Chalk markers are a fun way to personalize car windows for celebrations, sports events, or even to sell a vehicle. The variety of colors and ease of use make them an easy option for temporary decoration. But are they safe to use? And what type of chalk marker is best?
Water-based chalk markers are the safest way to decorate car windows because they are easy to apply and come off with soap and water. Oil-based chalk markers are not the best option as they require a solvent to remove since the pigments are not water-soluble.
Let’s look at what chalk markers are made of and if they are safe to use on car windows. You’ll also find out which formula is best to use and how long you should leave the chalk marker on your car. Also, learn the best way to remove chalk marker from your car windows.
What are Chalk Markers?
Chalk markers are a type of paint marker that come in a range of colors and are often used for temporary writing or drawing on non-porous surfaces like glass, metal, or plastic.
The markers have pigment in a pressurized container that forces the ink out of the nib (tip) and onto the surface after the nib is depressed. The ink is usually a water or oil-based pigment suspended in a liquid.
The paint is usually light-colored and opaque, and the markers come in different tips, from fine to chisel, which allows you to create thick or thin lines when writing or drawing.
Is it Safe to Use Markers on Car Windows?
The short answer is yes, using chalk markers on car windows is safe. The ink is water-based and will not damage the glass or leave a residue. However, there are a few things to remember when using chalk markers on your car windows.
- Clean the car window before writing or drawing on it to help the chalk paint to adhere to the glass and prevent smudging.
- Opt for a water-based marker, as oil-based paint markers can be challenging to remove, leading to damage or staining of the glass.
- Test the marker on a small window area before writing or drawing your design to make sure the color is opaque enough. You may need to add a second layer if the first one is not dense enough.
- Let the paint dry completely before touching it or driving the car. Doing this will help prevent smudging and ensure the design lasts longer. You can also draw on the inside of the window to help protect the design from the elements.
What are Chalk Markers Made Out of?
Chalk markers usually don’t contain any actual chalk. Instead, ink consists of a pigment and a carrier. The pigment gives color to the ink, while the carrier helps the ink to stick to the surface.
The base is usually magnesium carbonate because it’s less likely to crumble and create dust, unlike calcium carbonate, which is what chalk sticks are made from.
Water-based markers use water as the carrier, while oil-based markers use mineral or another type of oil. The oil makes the ink more durable and resistant to fading, but it can also be more difficult to remove.
Other ingredients may include glycerin (for consistency) and preservatives (to prevent mold). Some markers, such as dry erase, also contain alcohol, which helps the ink to dry quickly.
Which Formula is Best to Use on Cars?
There are two types of chalk paint available on the market: water-based and oil-based. Both have advantages and disadvantages to consider before choosing which one to use on your car windows.
Water-Based Chalk Markers
Water-based chalk markers (on Amazon) are easier to work with and clean up than oil-based paint because it is water-soluble. So, if you make a mistake while painting, you can use a damp cloth to wipe it away and start again. They also have a more matte finish, which some people prefer.
On the downside, water-based chalk paint is less durable than oil-based paint and is more susceptible to fading in direct sunlight.
Oil-Based Chalk Markers
Oil-based chalk markers (on Amazon) have a glossier finish and are more resistant to fading in direct sunlight than water-based paint. They are also more durable, so your car windows will have a longer-lasting design.
However, they can be more challenging to work with because they are not water-soluble. As a result, if you make a mistake while painting, you will need to use a solvent (like rubbing alcohol) to remove the paint before starting again.
So, which chalk paint should you use on your car windows? Ultimately, it comes down to preference. If you want a more matte finish and easier cleanup, go with water-based paint. If you want a glossier finish and more durability, go with oil-based paint.
Whichever type of chalk paint you choose, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results.
How Long Should You Leave Chalk Marker on Your Car?
Generally, a few days to a week is plenty of time to enjoy your chalk marker car art. But you can leave chalk marker on your car for as long as you want with no issues, but it will eventually fade.
If you live in a sunny climate, your design will fade faster than in a cooler, shaded area because UV light can break down pigments in ink. Also, be aware that the longer you leave chalk marker on your car, the more difficult it will be to remove.
Water-based paint will still come off with soapy water but may require more effort in scrubbing. Oil-based paint will still require a solvent, like WD-40 or rubbing alcohol, but you may need to soak the marker for 15-20 minutes for the solvent to work its way under the paint.
How to Remove Chalk Marker from Your Car
The process of removing chalk marker from your car will vary based on the type of paint you used and how long it’s been on your windows.
To Remove Water-Based Chalk Marker
You only need a bucket of soapy water and a sponge or cloth. Wet the sponge in the water and rub the chalk marker in a circular motion until it comes off.
You may need to use a little elbow grease, but it should come off with no issue. If the chalk marker is not coming off quickly, let the soapy water sit on the ink for a few minutes before scrubbing again.
To Remove Oil-Based Chalk Marker
You will need a solvent like WD-40 or rubbing alcohol and a sponge or cloth. Saturate the sponge with the solvent and rub the chalk marker in a circular motion until it comes off.
You may need to let the solvent sit on the marker for 15-20 minutes to soak in before scrubbing. Once the marker is gone, wash the area with soapy water to remove any residual solvent.
You may need to repeat the process with either type of paint to remove all the chalk marker. And if there are still residual stains, you can try using a Magic Eraser (on Amazon) to remove them.