Remove crayon with baking soda and marker with rubbing alcohol

Treat crayon and permanent marker as two separate problems. Baking soda or non-gel white toothpaste gently abrades crayon wax off painted walls, while rubbing alcohol dissolves the dye-based ink in permanent markers.

Steps

Crayon:

1. Dip a damp cloth into baking soda to form a light paste.
2. Rub the crayon mark gently in a circular motion until it lifts.
3. Alternatively, apply a small amount of non-gel white toothpaste and rub gently.
4. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Permanent Marker:

1. Apply rubbing alcohol or alcohol-based hand sanitizer to a cotton ball.
2. Dab and rub the marker stain gently. Replace the cotton ball as it picks up ink.
3. For stubborn marks, a Magic Eraser (melamine foam) can help, but test first as it may affect paint sheen.
4. Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Tips

• Always test any method on an inconspicuous area first to check for paint damage
• Baking soda is less abrasive than melamine foam and safer for semi-gloss or satin finishes
• Work in small sections and wipe residue promptly to avoid streaking