Dissolve permanent marker with alcohol-based hairspray

Spray alcohol-based aerosol hairspray onto permanent marker stains and blot immediately. The ethanol and isopropanol in older-formula aerosol hairsprays act as solvents that break down the dye in permanent marker ink.

Steps

1. Test in a hidden spot first -- this method carries a higher risk of dulling paint sheen.
2. Spray a small burst of aerosol hairspray directly onto the marker stain.
3. Blot immediately with a clean cloth. Do not rub hard, as this can spread the ink or damage the paint.
4. Repeat if ink transfers to the cloth and the mark is fading.
5. Wipe the area with a clean damp cloth right away to remove sticky hairspray residue.

Tips

• Cheap, unscented aerosol hairsprays tend to have higher alcohol content and work better
• Many modern hairsprays have reduced alcohol formulas and will not work -- check the label for ethanol or isopropanol
• Rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton ball is a more reliable alternative if hairspray does not work