How to Get Crayon Off The Wall: 12 Easy Ways

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Children are indeed a gift, and there are moments when their innocence shines through. They are curious little beings with a knack for being oh-so-messy. Their curiosity can lead to spills, breakages, and the dreaded (and ultra-annoying) crayon scribbles on the wall.

However, removing crayon marks on the wall can be a cleaning nightmare for most parents. Crayon marks are stubborn and difficult to remove, causing a lot of frustration.

The good news is there are several ways that you can get rid of those crayon marks. Follow along as we share twelve easy ways to get crayons off the wall with these tried and true methods.

1. Dawn Dish Soap

Dish soap is an effective and gentle cleaning agent that can help remove crayon marks from walls. To use dishwashing liquid for this purpose, mix a small amount of dish soap with water to create a solution. Apply the dish soap solution to the crayon marks on the wall and gently rub the area with a sponge or cloth. 

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is one of the most versatile household products commonly used for baking, but it can also be used as a natural cleaning agent. It’s an effective and safe alternative to harsh chemicals and fantastic at removing crayons from walls.

To use baking soda, make a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Mix the ingredients in a small cup or bowl and apply them to the impacted area. 

Use a damp cloth to wipe away the paste and the crayon marks. 

3. Iron and an Article of Clothing

This method can be a bit tricky, but it’s remarkably effective. Here’s what you’ll need to do: take a piece of clothing with cotton fabric that you don’t intend to use again. Place it over the crayon marks on the wall and then follow up with a hot iron, ironing over the clothing item. This should effectively melt the crayon, transferring it from the wall onto the cloth.

4. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Mr. Clean magic erasers can remove crayon marks from the wall. The Magic Eraser is gentle on most surfaces, including the walls. It is excellent at wiping walls.

To use a magic eraser to remove crayon marks from a wall:

1. Start by wetting the eraser with water.
2. Rub the magic eraser directly onto the impacted area.
3. Rub until the crayon marks are no longer visible.
4. Be careful not to scrub too hard, or you could damage or remove the paint.

Once done, your walls will look just like new and ready for the next wave of inspiration. Whether it’s crayon marks or permanent marker stains, a magic eraser will transform your child’s work of art.

5. Hair Dryer Trick

Much like using an iron, utilizing a hair dryer to remove crayon marks involves a simple process of melting the crayon, making it easier to wipe away the residue. Grab a hair dryer, heat the affected area, and then blot it away with a paper towel. This should get the job done. 

6. Toothpaste

Toothpaste, typically associated with oral care, can also serve as a handy cleaning agent to eliminate crayon marks from walls. Its slightly abrasive texture and mild chemicals effectively tackle stubborn stains on surfaces.

Here’s how to use toothpaste to remove crayon marks from walls:

1. Apply a small amount of toothpaste directly onto the crayon marks and smear it on.
2. Use a soft cloth or toothbrush to rub the toothpaste into the stain in a gentle, circular motion.
3. Once the toothpaste has been thoroughly worked into the stain, rinse the area with water and dry it with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat this process a few times to erase the crayon marks completely.

7. WD-40

WD-40, a well-known multipurpose lubricant primarily used to fix squeaky doors, can surprisingly double as an effective crayon mark remover for walls.

To put WD-40 to work in removing crayon marks from a wall, spray a small amount of the lubricant directly onto the marked area. Then, take a clean cloth and gently work the WD-40 into the crayon marks using circular motions. The WD-40’s ingredients will assist in breaking down the crayon residue and lifting it away from the surface.

8. White Vinegar

Vinegar is one the most multipurpose cleaning solutions available, often available right in your cabinet. It is highly effective at removing crayon marks from walls. The acetic acid in vinegar helps break down stains and dirt on surfaces. To use vinegar, place vinegar in a spray bottle, shake it well, and then spray it directly onto the crayon marks.

Allow the solution to sit and soak for a few minutes before gently wiping away the marks with a clean cloth or sponge. If the crayon marks are stubborn, repeat the process until they are completely gone. Remember to rinse the area with clean water and dry it with a clean towel after cleaning. 

9. Pencil Eraser

An eraser is a simple and readily available tool that can be used to remove crayon marks from walls. It’s as simple as rubbing the eraser against the crayon marks on the wall, much like you would on paper. The eraser will effectively lift the crayon from the wall’s surface.

However, it’s worth noting that this method may only work effectively on lighter crayon marks. For stubborn instances, consider one of the alternative options.

10. Rubbing Alcohol 

Rubbing alcohol is a common household item with several practical uses, including removing crayon marks from walls. It’s a quick and effective solution; all you need is a cotton ball or cloth.

Rubbing alcohol makes it easy to get rid of stubborn crayon marks. However, be cautious because it might not work well with certain wall paint types and could cause damage or discoloration.

Overall, rubbing alcohol is a budget-friendly way to clean crayon marks from the wall and bring your walls back to their original look.

11. Mayonnaise

This one might come as a surprise since it’s not a typical cleaning product, but it’s surprisingly effective for crayon removal on walls. The fatty oils in mayonnaise can effectively break down crayon wax.

To use this method, spread a layer of mayonnaise over the crayon stain and let it sit for approximately five minutes. Afterward, gently wipe off the mayo with a towel, and the crayon color should disappear.

However, exercise caution when using this method, as the mayonnaise oil can stain flat paint finishes. It’s best suited for walls with a semi-gloss or satin paint finish.

12. The Pink Stuff

If you haven’t come across this solution before, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Pink Stuff has the power to resolve all your crayon-related issues effortlessly. Its waxy texture makes it a gentle yet effective abrasive cleaner. Simply apply The Pink Stuff using a microfiber cloth, and you’ll witness it easily lifting away the crayon marks.

Things to Consider Before Using These Methods

While most of these techniques can effectively eliminate crayon stains and marks from your walls, there’s a risk of inadvertently stripping off the existing paint or causing damage to your wallpaper or wood slat walls, especially if your walls have a matte or flat finish. Crayon marks are a bit easier to handle for walls with a semi-gloss or satin sheen.

You must test the method or product of choice on an inconspicuous area to ensure the wall can handle the depth of the product. Many of these products contain potent chemicals and ingredients that may react unfavorably with the wall’s paint, so exercising caution on painted surfaces is vital. Overly aggressive application or prolonged exposure can lead to unwanted outcomes.

Conclusion

Removing crayon marks from walls can be challenging, but it’s doable with the right tools and techniques. From household items like vinegar and baking soda, these products can help you remove those stubborn crayon marks. Be sure to test any method on a small area first, be patient, and be persistent in your efforts.

This article originally appeared on Hello Sensible.