How To Get Sharpie Off Of Concrete

Sharpie markers are easy to use, but they mark up your concrete sidewalk or driveway. The concrete has a porous surface, allowing the ink to seep into the tiny crevices. Washing the surface with water does not remove the ink since it requires a cleaner that pulls it to the surface. A product such as turpentine lifts the ink, allowing it to be scrubbed away from the concrete.

Step 1

Sweep the Sharpie stain-marked area of the concrete with a broom to remove dirt and debris.

Step 2

Drench the Sharpie ink stains with 1 to 2 cups of turpentine, depending on the size of the stains. Allow the turpentine one hour to sink into the concrete and dissolve the ink.

Step 3

Pour one to two buckets of water over the stains to rinse the turpentine from the concrete.

Step 4

Fill the bucket with warm water and 1 tsp. of liquid dish soap. Pour the soapy water over the remaining Sharpie stains. Scrub the stains with a stiff-bristle brush or shop broom. After scrubbing, rinse the area with a garden hose.