Permanent Markers

How do you get magic marker off of wood sided paneling?

My son took a magic marker and wrote all over our wood paneling that we have in our basement. I need to clean it off from there and I need to know what is the best product to use and not damage the wood

Public Comments

1. I had the same problem. Used a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Try it on a small spot first, I have light paneling and it didn't damage it, but if you have dark paneling it might change the color. But it took some rubbing, but the magic marker came right off.
2. i have used methylated spirit to get it off a coffee table of ours and it worked. i think what probably is the most risk to damage timber is it to become saturated and begin to swell. so a white spirit that has a fast evaporation rate, but also not leave any residue as to remain a flamable risk. so someone else that knows there chemicals may have better advice than mine.
3. You would be so surprised to find out how much stuff that simple hand sanitzer removes. Good luck.
4. I would try that Mr. Clean white sponge. My grandaughter has done things similar and that always gets it off.
5. I would suggest going to a large building supply store like "The Home Depot" and asking there. Then go to a small local hardware store like "ACE". Compare their answers. Here are some ideas I got from the websites noted below, just remember to ALWAYS test a small area!!! "Wd-40 can do some amazing things; try a little on a paper towel with some light rubbing, then clean residue with a spray polish". "Try fingernail remover without acetone in it, I have used it several times on stained wood and it removes permanent black marker that has been there for a long time withouth stripping the varnish". "believe it or not.....Hair Spray works great!" "I am amazed! The Off Bug spray took it right "OFF!" I sprayed it and let it soak for a few seconds before simply wiping it off with the magic eraser. [But] I wouldn't leave it on too long - looked like it was going to eat the finish". "Mr. Clean magic easer" Well, I hope this helps. Good Luck!!!
6. Mineral spirits. It won't harm the finish on the paneling. Acetone will dull it, lacquer thinner will remove the finish.