Few things test a parent’s patience more than discovering your child’s artistic masterpiece drawn across the living room wall. Crayon marks may look stubborn, but with the right methods, you can remove them without damaging paint or finishes. This guide will walk you through how to get crayon off the walls using safe, practical, and affordable solutions.
Whether you’re dealing with a small scribble or a full mural, this step-by-step article covers everything you need to know—from common household cleaning methods to preventive tips that will keep your walls looking fresh.
Why Crayon Marks Are Tricky to Remove
Crayons are made from wax and pigment, which is why they stick firmly to most surfaces. Unlike pencil or washable markers, crayon doesn’t dissolve easily in water. If not cleaned properly, crayon can smear, leaving an even bigger mess. That’s why using the right cleaning method for your wall type is important.
Tools and Supplies You May Need
Before you begin, gather the tools and supplies that will make the job easier. Not every method requires all of these, but having options at hand means you won’t need to stop halfway through.
Common cleaning supplies include:
- Soft microfibre cloths or sponges
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Dishwashing liquid
- Bi-carb soda paste
- Magic eraser sponges
- Toothpaste (non-gel, white type)
- Olive oil or coconut oil
- Hairdryer
- Old toothbrush or soft-bristled brush
- Dry towels or paper towels
Step 1: Test a Hidden Spot First
Before trying any cleaning solution, always test it on a small, hidden section of the wall (behind furniture or near the skirting board). This ensures the method won’t damage your paint, wallpaper, or finish.
Methods to Get Crayon Off Painted Walls
Painted walls are the most common type in homes, but finishes vary. The right approach will depend on whether you have flat, satin, semi-gloss, or gloss paint.
Baking Soda Paste
- Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the crayon marks with a sponge.
- Rub gently in circular motions until the marks lift.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Dish Soap and Warm Water
- Mix a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid into warm water.
- Dip a sponge into the soapy solution and wring it out well.
- Gently scrub the crayon marks, then rinse with clean water.
Magic Eraser Sponge
- Wet the sponge slightly.
- Rub gently on the crayon marks.
- Avoid pressing too hard, especially on flat or matte paint, as it can remove paint.
Toothpaste Trick
- Apply a small dab of white (non-gel) toothpaste onto a cloth.
- Rub the toothpaste over the crayon mark.
- Wipe with a damp cloth to remove residue.
How to Get Crayon Off Wallpapered Walls
Wallpaper can be delicate, so extra care is required.
- For washable wallpaper: Use a damp sponge with mild soap. Rub gently until the crayon fades.
- For non-washable wallpaper: Stick to dry methods. Try gently rubbing with a pencil eraser or using a dry cleaning sponge.
- Grease-based stains: Apply a small amount of cornflour or baking soda to absorb the wax before gently wiping.
Avoid soaking wallpaper with water, as it can cause bubbling or peeling.
Removing Crayon from Textured Walls
Textured walls, such as brick or plaster, can trap crayon wax in grooves. To clean effectively:
- Use a dry toothbrush to loosen crayon wax from textured surfaces.
- Apply a baking soda paste and scrub gently.
- For stubborn wax, warm the area with a hairdryer on a low heat setting, then blot with a paper towel.
- Wipe clean with soapy water.
Using Heat to Lift Crayon
Because crayons are wax-based, heat can help soften the marks for easier removal.
- Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting.
- Hold it a few centimetres from the wall and heat the crayon marks for 30–60 seconds.
- Wipe the softened wax with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Finish with a mild soap solution to remove leftover pigment.
This method works especially well on glossy or semi-gloss painted walls.
Natural and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Options
If you prefer non-chemical solutions, there are natural methods that can safely remove crayon:
- Vinegar solution: Dab white vinegar onto a cloth and gently rub the marks. Rinse with clean water.
- Olive or coconut oil: Apply a small amount to a cloth and rub gently. The oil helps dissolve the wax, which you can then wipe away with soapy water.
- Baking soda: As mentioned earlier, this natural abrasive is safe and effective.
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Crayon
It’s easy to accidentally damage your walls if you’re not careful. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Scrubbing too hard, which can remove paint.
- Using harsh chemicals like bleach on painted walls.
- Forgetting to rinse and dry the wall after cleaning, which can leave streaks.
- Overheating the wall with a hairdryer, which may affect paint finishes.
Preventing Future Crayon Marks
While children’s creativity should be encouraged, it’s also worth taking steps to protect your walls.
Practical prevention tips:
- Designate a drawing area with paper, chalkboards, or whiteboards.
- Use washable crayons and markers for younger kids.
- Add a clear protective coating or washable paint in play areas.
- Place large sheets of paper on tables during craft time.
- Teach kids early where drawing is allowed and where it’s not.
When to Repaint Instead of Cleaning
Sometimes, crayon stains can leave behind discolouration or damage after cleaning. If your walls are older or already due for a refresh, repainting may be the best solution.
- Wash the walls thoroughly before repainting.
- Use a primer to cover any stains or colour bleed.
- Choose washable, scrubbable paints for family areas.
This also gives you the chance to start fresh and make future cleaning easier.
How to Get Crayon Off the Walls vs General Wall Cleaning
You may be wondering about the difference between targeted stain removal and regular maintenance. While removing crayon requires specific methods, general upkeep such as dusting and wiping can prevent dirt from settling on top of marks. If you already know how to clean walls effectively, you’ll find it much easier to remove stubborn stains like crayon when they happen.
Final Tips for Success
To sum up, removing crayon from walls doesn’t need to be stressful. Here’s a quick recap of the most effective approaches:
- Start with gentle methods like soap and water before moving to stronger ones.
- Baking soda, toothpaste, and vinegar are simple, safe household solutions.
- Heat (via a hairdryer) can soften wax for easier removal.
- Always test cleaners on a small hidden area first.
- Prevent future messes with washable paints and designated play areas.
With patience and the right technique, you can restore your walls without repainting or damaging surfaces.
Conclusion
Crayon marks on walls are a common challenge in homes with children, but they don’t have to be permanent. With the methods outlined above, you can safely and effectively learn how to get crayon off the walls no matter what type of surface you’re dealing with. From eco-friendly cleaners like vinegar and baking soda to practical tools like magic erasers and hairdryers, there’s a solution for every situation.
By staying prepared and preventing future messes, you can keep your home looking fresh while still allowing little ones to express their creativity—just on the right surface.
