Remove Sharpie and other stains from linoleum flooring with this guide

Linoleum flooring is a popular choice for many homeowners due to its durability, affordability, and easy maintenance. However, like any flooring material, linoleum is not completely immune to stains, and one of the more stubborn stains you might encounter is Sharpie marker stains.

Sharpie stains, along with other common household stains, can be frustrating to deal with, but with the right techniques and a little elbow grease, you can restore the beauty of your linoleum flooring. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to effectively remove Sharpie and other stains from your linoleum flooring.

Materials You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

Clean, soft cloths
Rubbing alcohol (Isopropyl alcohol)
Cotton balls or swabs
Warm water
Mild dish soap
Soft-bristle brush
Plastic scraper or credit card
Baking soda (optional)
Hydrogen peroxide (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Act Quickly:

The key to successfully removing stains, especially Sharpie, is to act promptly. The longer a stain sits on your linoleum flooring, the more difficult it will be to remove.

Test in an Inconspicuous Area:

Before you apply any cleaning solution to the stained area, test it in an inconspicuous spot on your linoleum flooring to ensure it won't cause damage or discoloration.

Rubbing Alcohol:

For Sharpie marker stains, start by soaking a cotton ball or swab in rubbing alcohol. Gently dab the stained area with the alcohol-soaked cotton ball, being careful not to rub too hard, as this could damage the linoleum's surface. Continue to dab until the stain begins to lift.

Warm Soapy Water:

If the rubbing alcohol doesn't completely remove the stain, try using warm water and a mild dish soap. Mix a few drops of dish soap in a bowl of warm water, then dampen a clean cloth with the soapy water. Gently blot the stain with the cloth, moving in a circular motion. Rinse the area with clean water and dry it thoroughly.

Soft-Bristle Brush:

For tougher stains or those that have been on the flooring for a while, you can use a soft-bristle brush to scrub the area. Be gentle to avoid scratching the linoleum.

Plastic Scraper or Credit Card:

If the stain persists, you can use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to gently scrape the stained area. Do this carefully to avoid scratching the linoleum. Always scrape in the direction of the flooring's pattern to minimize damage.

Baking Soda Paste (Optional):

For stubborn stains, you can make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly.

Hydrogen Peroxide (Optional):

If the stain still won't budge, you can try hydrogen peroxide. Apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then blot it up with a clean cloth.

Final Cleaning and Drying:

After successfully removing the stain, clean the entire area with warm, soapy water to ensure no residue is left behind. Rinse with clean water and dry the floor thoroughly.