Dry erase boards are useful tools, but they often develop stains and “ghosting” over time, diminishing clarity. Effective cleaning and maintenance restore their appearance and utility. This guide explores various methods, from routine cleaning to addressing stubborn marks.
Standard Cleaning Techniques
For routine cleaning of dry erase marker residue and light ghosting, several methods are effective. Products specifically formulated for dry erase boards contain solvents that dissolve marker ink without damaging the surface. Apply these cleaners directly to the board or a microfiber cloth, then wipe the surface clean. This efficiently removes ink, preparing the surface for new writing.
Rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) is another effective solution for general cleaning, especially for ghosting from ink residue. A solution with 90% to 99% isopropyl alcohol is recommended for best results. Hand sanitizer, which often contains isopropyl alcohol, can also be used, though higher alcohol concentrations are necessary for cleaning efficacy.
A mild soap and water solution offers a gentle alternative. Using a microfiber cloth with warm, soapy water helps remove accumulated ink and oils. Rinse the board thoroughly with clean water afterward to prevent soap residue buildup, which can affect future erasability. Regularly clean the whiteboard eraser with mild soap and water or a soft brush to prevent it from spreading ink residue.
Removing Persistent Stains
Stronger solutions are often necessary for stubborn issues like deep ghosting or accidental permanent marker marks. The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, made of melamine foam, acts as a micro-abrasive to lift embedded stains. Use it with water and apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the board’s coating.
Non-gel toothpaste addresses persistent stains due to its mild abrasive properties. Apply a small amount of white toothpaste to the stained area with a soft cloth and rub gently in a circular motion. Wipe the board clean with a damp cloth to remove all residue. A paste made from baking soda and water offers a similar abrasive action for tougher marks.
To remove permanent marker, write over the permanent ink with a dry erase marker. Dry erase markers contain solvents that can re-liquefy the permanent ink. Applying the dry erase ink dissolves the permanent ink, allowing both to be wiped away together.
Preventing Future Stains
Preventing stains extends the lifespan and maintains the clarity of a dry erase board. Using high-quality dry erase markers is important, as their ink formulation prevents strong adhesion to the board. These markers sit on the surface, allowing for easy removal.
Establishing a regular cleaning schedule helps prevent ink buildup and ghosting. Boards used daily benefit from daily cleaning, while moderately used boards may need cleaning two to three times per week. Consistent cleaning removes microscopic ink particles that accumulate and embed into the board’s surface.
Avoid using abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach, or rough cleaning tools such as paper towels. These can scratch or degrade the board’s non-porous surface. Scratches create microscopic pores where ink can become trapped, leading to increased staining and reduced erasability. Instead, opt for soft cloths, like microfiber, which effectively capture ink residue without damaging the surface.
For older or heavily used boards, resurfacing films or conditioning products can restore the writing surface and provide an additional protective layer. These solutions involve applying a new film or conditioning agent to maintain the board’s non-stick properties, reducing future staining and ghosting.