Kids love to express their creativity, but sometimes that artistic flair ends up on your walls instead of paper. If you’ve discovered a colorful crayon masterpiece where it shouldn’t be, don’t panic! Dish soap—yes, the same one you use for dishes—can be a powerful tool for cleaning crayon off walls.
But does it work on all surfaces? We put it to the test on 10 different wall types to find out the best method for removing crayon without damaging your paint or wallpaper.
Why Dish Soap Works on Crayon Marks
Crayons are made of wax and pigment, which can stick stubbornly to walls. Dish soap is designed to cut through grease and oils, making it effective at breaking down wax. When combined with warm water and a little scrubbing, it can lift crayon marks without harsh chemicals.
Our Testing Process
We tested a simple dish soap and water solution on:
- Flat latex paint (matte)
- Semi-gloss paint
- Gloss paint
- Eggshell paint
- Textured drywall
- Wallpaper (vinyl-coated)
- Wood paneling
- Painted brick
- Concrete walls
- Whiteboard walls
Tools Used:
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap (like Dawn or Palmolive)
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Soft-bristle toothbrush (for textured surfaces)
- Dry towel
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Crayon
1. Mix the Cleaning Solution
- 1 cup warm water + 1 tsp dish soap
- Stir gently to avoid suds (too many bubbles can make rinsing harder).
2. Test in an Inconspicuous Spot
Before scrubbing the entire wall, test the solution on a small area to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
3. Gently Scrub the Crayon Marks
- Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the solution and blot (don’t rub aggressively) the crayon marks.
- For textured walls (like popcorn or brick), use a soft toothbrush to work the soap into crevices.
- On glossy or delicate surfaces (wallpaper, whiteboard), lightly dab to avoid peeling or streaking.
4. Wipe with a Damp Cloth
- Once the crayon lifts, wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove soap residue.
5. Dry the Wall
- Pat dry with a towel to prevent water spots.
Results: What Worked (and What Didn’t)
| Surface Type | Effectiveness | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flat latex paint | ★★★★★ (5/5) | Came off easily with light scrubbing. |
| Semi-gloss paint | ★★★★★ (5/5) | Wiped clean with minimal effort. |
| Gloss paint | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | Needed slightly more scrubbing. |
| Eggshell paint | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | Worked well but required gentle pressure. |
| Textured drywall | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) | Toothbrush helped, but some pigment lingered. |
| Vinyl wallpaper | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) | Effective but risked dulling the finish. |
| Wood paneling | ★★☆☆☆ (2/5) | Could strip wax finish—use cautiously. |
| Painted brick | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) | Needed extra scrubbing in grooves. |
| Concrete walls | ★★★★☆ (4/5) | Surprisingly effective! |
| Whiteboard walls | ★★☆☆☆ (2/5) | Risked staining—better to use alcohol. |
Key Takeaways:
✔ Best for: Painted walls (flat, semi-gloss, eggshell).
✔ Works but needs care: Textured surfaces, vinyl wallpaper.
✖ Not ideal: Unsealed wood, whiteboard surfaces.
Bonus Tips for Stubborn Crayon Marks
- Baking soda paste (for tougher stains): Mix baking soda + water into a paste, gently scrub, then wipe.
- Magic Eraser (Melamine sponge): Works well but can dull paint if overused.
- Hair dryer trick: Soften wax with warm air, then wipe with a soapy cloth.
Final Verdict: Dish Soap is a Winner!
For most painted walls, dish soap and water is a safe, effective, and affordable solution for crayon cleanup. Just remember:
- Be gentle to avoid damaging paint.
- Test first on hidden spots.
- Avoid abrasive tools like steel wool or harsh brushes.
Next time your little Picasso gets creative on the walls, grab the dish soap and tackle those crayon marks with confidence!
