How to Remove Crayon or Marker Marks on Wood

Whether you have kids, take care of kids, or happen to be in the vicinity of one, crayon marks seem to be naturally attracted to things that should not be marked upon. Furniture, walls, and occasionally appliances tend to be hit the worst in the storm of children with crayons. Therefore, this list is dedicated to ways to remove crayon from all surfaces using common household supplies.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great natural cleaner, even for crayon. Just mix some baking powder with a little water to create a semi-gritty paste. The power of baking powder will help lift the crayon while the gritty texture will help to combat the waxy consistency that seems to get pushed into the cracks of whatever surface it touches.

Mayonnaise
For whatever reason, mayonnaise is great for removing anything that children have done (including crayon marks). Spoon out a big dollop and rub it into the crayon spot, leave it for about 5 minutes then wipe it off. Mayonnaise also works great for removing those stickers that children tend to stick on the refrigerator and furniture.

Baby Oil
The oiliness of baby oil is a wonder ingredient that completely lifts crayon stains. Dampen a cloth with the baby oil and rub it on the crayon mark in a circular motion (don't be afraid to use some elbow grease). The crayon mark should lift pretty quickly, if not, you may not be using enough baby oil.

Vinegar
Vinegar is great for cleaning almost anything, but it's awesome for vanquishing crayon marks. All you have to do is dampen a cloth with some, and rub the crayon mark away. Vinegar is also great for cleaning the kitchen, bathroom, and everything in between. I worked at a restaurant once and we used a mixture of vinegar and water for all of our cleanings around the food preparation area because of state law regarding cleaning chemicals.

Toothpaste
Toothpaste is great, it eliminates the waxy texture, which is the hardest part of cleaning up crayon and then it also makes it super easy to wipes of the color. Try using the cheap toothpaste that's kind of gritty so it'll really wear the wax away.

At some point in your life, a child, whether it yours or a friends, is bound to mark something of yours with a crayon. It's like a law of physics, it will happen. But at least you can be prepared and know exactly how to eradicate the unattractive artwork that has found its way onto the walls of your hallway.