How to Get Crayon Off a Wall: 10 Simple, Effective Methods
Crayon-doodled walls don’t have to stay permanent! Whether you’re battling toddler art or a coloring sprawl gone wild, these tried-and-true techniques use everyday household items to restore your walls to their pristine state—without harsh chemicals or repainting.
1. Iron + T-Shirt Trick
Place a folded old t-shirt over the crayon mark. Gently iron over the area (medium heat) to melt the wax and transfer it from the wall to the fabric. Rotate the shirt as needed to use clean fabric—magic without scrubbing!
2. Hairdryer Heat Method
Aim a hairdryer at the mark to soften the wax, then blot with a paper towel. Follow up with a damp cloth to clean any residue.
3. Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a little water to create a mild abrasive paste. Gently rub the crayon with a soft sponge, rinse with a damp cloth, and dry. This method is effective and inexpensive!
4. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
Activate the eraser with water and rub gently over the crayon marks. It’s powerful—but be cautious on flat finishes, as it can dull the paint.
5. Toothpaste (Non-Gel)
Apply a small dab of white toothpaste on a cloth or toothbrush and scrub gently in circular motions. Rinse and dry the wall.
6. Vinegar + Toothbrush
Dip an old toothbrush in white vinegar and gently scrub the marks. Wipe clean with a damp cloth afterward.
7. Mayonnaise Cleanup
Apply full-fat mayonnaise to the crayon marks and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Wipe away with a damp cloth—works best on semi-gloss or glossy paint. Test a small patch first.
8. Soft Scrub or Mild Abrasive
Use Soft Scrub, mild bleach-free cleanser, or toothpaste on tougher stains. Gently work in circular motions with a soft cloth, rinse, and dry.
9. WD-40 (Use With Caution)
This can lift stubborn crayon wax. Spray sparingly, wipe quickly, then clean thoroughly with soapy water to avoid oily residue.
10. Pencil Eraser Buffing
For light crayon lines, a gentle rub with a standard pencil eraser may do the trick—no liquid needed!
Quick Comparison
| Method | Best For | Caution |
|---|---|---|
| Iron / Hairdryer | Wax removal via heat | Don’t overheat or damage paint |
| Baking Soda / Toothpaste | Flat walls and moderate marks | Test paste on paint |
| Magic Eraser | Glossy finishes and tough stains | Avoid on matte paint |
| Mayonnaise | Breaking down wax for easy wipe-off | Clean residue after use |
| WD-40 | Very stubborn marks | Clean with soap post-use |
| Pencil Eraser | Light/color marks | May smear on soft paints |
Don’t stress over crayon-covered walls—there’s always a solution at home! Start with gentler, non-toxic options like baking soda or inexpensive toothpaste, and work your way up to heat or home hacks if needed. Always test on an inconspicuous spot first to preserve your paint finish.
Before you head off to tackle that colorful mural, you might enjoy these articles over at ClarksCondensed.com for more handy home tips:
