How to Get a Dry Erase Marker Off a Painted Wall

The oil base in dry erase markers helps the ink adhere to dry erase boards while still being easy to remove. When applied to unintended surfaces, the marker ink isn't as easy to remove. Porous surfaces, such as a painted wall, require special care to remove the ink stain. You can get a dry erase marker stain off a painted wall but you must use cleaning supplies and stain removal techniques that will remove the ink while leaving the paint intact.

Dry erase markers leave their mark on painted walls.

Step 1

Spray the dry erase marker stain on your painted wall with furniture polish. Blot the wall with a dry cloth to remove the stain. Repeat this step to remove as much of the dry erase marker stain.

Step 2

Dampen a clean cloth with rubbing alcohol. Dab at the remaining dry erase marker stain on the wall to remove as much as you can. Move the cloth to a clean portion as the ink is lifted.

Step 3

White toothpaste is effective for marker and ink stains.

Apply a pea-sized amount of white toothpaste to an old toothbrush. Carefully brush the toothpaste onto the painted wall to tackle any remaining dry erase marker ink stain. As the ink is loosened, blot it with a dry cloth to remove it.

Step 4

Wipe the toothpaste off the painted wall with a damp cloth.

Step 5

Spray the wall with all-purpose cleaner. Wipe the surface to clean your wall and remove toothpaste residue.