Buzz
Have you ever found yourself needing to write or draw something but your marker appeared faint or dried up? Instead of discarding it right away when it stops working, you can try several methods to revive it. This article will introduce you to the most effective ways to fix whiteboard markers, oil-based markers, and water-based markers, ensuring that the ink flows smoothly and the color remains bright and legible!
What you need to know
- For whiteboard markers: Use pliers to pull out the nib and reinsert it in reverse. Alternatively, tie a string around the marker and twist it to push the ink toward the nib.
- For oil-based or alcohol-based markers: Soak the tip in rubbing alcohol to re-moisten it. You can also try adding rubbing alcohol directly to the marker.
- For water-based markers: Dip the tip in water before writing. You can also spray glycerin on the tip or add water directly to the marker.
Steps to follow
Whiteboard markers
Remove the nib and reverse it for a quick fix. Use needle-nose pliers to grip the nib firmly and pull it straight out of the marker. Rotate the nib 180 degrees so the tip faces outward, then carefully reinsert it back into the marker for reuse.
- This method works best for markers with a flat tip.
- Perform this step over a sink or place a few sheets of paper towels on the table to catch any remaining ink in the marker body.
- The ink will soak into the dry nib, so if the marker dries again, simply reverse the nib once more.
Tie a string around the marker tip and twist to push ink to the tip. Seal the marker with its cap tightly, then wrap a length of string or dental floss around the marker tip. Use masking tape to secure the string in place, leaving about 30-60 cm of string free. Hold the string and rotate the marker for 10-15 seconds, as if twirling a lasso.
- The twisting force will push the ink toward the tip, allowing the marker to write again.
- You can also shake the marker for a similar result.
- If you need to handle multiple dried-out whiteboard markers, place them into a cup, tips pointing downward. Tape the string to the outside of the cup and spin it quickly. The spinning motion will keep the markers in place.
Add ink if your marker is refillable. Purchase ink in the same color as your marker. Remove the marker’s cap and stand it upright on the table. Use a dropper to add ink to the marker body until it is full, then screw the cap back on tightly.
- If your marker is not refillable, it may be best to simply buy a new one.
Oil-based and alcohol-based markers
Soak the marker tip in rubbing alcohol to rehydrate it. Pour 90-degree rubbing alcohol into a small cup enough to submerge the marker tip. Place the marker with the tip facing down and let it stand upright, ensuring the tip is immersed in the alcohol. Leave it like this until you see the ink start to flow. Then, simply remove the marker, put the cap back on, and wait 15 minutes before using.
- Stick the marker to the side of the cup or lean it against something to keep it standing straight.
Drop rubbing alcohol into the marker to pull out the remaining ink. Use needle-nose pliers to grip just above the nib. Gently pull the nib out of the marker body to expose the inner ink chamber. Use a dropper to add a few drops of rubbing alcohol into the open end of the ink chamber. Reassemble the marker and wait 1-2 minutes before using it again.
- Be careful when handling the ink chamber, as it may spill ink on your hands.
Close the cap and place the marker tip down to keep the tip moist when not in use. Oil-based markers and alcohol-based markers can dry out if left horizontally or stored in a cup with the tip facing up. Tighten the cap securely and place the marker in a cup or pen holder with the tip facing downward. Gravity will pull the ink down to the tip, allowing you to write immediately.
Water-based markers
Dip the marker tip in warm water to moisten it before use. Keep a small cup of warm water nearby when you need to use the marker. If the marker is dry and not writing well, quickly dip the tip into the warm water and shake off any excess. The water will help the ink flow more easily through the tip and make writing smoother.
- This also works for highlighter markers since they are also water-based.
- After using the marker, dip the tip in water for about 5 seconds before sealing it with the cap. Then, wait a day before using it again.
Try spraying glycerin solution on the nib for a quick fix. Mix 1 part glycerin with 3 parts water in a small spray bottle. Spray the glycerin solution onto the marker tip just before using it to help the ink flow more easily through the nib.
Drop water into the marker to rehydrate the remaining ink inside. Use needle-nose pliers to gently pull the nib straight out of the marker body. Stand the marker upright and add a few drops of water into the body and the nib. Then, reinsert the nib and try writing.
- Avoid filling the marker completely with water, as it will dilute the ink and cause it to fade.
Place the marker tip in a cup to restore it overnight. After using the marker, securely close the cap and place the marker tip down in a cup or pen holder. After a day, gravity will help any remaining ink flow to the tip, allowing you to write again.
Tips
- Wear gloves when fixing markers to avoid getting ink on your hands.
- Always close the cap tightly when not in use to prevent the marker tip from drying out.
Warning
- If the marker still doesn't work after trying the methods mentioned above, the ink may be completely used up and you may need to replace it.
What You'll Need
Whiteboard Marker
- Needle-Nose Pliers
- Thread or Dental Floss
- Masking Tape
- Whiteboard Marker Ink
- Dropper
Oil-based markers and alcohol-based markers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Cleaning alcohol
- Dropper
Water-based markers
- Glycerin
- Small spray bottle
- Needle-nose pliers
