Maya Ellison
Crayons are mostly made of wax, so removing crayon marks from plastic items can be challenging. One way to remove crayon wax is to melt it using scalding hot water or a clothes iron, and then wiping it off. Alternatively, petroleum jelly can be used to remove crayon wax from hard surfaces. Multipurpose spray cleaners, lighter fluid, baking soda, dish soap, and magic erasers are also recommended for removing crayon marks from plastic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Hot water | Scalding hot water can be used to melt wax crayon marks and allow them to be wiped away |
| Steam iron | Using an iron over wax crayon marks can melt the wax so that it can be absorbed by a cloth or paper |
| Hairspray | Spraying hairspray on wax crayon marks and wiping before it dries can remove the marks |
| Petroleum jelly | Applying petroleum jelly to wax crayon marks can help remove them from hard surfaces |
| Multipurpose spray cleaner | Spraying a multipurpose cleaner on wax crayon marks and wiping with a paper towel can remove the marks |
| Citrus-based cleaner | Using a citrus-based cleaner can be a safe alternative to harsh chemicals for removing wax crayon marks |
| Baking soda | Applying a baking soda paste can rub away wax crayon marks |
| Dish soap | Soaking a paper towel or cloth in warm water and dish soap and laying it over wax crayon marks can help remove them |
| Magic Eraser | Using a Magic Eraser can quickly wear away wax crayon marks, but may create fine scratches on the surface |
| Toothpaste | Using toothpaste can help clean wax crayon marks from plastic |
| Soft Scrub | Using Soft Scrub can help clean wax crayon marks from plastic |
| Lighter fluid | Applying lighter fluid to wax crayon marks can quickly dissolve them without harming the plastic |
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What You'll Learn
Using hot water or a clothes iron
To remove crayon wax from a plastic container using hot water, run the container under hot water or fill it with hot water and let it soak for a few minutes to melt the wax. Then, wipe the container with a sponge or cloth to remove the wax. This method may not get rid of every trace of crayon, so you may need to repeat the process or try another method.
Alternatively, use a clothes iron to melt the crayon wax off. Place tissue paper or a folded tea towel over the crayon stain and set the iron on top of the paper or cloth. Be sure to set the iron to low heat and turn off the steam function. As the paper or cloth heats up, the wax will melt and adhere to it. You can also try holding the iron a few inches above the crayon stain to melt it, and then wipe the wax off with a cloth. Be careful not to touch the hot iron or to let the hot wax touch your skin.
If you are using hot water, it is important to be cautious and avoid burning yourself. Always test the temperature of the water before submerging the item or pouring water over it. If the water is too hot, it may damage the plastic container or cause injury.
Similarly, when using an iron, be cautious to avoid burns and potential fire hazards. Do not leave the iron unattended, and keep it away from children and pets. Make sure the iron is unplugged and cooled down before storing it.
It is also important to note that these methods may not work for all types of plastic. Some plastics may be heat-resistant and require different approaches. Always check the care instructions or consult a professional if you are unsure.
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Petroleum jelly
Another method that can be used in conjunction with petroleum jelly is to use a hairdryer to soften the wax. Simply blow the warm air from the hairdryer onto the wax until it softens, then wipe it away with a paper towel. You can also use boiling water to melt the wax and then wipe it off with a paper towel.
If the crayon wax is on a textured plastic surface, you may need to use a different approach. One option is to use lighter fluid, which is effective at dissolving wax crayon marks without harming the plastic. The active ingredient in lighter fluid is naphtha, a powerful cleaner that works well on grease and wax. Simply apply a small amount of lighter fluid to a cotton swab or scrub brush and go over the marks until they fade. Then, wipe away the dissolved wax with a paper towel.
Another option for removing crayon wax from textured plastic surfaces is to use a solvent such as turpentine, mineral spirits (paint thinner), or naphtha. These solvents effectively dissolve wax without damaging most finishes. Be sure to read the ingredients of any paint thinner you use to ensure it does not contain acetone, which can damage finishes. Simply dampen a cloth with one of these solvents and wipe over the surface to remove the wax.
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Multipurpose spray cleaner
To remove crayon wax from a plastic container, a multipurpose spray cleaner can be used. This is a good option as it is likely that you already have it in your home, and it can be used to clean crayon off a variety of surfaces, including floors.
Firstly, douse the plastic with the multipurpose spray cleaner. Leave the cleaner to sit on the crayon wax for a few minutes. The exact amount of time will depend on how stubborn the stain is—for tougher crayon stains, leave the cleaner for about five minutes. Then, wipe the area with paper towels or a rag, and rinse. If the crayon wax is still present, you may need to scrub the area with a damp cloth or rag.
If the crayon wax is still not coming off, you can try using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, which is more abrasive than baking soda and will be able to wear away the crayon wax quickly. However, this method may create fine scratches on the plastic surface, so it is recommended to try other methods first.
Another option is to use ice to harden the crayon wax, making it easier to scrape off. Place a rag soaked in ice water over the crayon wax, or simply wait for the wax to harden on its own. Once the wax has hardened, use a putty knife to lift up as many sections of the wax as possible. Then, apply your multipurpose spray cleaner and wipe the area with a rag.
Citrus-based multipurpose spray cleaners are a good option if you are concerned about using harsh chemicals, especially around children.
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Baking soda
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Soda Solution
Start by dampening a clean microfiber cloth with warm water. Sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda onto the damp cloth. The water will react with the baking soda to form a mild abrasive paste. Alternatively, you can create a thicker paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water in a separate container before applying it to the cloth.
Step 2: Apply the Paste to the Crayon Marks
Using the baking soda-coated cloth, gently scrub the crayon-stained areas in a circular motion. For more stubborn stains, you can also use a sponge or a soft brush to apply the paste. If you are working on a textured plastic surface, a brush might help reach into the grooves and scrub off the crayon marks effectively.
Step 3: Wipe Away the Residue
Once you have scrubbed the crayon marks and they have started to dissipate, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda residue. You may need to use a little extra pressure or repeat the process if the crayon marks are particularly stubborn.
Other Tips:
- For even better results, try using a combination of baking soda and an SOS pad. This method has proven to be very effective in removing crayon marks from plastic surfaces.
- If you are concerned about using harsh chemicals, opt for a citrus-based or natural cleaner that is safe for use around children.
- For melted crayon wax, you can try using a steam iron to gently melt the wax and then wipe it off with a cloth. Alternatively, place a folded tea towel over the wax and iron it, allowing the tea towel to absorb the wax.
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Lighter fluid
To use lighter fluid to remove crayon wax, start by soaking the affected area with the fluid and letting it sit for a few minutes. The fluid will start to dissolve the crayon colour. If the plastic surface is smooth, you can then wipe the crayon and lighter fluid away with a paper towel. It is recommended to wear kitchen rubber gloves while doing this. If the surface is textured, you may need to scrub the area with a cotton swab or a scrub brush, applying more lighter fluid as needed.
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Frequently asked questions
Try using a multipurpose spray cleaner, or a citrus-based cleaner if you're concerned about using harsh chemicals. Douse the plastic with the cleaner, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe the area with paper towels.
Baking soda can be used to rub away crayon wax. Dampen a clean microfiber cloth and pour about a tablespoon of baking soda onto it. You can also try using dish soap, which is designed to cut through grease. Soak a paper towel or microfiber cloth in warm soapy water and lay it over the crayon marks for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Yes, you can try using vegetable oil, which crayon wax is soluble in. You can then clean the container with soapy water. Alternatively, try using lighter fluid, which works quickly to dissolve wax crayon marks without harming the plastic.
If the wax is still visible, try using a clothes iron. Place tissue paper over the crayon and set an iron on a low heat over the paper. As the paper heats up, the wax will adhere to it and lift off.
