How to dissolve a permanent marker stain on marble?
Estimated Reading Time: 2 MinutesQ. Would rubbing alcohol take permanent marker off of marble?
A. You can try using rubbing alcohol on marble to remove a permanent marker stain.
NOTE: Follow the manufacturer’s safety precautions when using chemicals.
Since it evaporates quickly, chances are it won't seep into the pores of your marble. Just don't use it in high concentrations or leave it on the surface too long. The safest way to use alcohol on marble is to dilute it. Mix about one part rubbing alcohol with one or two parts water. Apply it with a soft, clean, white cloth. Wipe the area gently, then rinse with clean water and dry completely. If the alcohol doesn't remove the permanent marker stain, there's something else you can try...
Acetone, available at home supply or paint stores, is a strong solvent that can dissolve permanent marker stains. Don't use nail polish remover, which may have other ingredients mixed in or even contain no acetone at all. Like alcohol, acetone evaporates quickly and doesn’t usually soak deeply into marble. When used sparingly and briefly, it can generally be considered safe for removing stains without discoloring the stone. However too much acetone or acetone left to dwell too long can strip sealants or protective coatings, dull the finish of your marble, or cause light discolorations, especially on dark marble. Test it in an inconspicuous area first. Apply it with a soft, clean, white cloth. Wipe the area gently, then rinse with clean water and dry completely.
NOTE: Your stain removal efforts may affect the finish of your marble. You may need to have the marble resealed afterward. We recommend hiring a professional stone restoration contractor to refinish and reseal your stone, if needed. To find a vetted PRO in your area, visit www.surfacecarepros.com and click on Find a PRO.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Fred Hueston is the Chief Technical Director at SurfaceCarePROS.com and Director at StoneForensics.com. He is also the author of Stone and Tile Restoration: The Manual, a comprehensive online manual for stone and tile restoration contractors. [Learn more about Fred.]