If you’ve ever accidentally marked up your plastic table, you would want to know how to remove Sharpie from plastic.
Fortunately, there are several methods you can try to effectively remove Sharpie from plastic without damaging the surface.
One popular method is to use rubbing alcohol.
Simply apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball and gently rub the Sharpie mark until it disappears.
Be sure to use a clean cloth to wipe the area afterward.
Another method is to use a dry-erase marker to write over the Sharpie mark, then wipe it away with a clean cloth.
This works because the solvents in the dry-erase marker dissolve the Sharpie ink.
It’s important to note that not all plastic surfaces are created equal, and some methods may work better than others depending on the type of plastic.
For example, rubbing alcohol may work well on hard plastics like acrylic, but could damage softer plastics like PVC.
Be sure to test any method on a small, inconspicuous area before attempting to remove the Sharpie mark.
How To Remove Sharpie From Plastic
If you’ve accidentally marked your plastic surface with a Sharpie, don’t worry.
There are a few ways to remove it without damaging the plastic.
Here are two methods you can try using household items or specialty products.
Using Household Items
Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a common household item that can help remove Sharpie marks from plastic.
Simply soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain.

The alcohol will break down the marks and return them to their liquid state.
When this happens, you can use a cloth to wipe the marker away.
Repeat these steps until the stain is gone.
Finally, wash the plastic with soapy water and dry it with a cloth.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is another household item that can help remove Sharpie marks from plastic.
Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste.
Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, use a cloth to rub the stain away.
Repeat these steps until the stain is gone.
Finally, wash the plastic with soapy water and dry it with a cloth.
Using Specialty Products
Goo Gone
Goo Gone is a specialty product that can help remove Sharpie marks from plastic.
Spray some Goo Gone over the Sharpie stain and let it sit for about five minutes.
Then, wipe the stain away with a cloth.
Repeat these steps until the stain is gone.
Finally, wash the plastic with soapy water and dry it with a cloth.
Acetone
Acetone is another specialty product that can help remove Sharpie marks from plastic.
Apply a small amount of acetone to a cloth and gently rub the stain.
Repeat these steps until the stain is gone.
Finally, wash the plastic with soapy water and dry it with a cloth.
Remember to always test any product on a small, inconspicuous area of the plastic before applying it to the entire surface.
This will help ensure that the product doesn’t damage or discolor the plastic.
Additional Tips
When removing Sharpie from plastic, there are a few additional tips you should keep in mind to ensure the best results.
Here are some tips to follow:

- Test the method you choose on a small, inconspicuous area of the plastic first to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
- Use gentle motions when scrubbing to avoid scratching the plastic surface.
- If you’re using a chemical-based method, make sure you’re working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling any fumes.
- If you’re using a solvent, make sure to wear gloves to protect your skin.
- If you’re having trouble removing the Sharpie, try repeating the process a few times or using a different method.
- If you’re still having trouble, consider consulting a professional cleaner or repair person for assistance.
By following these additional tips, you can ensure that you remove Sharpie from plastic safely and effectively.
What to Avoid
When it comes to removing Sharpie from plastic, there are a few things to avoid to prevent further damage to the surface.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Do not use abrasive materials such as steel wool or scouring pads. These can scratch the plastic and make it look dull or damaged.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia. These can discolor or even melt the plastic.
- Do not use heat to remove the Sharpie. This can cause the plastic to warp or melt.
- Be careful not to rub too hard, as this can also scratch the plastic.
By avoiding these things, you can safely remove Sharpie from plastic without causing any further damage.
Key Takeaways
Removing Sharpie stains from plastic can be a frustrating task, but it’s not impossible.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when trying to remove Sharpie stains from plastic:
- Use rubbing alcohol or baking soda and water paste to remove Sharpie from a plastic container.
- Dip a cotton pad or microfiber towel in rubbing alcohol, then gently rub the stain until it lifts off of the plastic.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals like nail polish remover, acetone, or hairspray, which can damage the plastic.
- Repeat the cleaning process until the Sharpie stain is completely removed.
- Once the stain is gone, wash the plastic with soapy water and dry it with a cloth.
By following these tips, you can successfully remove Sharpie stains from plastic without causing any damage.
Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t give up until the stain is completely gone.