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How to clean a whiteboard so its white again

Transform your whiteboard with a tube of humble toothpaste and get rid of permanent marker stains with these whiteboard cleaning hacks.

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a girl cleaning a whiteboard

Having a whiteboard in the home can be a fun and handy way for kids to play or adults to manage the home schedule. But, within a few uses, stains can appear making it look messy. No matter – discover the best way to clean a whiteboard including how to clean a whiteboard with toothpaste.

Everyday products are perfect for cleaning your whiteboard. Try rubbing the surface with hairspray or toothpaste and rinse with a clean, damp cloth.

How to get permanent marker off whiteboards: A simple step-by-step guide

Used the wrong pen? Don’t fret – put the white back in whiteboard with these steps that show the best way to get permanent marker off whiteboard.

What you need:

  • Dry erase marker

  • Whiteboard eraser

How to get permanent marker off whiteboards – what to do:

  • Draw over the permanent marks with a dry erase marker.

  • Leave to dry.

  • Remove the dry erase marks with a whiteboard eraser.

  • As you clean the marks away, it should also remove the permanent marks.

  • If you notice any left-over marks, repeat the process.

How to clean whiteboards: Your regular cleaning routine

Used the right pen but still got unattractive smudges on your whiteboard? Try these whiteboard cleaning hacks to keep on top of it.

What you need:

  • Whiteboard eraser

  • Two soft, clean cloths

  • Your normal toothpaste

  • Clean water

  • Dry towel

How to clean a whiteboard with toothpaste – what to do:

  1. The best way to clean a whiteboard is little and often. Wipe the surface with a whiteboard eraser every other day.

  2. For a deeper clean that targets old stains, apply a little toothpaste with a soft cloth.

  3. Work a small amount of the toothpaste across the surface in a circular motion.

  4. Use a damp cloth to wipe the surface clean of any leftover residue after cleaning.

  5. Repeat as necessary to remove all stains.

  6. Use a clean towel to dry the surface. You can also air dry but this may leave streaks.

While this method focuses on how to clean a whiteboard with toothpaste, you can replace the ingredient with other household staples, such as:

  • Rubbing alcohol

  • Nail polish remover

  • Glass cleaner

  • Hand sanitiser

  • Hairspray

Clean your whiteboard regularly and enjoy a crisp surface to write on when managing your home.

Originally published