Skip to content
About Us
Testimonials
Partners
Resources
FAQ Contact Us
Free Shipping $50+
No Minimums
Free Returns
Free Shipping $50+
No Minimums
Free Returns
Express Car Washes
Schools Universities
Manufacturing
OEM & Brands
Distributors
Commercial Cleaning
Residential Cleaning
Dairy
Hospitality
Textile Rental
Healthcare
package
Need Samples?
Express Car Washes
Schools Universities
Manufacturing
OEM & Brands
Distributors
Commercial Cleaning
Residential Cleaning
Dairy
Hospitality
Textile Rental
Healthcare
package
Our Products

Your Cart

Add More. Save More. Ship Free.

Microfiber Glass Cleaning Pack

Microfiber Glass Cleaning Pack

$16.98
5x7 Microfiber Lens & Glass Cleaning Cloth - 2 Pack With Case

5x7 Microfiber Lens & Glass Cleaning Cloth - 2 Pack With Case

$7.98
Select Color: Paisley
15

15"x20" Barrier Laundry Bag with Backpack Style Closure - Pack of 2

$11.98
10

10" Microfiber Scrubber Mop

$13.98
16

16 "x 16" Buff™ Detail 400 GSM Microfiber Towel

$19.98
Select Color: Gray
Genie Sheets Combo All-Purpose, Glass, Bathroom - 2 each per pack

Genie Sheets Combo All-Purpose, Glass, Bathroom - 2 each per pack

$7.98
Genie Sheets - All-Purpose Cleaning Sheets - 6 per pack

Genie Sheets - All-Purpose Cleaning Sheets - 6 per pack

$6.98
Discount Code?

Taxes And Discount Applied On Check Out

Secure Checkout View Cart
We Got You Covered

Have any questions?  Chat or Call Us at 877-791-6677

Using Microfiber to Clean Dry Erase Boards

Using Microfiber to Clean Dry Erase Boards

In this blog post, you'll learn:

  • The different materials dry erase boards are made of.
  • How to clean even the most stubborn stains from whiteboards.
  • How to maintain your dry erase board, so it lasts for years to come.

How often have you left writing on your dry-erase board surface for a prolonged period, only to find the marker either doesn't come off quickly or leaves behind a stain that's tricky to budge?

We've all been there.

Like anything, cleaning whiteboards or dry-erase boards can be frustrating if you don't have the correct tools for the job. But it shouldn't be that difficult.

What are whiteboards made of?

Whiteboard with four colored whiteboard markers and eraser

There are four types of materials used to make whiteboards. These vary in price, quality, and technique for cleaning.

The four materials are:

  • Melamine
  • Tempered glass
  • Painted steel
  • Porcelain

Melamine dry erase boards

Melamine is typically more affordable and usually the most difficult to keep stain-free. Melamine is more porous than the other materials, allowing the ink to soak in, which makes it harder to remove.

And while certain cleaning products work for most whiteboards, which we will outline in this blog post, melamine whiteboards are more prone to damage if cleaned incorrectly, thanks to their scratchable plastic surface.

Tempered glass dry erase board

Tempered glass is a more modern style of dry-erase boards, usually made without a border or frame. Because they're made from glass, they're durable and generally scratch resistant.

You can sometimes get magnetic glass whiteboards, and overall, they can cost a little more than melamine whiteboards but are much easier to clean and maintain.

Smaller shiteboard next to a book, vase, and whiteboard markers

Painted steel dry-erase boards

Painted steel whiteboards are most commonly found in classrooms and offices. They're exactly as the name suggests; steel that has been painted with a white base coat and a clear top coat.

The steel material automatically makes them magnetic, and although heavy-duty, painted steel dry-erase boards typically won't last as long as glass whiteboards.

Porcelain dry-erase boards

The fourth type is the porcelain dry-erase board, which is generally the most expensive. But like glass, they are non-porous, so the ink won't bleed into the material.

Porcelain is the heaviest of the four materials and sometimes has a steel backing, making it magnetic and more durable.

Now that you've identified the material your whiteboard is made of, you'll be able to clean it more efficiently.

The best way to clean dry erase boards

hand wiping a whiteboard clean with an eraser

The best way to clean dry-erase boards is generally the same for all four materials. Though, for melamine whiteboards, you will need to take extra care, so you don't damage the surface.  

This next section will outline the best products and tools to clean dry-erase boards.

The best products to clean whiteboards

You may automatically reach for a bottle of surface spray to clean dry-erase boards. And while just about anything can remove newer whiteboard markers, not all cleaners can remove older marker stains from whiteboards.

The best product to remove new markers from whiteboards is a microfiber towel, like our Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths. Unlike our Microfiber Cloths which are a woven warp terry (similar to a traditional cotton towel) and a softer texture, the Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths are made using a flat weave, which gives them the ability to dry and polish in a flash.

If you have a larger surface area or there are some stubborn spots, you'll benefit from using our Microfiber Hand Trowel Tool and Microfiber Wall Wash Mop Pad.

When using a cloth to clean, the pressure is applied to the surface only where your hand is, making it a more prolonged and laborious task. But when you use a tool like our hand trowel and microfiber mop pad, you give yourself a larger surface area to clean with, and the pressure is applied to the entire 9.5-inch surface of the trowel.

Work smarter, not harder.

Microfiber Hand Trowel Tool + Mop Pads (Sold Separately)

  • Perfect For Using On Harder To Clean Areas!
  • Microfiber Wall Wash Pads clean great with just water and are machine washable.
  • Great For Scrubbing!

If you find that the marker is still not budging or you have some stubborn stains, this is when you may want to add a spritz of isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is rubbing alcohol. It comes in various percentages, but for this, you may want to get 75% or higher.

Use isopropyl alcohol with the mop pad and trowel or the microfiber glass cleaning cloth to remove any lingering stains on your dry-erase board.

When you're done using the alcohol, allow it to air dry. You can then go over it with the Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths to polish the surface if needed.

This method is safe for all four types of dry-erase boards.

Other products you could use to clean dry erase boards

If you don't have any of the above products on hand but you're looking for a quick solution, you may have one of these products at home:

  • Whiteboard markers
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Hairspray
  • WD-40
  • Dryer sheets

Whiteboard markers are a little hack you may already know of. When drawn over the top of old existing marker stains, or even permanent marker stains, it can sometimes lift the ink off. However, this usually doesn't work for embedded stains and can take longer to use.

Hand sanitizer is alcohol-based, so just like isopropyl alcohol, it can effectively lift stubborn stains. Be sure to choose one that isn't diluted with other ingredients, as some hand sanitizers can be. Use it with a microfiber cloth.

Hairspray can lift stubborn markers from dry erase boards by spritzing it onto the stain and wiping it off with a microfiber cloth. Be sure to clean the surface once you're done using a detergent and clean microfiber cloth, as the hairspray will leave a residue.

WD-40 can also be a quick alternative. Spray it on the stain, allow it to sit for a few seconds, and then wipe away with a microfiber cloth. Again, clean the surface with a detergent and a clean microfiber cloth afterward to remove any WD-40 residue.

Dryer sheets are a lesser-known hack for removing stubborn marker stains. Rub the dryer sheet over the offending mark until it lifts off. This may not remove deeper stains and should be cleaned off afterward with detergent and a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residual dryer sheet wax.

Three things to avoid when cleaning your whiteboard

green toothpaste squeezed out of tube

There are a few things you should avoid when it comes to cleaning your dry-erase board. First, you don't want to use wax-based cleaners or polishing products. These are unnecessary and will create a barrier on the surface, making them ineffective to use.

The second thing to avoid is abrasive cleaners. Products like the Pink Stuff, bicarb soda, or toothpaste all have grit, and particularly with melamine whiteboards, you will scratch the surface if you try and clean it with one of these products.

Something I'm sure we're all guilty of is using your fingers to wipe the marker away. Our fingers contain oils, and you leave behind oily residue each time you brush your finger over the dry-erase board. If you don't clean the whiteboard regularly with a detergent, this oil can build up, and your whiteboard will become less effective over time.

How to prolong the life of your dry erase board

blue, red, green, and black whiteboard markers with caps off

We've already outlined what to use and what not to use to clean your whiteboard. But how do you ensure your dry-erase board remains in good condition? Follow these four things:

  • Use good quality products.
  • Replace old markers.
  • Don't erase ink when it's still drying.
  • Remove ink when you're done.

As mentioned before, your products and tools will determine how difficult it is to clean your dry-erase board. But these products are also better for your whiteboard, avoiding damage, so they'll last longer.

Old markers tend to dry out and fray at the tip. If you continue using them in this condition, it leads to scratching on the dry-erase board's surface.

When ink is still drying, and you try and wipe it away, it usually smears. This then causes the ink to embed into the surface, specifically if you have a melamine whiteboard. When ink is embedded, you need to use more elbow grease and products to clean it, which can degrade the dry-erase board faster.

Instead of leaving ink on the dry-erase board when you're done for the day, snap a picture of it on your phone for safekeeping, and wipe it off with a microfiber cloth. This will avoid stains, so cleaning it will always be a breeze.

Using microfiber to clean dry erase boards

Whiteboards are often used regularly, but if you ever find it has been neglected, follow the tips in the blog post to get your dry-erase board back to its original, shiny self.

Invest in some Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths, some softer Microfiber Cloths, and isopropyl alcohol for cleaning your whiteboard. If you have larger surfaces, stubborn stains, or more dry-erase boards to clean, get our Microfiber Hand Trowel Tool and Microfiber Wall Wash Mop Pad to make your life much easier.

Written by

Em Rey

Content Contributor at

Microfiber Wholesale

Em has been writing content for over eight years, creating articles for lifestyle, home, and beauty publications.

She’s passionate about smart, effective cleaning and loves sharing practical tips that actually work, especially when it comes to microfiber products.

With a deep understanding of the cleaning industry, Em crafts content that connects with professionals and everyday cleaners alike.

Outside of work, you can find her trying out a new recipe, restaurant, or exploring the outdoors with her toddler in tow.

Deep Clean Hard Floors, Effortlessly.

Check Out The Pro Mop System

    • Featured Articles

    30 Little Details That Instantly Make a Space Feel Professionally Cleaned
    7 Things to Check Before Buying Sublimation Blanks in Bulk
    Cleaning Products Professionals Always Avoid (and What They Use Instead)
    FAQ’s

    Find answers to our most frequently asked questions.

    How To Videos

    Watch how to efficiently and effectively use your microfiber.

    Articles

    Articles and tech tips on how to best use and care for your microfiber.

    Interviews

    Learn the best microfiber cleaning techniques from practiced professionals.

    PROPERTY MARK THESE TOWELS?

    Promote your brand while protecting your towels from wandering off with our property marking service - an affordable and professional looking solution to keep your towels in service.

    Continue To Cart Continue To Customize

    By continuing with your order, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

    Our property-marked towels are printed with a repeating pattern, and logo placement may vary from towel to towel.

    You’ve chosen between receiving an emailed digital proof for a detailed review of your design at an additional cost of $20, or allowing our print team to use your uploaded file to prepare your order for printing.

    We do not accept returns for printed property marked towels.