The dry-erase marker is the opposite of a wet-erase option, as it works reversibly. The qualities of the marker make it so it’s applicable in most cases. So if you have been using a dry-erase marker for some time, you might have wondered if you can use it on a car window.
Yes, you can use dry-erase markers on car windows. Dry-erase works flawlessly on both glass and tinted glass, so you can use the marker to write temporary messages on a car window without any long-term damage.
So, if you’re wanting to cover your windows in doodles yourself or, more likely, hand the markers to a child to mess around with back there, let’s dive into the details so you can be confident in your decision around letting the dry-erase markers loose in your car.
Are Dry-Erase Markers Safe to Use on Car Windows?
There are many ways you can use dry-erase markers, as there are no specific restrictions if you’re writing on a non-porous surface, which includes glass.
When it comes to car glass windows, it works just as well, and the marking can stay in place until you wipe it off, making this a good option if you want something you can use for temporary markings on the window.
How to Use Dry-Erase Markers on Car Windows
You can use the markers for different things, including writing important stuff. It’s not every day that vehicles will have writings on the windows. But if you need to mark a car regarding identification, the dry-erase marker can be helpful.
It’s also a good option for leaving a message. For example, when you’re late for work and want to remind yourself or your partner about something, you can write it on the car window, so either one of you will see the message later.
All these are possible because the dry-erase marker can be wiped out easily. To clean it off, you need a damp cloth, so there is no need for harsh scrubbing, as this could ruin your vehicle’s glass.
What are Dry-Erase Markers Made Out Of?
Different parts come together to create the different properties of a dry-erase marker. The components of the marker include pigment, which makes up 3.5 to 5%, ethanol occupying 48 to 71%, the agent 1 to 5%, propyl alcohol 15 to 25%, dispersion agent making up 1 to 2%, resin 3.5 to 5%, and liniment 5 to 10%.
The ink is blended with alcohol, so it’s easy to remove if used on a non-porous material. This is why these have become a popular choice globally for temporary markings.
However, while most markers are safe, some contain methyl isobutyl ketone. This chemical can irritate the eyes and nose and cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and other complications, so ensure safety while using the marker.
Removing Dry-Erase Ink from Skin
If you apply the ink to your skin, you could get sick. If you accidentally get some marks on the skin, use rubbing alcohol to remove the marks. Afterward, use soap to wash the skin and rinse with warm water to remove leftover chemicals.
More Permanant Solutions
If you want to mark glass permanently, there are other methods, as a dry-erase marker is a temporary option. Although it’s not easy to mark glass permanently, another choice would be acrylic paint pens, but these don’t last the same as permanent markers.
How Long Should Dry-Erase Markers be Left on Car Windows?
Dry-erase or whiteboard markers are a good choice that you can use on glass. Because there’s no permanent chemical composition, you have the flexibility to leave the writings on the window and remove them whenever you want.
And you don’t need to worry much about creating a mess, as it’s easy to remove. So even if you leave the marking on the window for weeks, there’s no risk of damage. s
Can You Use Dry Erase Markers on Car Paint?
A dry-erase marker offers the ability to create temporary markings on glass windows without long-term damage. However, this does not instantly make the marker a good option to use on a car body panel.
While you can use it on the glass, some of the chemicals in the ink could damage your car paint. And removing it could scratch the paint and cause damage, so it’s a good idea to avoid applying any markings on your vehicle paint.
However, if you ever get the ink on your car paint, get rubbing alcohol on a microfiber cloth, then wipe the ink from your car’s paint.
How to Remove Dry Erase Marker from Your Car
If you use a dry-erase marker to mark your vehicle’s window or body panel, you can follow a simple procedure to remove the markings. To get started:
- You’ll need a paper towel, tissue, or a microfiber towel.
- Soak the towel of your choice in water, but you can also sprinkle water on the window. If you want an effective alternative to water, you could use glass cleaner or cleaning liquids.
- Use the towel or tissue to wipe the marker.
- Lastly, you need to clean the window with water and allow it to dry.
You can use this procedure to clean a dry eraser ink from a body panel, but only with soap and water.
Conclusion
Deciding to use a dry-erase marker should never be a contention as it’s one of the suitable options you can find for a temporary marking.
It allows you to wipe the ink whenever you want without damaging the window. In addition, the ink is alcohol-based, which means it’s safe to use on a non-porous surface like your car window. And you can leave it on for as long as you want, so have fun!