Washable markers are a game-changer for families, educators, and creative individuals. Not only are they vibrant and easy to use, but they also minimise messes with their quick-clean properties. However, just like any tool, proper care is essential to keep them in excellent working condition. Here are some practical tips for maintaining your markers and extending their lifespan.
1. Store Markers Properly
The way you store your markers can significantly affect their longevity. Here are some storage hacks to ensure they’re always ready to use:
Cap Them Tight: Always ensure the caps are securely fastened after use. An improperly capped marker can dry out within hours.
Horizontal Storage: Store markers horizontally to evenly distribute the ink. This prevents one end from drying out faster than the other.
Temperature Matters: Keep markers away from direct sunlight or heat sources to avoid ink drying out or warping the plastic casing. A cool, dry place is ideal.
2. Clean the Tips
Over time, marker tips can pick up dirt, dried ink, or paper fibers, which can impact their performance. Regular cleaning can help maintain their vibrant output:
Damp Cloth Wipe: Gently dab the marker tip with a damp cloth to remove any debris or dried residue.
Rinse When Needed: For washable markers, you can briefly rinse the tips under lukewarm water if they’ve dried out slightly. Dab the tip with a paper towel and let it rest horizontally until the ink flows smoothly again.
Avoid Excess Pressure: Heavy pressure during use can cause the tip to fray. Encourage kids to use gentle strokes to keep the tips intact.
3. Revive Dried-Out Markers
Sometimes, even the most careful storage practices can’t prevent markers from drying out. Here’s how you can bring them back to life:
Water Dipping: Dip the tip of the dried marker into a small cup of water for a few seconds, then blot it with a paper towel. Repeat until the ink flows again.
Cap and Wait: After dipping, securely cap the marker and lay it flat for a few hours to let the ink redistribute.
Hydration Hack: For markers that seem beyond repair, inject a few drops of water directly into the barrel using a syringe. This can rejuvenate the ink and extend its usability.
4. Teach Gentle Handling
Markers are designed for creative expression, but rough handling can shorten their lifespan. Teaching children a few simple habits can go a long way:
No Smashing: Avoid pressing too hard or smashing the tips onto surfaces.
Use on Approved Surfaces: Encourage kids to use markers on smooth paper, reusable colouring cloths, or appropriate colouring surfaces to reduce tip wear and tear.
Close Caps Promptly: Instil a habit of capping markers immediately after use to prevent unnecessary drying.
5. Organise for Accessibility
Disorganisation can lead to lost caps or misplaced markers, both of which spell trouble for their lifespan. An organised setup can prevent this:
Marker Holders: Use the cardboard tube the markers came in or one of our pencil-pencil cases to keep them tidy and easy to access.
Colour Coding: Arrange markers by colour to make finding the right shade a breeze and minimise rummaging.
Label Ownership: If multiple kids share markers, consider labelling them to encourage responsibility and prevent misplacement.
6. Replace When Necessary
Even with the best care, markers won’t last forever. Knowing when to replace them is key to maintaining a seamless creative experience. If a marker’s tip is completely frayed or the ink output is consistently weak despite rejuvenation efforts, it’s time to retire it.
With proper care and a few simple maintenance habits, your super washable markers can stay vibrant and functional for much longer. Whether it’s through careful storage, regular cleaning, or teaching gentle handling, these tips will help you get the most out of your markers. Not only will this save you money, but it also supports sustainable practices by reducing waste.
Happy colouring!