, repeat the spraying and wiping process until the mark is fully removed.

Why It Works: Hairspray contains alcohol and other solvents that can dissolve ink stains. The alcohol helps break down the ink, making it easier to wipe away.

Method 3: Melamine Sponge

Melamine sponges, commonly known as Magic Erasers, are an excellent option for tackling pen marks. These sponges work on the principle of fine abrasives that remove stains without the need for chemicals.

Steps:

Dampen the Sponge:

• Moisten the melamine sponge with water. This activates its cleaning properties.

Gently Rub:

• Gently rub the sponge over the pen mark using small circular motions. Avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent damage to the paint.

Wipe the Area:

• After the stain is removed, wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

Why It Works: Melamine sponges act like ultra-fine sandpaper, physically lifting stains from the surface. They’re effective for removing surface-level stains without the need for chemical cleaners.

Method 4: Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste can also be used to remove pen marks. Its mild abrasives and cleaning agents make it a gentle yet effective solution.

Steps:

Apply Toothpaste:

• Rub a small amount of whitening, non-gel toothpaste onto the pen mark. For larger or older stains, use an old toothbrush to scrub the toothpaste into the mark.

Let It Sit:

• Allow the toothpaste to sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the cleaning agents work on the ink.

Wipe Clean:

• Wipe away the toothpaste with a damp cloth. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.

Why It Works: Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives and cleaning agents that help lift ink stains from the wall. The gentle abrasives help scrub away the stain without damaging the paint.

Conclusion

Removing pen stains from walls doesn’t have to be a challenging task. With these household staples—rubbing alcohol, hairspray, melamine sponges, and whitening toothpaste you can tackle ink marks efficiently and effectively. Each method leverages common items you likely already have at home, making it easy to address these stains without additional expense.

For best results, always test the cleaning method on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the wall’s paint or finish. By following these steps, you can keep your walls looking clean and fresh, and handle any unexpected ink mishaps with ease.

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