Cleaning a Whiteboard: Best Practices

 

 

Maintaining the Quality of Your Whiteboard

Hitting the market in the 1960’s, whiteboards took off in the 90’s and are now an essential piece in many work settings and schools. Whether you’ve experienced issues like ghosting, staining, markers not writing well, scratching or residue, a lot of these issues stem from the board itself not being cleaned properly. So, how do you clean a whiteboard? 

The Do’s and Don’ts of Whiteboards:

How To Clean Whiteboards with Chemicals

When using chemicals to clean your whiteboard, it’s crucial to make sure you know what to use and what not to use to maintain the integrity of your whiteboard. With the cleaning products we’ve listed, we recommend using a microfiber cloth to prevent potential scratches. Never use paper towels or other abrasive cleaning cloths as they will inevitably damage the surface of your whiteboard. 

It is important to always follow the manufacturer's instructions, including proper dilution and dwell time. Generally, the following EPA approved cleaners work great on Ghent boards and do not cause damage.  

  • • Isopropyl Alcohol: When slightly diluted with water, this is a great combination to remove stains and marks.

  • • Generic Whiteboard Cleaner: An obvious choice, but very effective! Spray a small amount onto a microfiber cloth before use. 

  • • Mild Detergent and Water: Dawn dish soap works great with a bit of water to remove residue and built-up oils.

No Chemicals? No Problem! 

It is possible to get a beautiful clean result without using any harsh chemicals. If using less chemicals is more up your alley, here are some easy methods to clean your whiteboard.

  •  Used Fabric Softener Sheet: A used fabric softener sheet will not scratch or damage the surface of your whiteboard, and while this method isn’t a cleaner, it can remove early stains or marks. 

  • • Magic Erasers: A staple for removing stains anywhere - including your whiteboard!

  • • Vinegar and Water: Used for years as a tough cleaning agent, vinegar and water works great for ghosting, stains, oils and residue. Add 1 tsp of vinegar per every cup of water for maximum benefit!

Maintain Your Board by Avoiding These Products!

Whiteboards are an investment and like anything, you want to make sure it lasts a long time. Here is a list of what to avoid when it comes to cleaning your whiteboards:

  •  Don’t use your hands to wipe a whiteboard! Your skin carries natural oils that over time will leave a build-up of oil residue on your board. This can eventually ruin the surface of your whiteboard. 

  •  Stay away from wax-based cleaners. These end up leaving heavy film residues.

  •  Do not use any abrasive cleaners, or common household cleaners like Comet, toothpaste, etc. These will all physically scratch your whiteboard causing irreversible damage.

  •  Ammonia-based cleaners are also a no-go, such as common household glass cleaners. This will yellow the whiteboard surface and leave behind a film. 

While it may seem easy to clean a whiteboard – and it is! – it’s important to consider what products you use and to be more intentional in caring for it overall. A clean board not only looks great, but encourages use. A stain and ghost free surface is the best blank canvas to get ideas churning! However you choose to brainstorm, these tips will ensure your board looks as bright as the first day you got it.

 

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