If you have used a 'magic eraser' before around your home, then you must know just how effective they can be at removing dirt, stains, burnt-on grime, food splatters, and all manner of tough messes on all kinds of surfaces. But, if you haven't - don't worry, we're totally not judging that you live under a rock.
If you have come across these magic erasers, have you ever taken the time to consider just how to use the magic eraser? Just how do these amazing sponges work? Overall, a better understanding of how the magic erasers work will help you best know how to use them to make the most of your purchase.
How Does A Clean Magic Eraser Work?
The Magic eraser sponge is made from melamine foam. Interestingly, this foam was first used to make sound-proofing and insulation material, and it wasn't until decades after when it was discovered to be just as effective in cleaning and removing dirt, scuffs and stains.
More specifically, the melamine foam has particles that have an extremely strong microstructure. As a result, the foam is quite abrasive, so using it to scrub a surface is like using super fine sandpaper to remove dirt, grime, stains, and so more. What makes it even better is once the stain has been removed from the surface, then the melamine foam absorbs that debris.
There were some unfounded health risk concerns regarding the use of clean magic erasers a while back because there was an incorrect report that they actually contained Formaldehyde. But just to be clear, the ingredient that's found in magic erasers is known as formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite.
It may contain the word 'formaldehyde,' but it is important to note that this is not an ingredient on its own, therefore completely different. Therefore, there are no associated health risks with using a magic eraser. In fact, the ingredients used to make magic eraser products are fully non-toxic.
What Are Clean Magic Erasers Made Of?
Magic Erasers are made from a compound that is known as formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer. Besides being a great cleaning tool, it's also an excellent stain remover for the otherwise 'uncleanable' stains. The melamine foam also has a variety of other applications that include:
- Sound insulation - it improves acoustics and lessens external noises
- Temperature insulation - used to protect items against hot or cold temperatures
The melamine foam is made up of a mix of hard and soft structures that include hydrogen, carbon and nitrogen. These combine to combat the stains without actually destroying the surface underneath.
The melamine foam has been in existence since the late 20th century, most notably manufactured by BASF of Germany under the Basotect. However, it was in the early 21st century that it was discovered to be an effective cleaning tool.
How To Properly Use A Magic Eraser?
Magic erasers are not only safe but extremely efficient and easy to use. For maximum efficiency, you need to slightly wet the sponge to activate the melamine foam.
From then on, you can scrub away on whatever surface you want to clean. It's most efficient to scrub in small, circular motions for the best results. Once you're done using it, you can squeeze out the excess water to dry it.
Where To Best Use A Magic Eraser?
It's a great idea to get a whole bulk online for a good stock of magic erasers around the house, especially if you consider just how many different uses you can get from them. Most people will use magic erasers to easily remove and get rid of the scuffs on their walls or the bathroom scum, but there are so many other ways in which these cleaners can come in handy. These include:
1. Cleaning Adhesive/Label Residue from Stickers
You only need to apply light pressure while you rub the sticky residue with a moist Magic Eraser sponge, and you can say bye-bye to the goo.
2. Remove Dirt On Clothes
If you have some ketchup or grease on your clothes, using this is one way of cleaning. Don't try to rub it off; just blot out the clothe stain with a damp Magic Eraser to remove it for good after you rinse it clean.
3. Freshen Up Those White Sneakers
You just have to love the look white kicks help you achieve, but this comes at a cost, keeping them white. If you're constantly scuffing them up, fret not sneakerheads; cleaning them using a damp clean Magic Eraser will remove scuff marks you may have and everything from grass stains in a matter of seconds.
4. Remove Mug Coffee/Tea Stains
The chances are that your favorite mug is clad in tons of tea/coffee stains. Fortunately for you, these stubborn stains can be dealt with by hand and nothing more than a damp Magic Eraser. Scrub it off and rinse it out with soap and water right after.
5. Deep Clean A Dry Erase Board/ Clean Permanent Marker
Nothing looks worse than a dirty dry erase board that's covered in marker stains. You can get your dry erase board looking like all brandy new in seconds by just using a little rubbing alcohol, water, and a Magic Erase. You can also remove the permanent marker from your whiteboard.
6. Remove Nail Polish Marks
Remember that gunky stain on your carpet from that spilled nail polish bottle. Don't worry; this is nothing a wet Magic Eraser can't handle with a nifty little scrub.
7. Get Rid Of Pet Marks
As a pet owner, you probably already gave up on clearing those marks your pet has made all over the house. All those streaks from those little wet noses on your windows and doors. They might be so endearing, but they can also be a little unsightly- nothing your damp Magic Eraser cannot fix within a matter of seconds.
8. Clean Your Cellphone Screen And Case
You don't have to stay stuck with a cellphone that's covered in scuffs and scratches. All you need is nothing more than a quick wipe using a slightly wet Magic Eraser to fix! That.
9. Clean Your Laptop
Yes, you can also decrease your laptop using Magic Erasers. You can carefully wipe the trackpad and keyboard of your laptop using a slightly wet eraser just to spruce things up.
10. Clean The Shower Curtain
Vinyl shower curtains have a tendency of discoloring with time, so instead of throwing it out when it's covered in soap scum or mold and mildew, try to use the magic eraser in scrubbing it lightly. Using a damp Magic Eraser will help you clean it and switch it up in a few minutes.
11. Clean And Polish Jewelry
If you're looking for a way cleaning that gold or silver jewelry, to freshen up its look, without having to take it to the cleaners. Just grab a moist Magic Eraser. Carefully and delicately scrub on it until it shines. Other than silver jewelry, this also applies to silver utensils.
12. Remove The Build-up On Hair Tools
Let's face it, your flat irons curling irons will always garner up some build-up and grime and they'll need cleaning from time to time. All that accumulated gunk on your styling products can be cleaned up pretty fast using a damp Magic Eraser. Just wipe it down using a wet towel after.
13. Freshen Up Leather
Yes, a damp Magic Eraser can remove everything from those black scuff marks, food stains, pen marks, etc., on your leather shoes, sofa, luggage, and any other leather accessories.
14. Clean The Microwave
No matter how filthy your microwave may have gotten, there's still hope- we guarantee you. You won't even need harsh chemicals for this. All thank gunk is still no match for a good old wipe-down cleaning using your wet Magic Eraser sponge.
15. Spot Clean Walls
Magic Erasers also come in handy when you have a fingerprint smudge, marker, or crayon marks situation on your walls. Just dampen your Magic Eraser, which will act as your wall cleaner. You can use a small piece on your wall cleaner to gently scrub off the stained spots to freshen the look on your walls.
16. Clean Your Bathroom
If your bathroom contains a fiberglass shower or tub, then you've probably struggled to find a product that will effectively remove dirt and grime from your floors. You can use a magic eraser to remove stains from all kinds of surfaces. It will also be great for cleaning glass and fiberglass shower doors.
Others Ways To Use Magic Erasers
- Remove crayon marks, marker, or pen marks off high touch areas such as light switches or furniture
- Clean those notoriously hard-to-clean shower floors made from fiberglass
- Remove any spray paint
- Remove that stubborn ring on your kitchen sink or bathtub
- Remove soap scum from the shower or glass door, or tile grout
- Clean grease on your stovetop
- Remove kool-aid stains from the countertop, be careful since scrubbing too hard might remove the sealant
- Cleaning microfiber chairs and couches
- Clean plastic, glass and metal patio furniture; other than plastic, you can use it on any hard surfaces
- Cleaning the car interior, exterior, wheels, or any paint scratches
- Cleaning RV's and boats, both inside and outside
Are Magic Erasers Safe?
Yes, it's quite hard to find a cleaning product that can remove scuff marks and clean so well without using chemicals. This cleaning scrubber is completely free from any harsh chemicals. However, if you're still worried about your safety and that of your family, here are a few facts about this melamine foam sponge to help put you more at ease:
- The ingredients that are used to manufacture the Magic Eraser have been commonly used and safely accepted as fit for use in a wide range of household items for many years now and are still considered as non-toxic
- No ingredients used are subject to any health-related risks by any laws in either North America or anywhere in Europe
- Magic Eraser does not contain Formaldehyde, and it's really never been an ingredient
- One of the ingredients in the Magic Eraser that a lot of people get confused about is the Formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer since it contains the word 'formaldehyde' in the chemical name. However, these ingredients are not at all the same, and it doesn't pose any health or safety risk
When To Not Use A Magic Eraser?
Magic erasers have worked wonderfully to clean different items, such as paint and surfaces, including on plastic but if you're ever unsure on whether to use your Magic Eraser on a particular surface, then do a quick spot test before cleaning the entire place. The spot test idea is the safest way to help you determine this.
Overall, it's a remarkable way of cleaning so many types of messes in your home, especially in the kitchen or bathroom. However, try not to use it on those high-gloss surfaces since its level of abrasion could permanently dull the luster on its finish. It's a great cleaning method, but here's where not to use these cleaners :
a) Enameled, shiny painted, varnished or sealed surfaces since the Magic Eraser could strip away its lustrous finish
b) Wooden items since Magic Erasers might scratch and strip away the finish
c) Car since you can damage the paint job of your car
d) Surfaces with natural stone, these include granite or marble, since this cleaner might damage its sealant and make the countertop appear dull and lifeless
e) Non-stick pans and pots since the Magic Eraser could scratch the surface and coating and cause it to get into your food
f) Stainless steel appliances, just like natural stone, Magic Eraser will make it appear dull
g) The Magic Eraser will quickly scratch and ruin your screen, so don't test it
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Use Magic Eraser
1. Will the Magic Eraser damage my bathtub?
General, having an acrylic tub requires that you use a non-abrasive cleaner such as Clorox wipes, dish soap, or a simple mix of vinegar and water. Bleach and abrasive cleaners such as the steel wool will just ruin your tub. However, the Magic Eraser is also a safe option if you're going to be gentle while scrubbing.
2. Should you use the magic eraser inside the toilet bowl?
Yes. Magic Erasers are a remarkable way to remove that unsightly ring that's in your toilet bowl. Just get a small piece of the Magic Eraser and leave it in your toilet until it has dissolved to create a great cleanser and conveniently do all the work in cleaning.
