Our reader’s corner section features questions from our readers and provides insights on all topics related to home design, homekeeping and interiors.
This edition’s question:
“My kids don’t usually draw on walls, but every now and then, I’ll find a scribble or two. Please give me a few tips on how to get rid of crayon drawings from walls?”
-Tanvi Shreshta, Mumbai
The first thing you have to do is avoid fretting over it since this is going to persist as growing children need a canvas to scribble on and walls are the ultimate temptation. Crayons are made of wax and are less messy than paint or markers. Apart from being non-toxic, they can be dealt with quite easily. Clean crayon marks off your walls with these simple cleaning tips and you will have clean shiny walls in no time.
Soap Water
Detergent can be diluted with some water. Use a cloth or a steel wool and dip in the soap water and rub the stains off. For best results, be patient and gentle while scrubbing.
Blow-dryer
Hot air helps in melting the wax in crayons, hence the blow-dryer. Use a clean cloth and dip it in soap water. Hold the dryer against the marks and gently wash the marks off.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste abrasives help in removing crayon marks. Apply a non-gel toothpaste on the crayon marks. Gently rub the marks with an old toothbrush or a scrubber.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a universal cleaning hack. Take an old toothbrush or a rag. Dip this in vinegar to wipe off crayon stains.
Baking Soda
Make a thick paste by diluting baking soda in water. Use a cloth or a toothbrush to scrub off the crayon stains. After the stains are washed away, clean the area with soap water once again.
Mayonnaise
This unusual tip delivers promising results. Apply mayonnaise over the crayon marks and leave for several minutes. After a while, wash it off with a clean cloth.
Wet Wipes
Rub the wet wipes over crayon marks to get a clean wall. Use a gentle motion since intense rubbing may affect the wall paint.
Heat is the most important factor in removing these marks and since crayons are made of wax, heating it up allows you to wipe it off easily with a moist cloth. Make sure you get rid of these crayon scribbles gently since vigorous rubbing may ruin the paint on the walls.
