How to Get Marker Off of Flat Paint

You can remove marker stains from flat paint, but it will require caution.

If the wall with the marker stain is painted with flat paint, also known as matte paint, the process to clean the marker stain will require a meticulous approach to avoid leaving cleaning marks after removing the marker stain. Several solvents will remove marker, but to remove marker from flat paint you will need to use something that is not too potent so you don’t end up ruining the paint’s finish.

1. Attend to the marker stain as soon as you see it. You have a better chance of getting the marker stain off flat paint if you clean it before it dries and settles.

2. Mix baking soda and white toothpaste in a bowl. Mix enough to cover the marker stain.

3. Use paper towels to apply the baking soda and white toothpaste mixture on the marker stain. You must be meticulous and only apply this mixture to the area that has the marker stain. Leave the mixture on the marker stain for 10 minutes so that ink from the marker loosens.

4. Apply water to a clean white cloth and squeeze the excess liquid from it. Gently remove the mixture you applied on the marker stain by scrubbing it off. Switch to a clean part of the cloth when the part you are using to scrub becomes dirty. Make sure to only scrub the affected area. Repeat as necessary.

5. Clean the marker stain area with another damp cloth to clean any residue. Dry the area by blotting with a towel. Be advised that depending on the quality of your flat paint, you may see paint discoloration or dullness in the affected area. This will be better than a marker stain, however.