Avoid Ruining Surfaces: Difference Between Dry Erase and Permanent Markers

Choosing the right marker matters more than you might think. Whether you’re writing on a whiteboard or labelling items, knowing the difference between dry erase markers and permanent markers helps avoid mistakes. This article outlines key differences in usage, erase ability, and surface compatibility to help you pick the best option.

Key Tips for Choosing Your Marker

• Use a dry erase marker only on non-porous surfaces like whiteboards and glass.
• Avoid using dry markers on paper or wood—the ink will soak in and not erase.
• Choose a permanent marker for labelling plastic, metal, or cardboard.
• Look for low-odour or non-toxic labels if using markers around children.
• Use isopropyl alcohol to clean ghosting on worn plastic or laminated surfaces.
• Whiteboard markers contain solvents and polymers that allow for easy removal.
• Match your marker to the surface material to avoid damage or staining.

Surface Type	Recommended Marker	Ease to Erase
Whiteboard	Dry erase marker	Very easy
Paper	Permanent marker	Not erasable
Plastic folder	Dry erase marker	Moderate, may ghost
Cardboard box	Permanent marker	Not erasable
Glass	Dry erase marker	Easy

Teacher brainstorming with colorful markers on whiteboard.

When to Use Dry Erase Markers

Dry erase markers are your best mates when it comes to writing on a dry erase board or whiteboard. They’re made for smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass, plastic, and metal. The ink in a dry erase marker is designed to stick without soaking in, which means it can be wiped off quickly without leaving a trace.

Need to brainstorm ideas or lead a meeting? Use dry erase markers on whiteboards for clean, temporary notes. Teachers and office workers swear by them for good reason—they’re easy to read, easy to erase, and ideal for quick edits. Just make sure not to use them on paper, wood, or other porous materials, or you’ll have an art project instead of notes.

Dry erase ink contains a solvent, pigment, and a polymer that help it dry quickly on non-porous surfaces. If you’re wondering what type of marker to use for whiteboards, this one’s it—simple, safe, and designed to wipe away with a swipe of an eraser or even your sleeve.

Permanent vs. Dry Markers Explained

Here’s where things get interesting. A permanent marker lives up to its name. Its ink is made to stick and stay—great for labelling boxes, writing on plastic or metal, and anything where you don’t want your notes vanishing. The ink in a permanent marker contains pigments, solvents like xylene or ethanol, and adhesive polymers that penetrate surfaces, even porous ones like paper or wood.

A dry erase marker, by contrast, uses ink that sits on the surface and doesn’t bond permanently. That’s why it’s perfect for whiteboards and non-porous materials. It uses silicone or similar compounds to make it slippery enough to erase. The key difference lies in the chemical makeup—permanent ink is all about staying power, while dry erase ink is designed for evaporation and easy removal.

Choosing between a permanent marker and a dry erase marker depends on your surface and your goals. Need something that sticks around? Go permanent. Want to erase it later without breaking out the isopropyl alcohol? Dry erase wins. For more about marker pens and where to use them, Viking Direct has a good range to explore.

Dry Marker Safety on Kids’ Items

Using a dry erase marker on children’s items might seem harmless—until someone wipes it on their shirt. While dry erase markers are non-toxic in most brands, they’re still not made for young children’s hands or mouths. The ink can contain solvents that, while safe for brief exposure, aren’t great when smeared across fingers, toys, or lunchboxes.

Many parents and teachers wonder if dry markers can be used on laminated charts, plastic folders, or toy surfaces. The answer: yes, with care. Always check for labelling that states “low-odour” or “AP certified non-toxic.” Avoid using any type of marker, especially permanent ones, on items that go near mouths or food. For safer alternatives, consider washable marker pens when marking kids’ items.

There’s also the matter of how well they erase. On slick surfaces, dry markers work well and clean up easily. On slightly textured or worn plastics, ghosting can occur. A dab of isopropyl alcohol helps, but always test first. Dry markers are handy, but not foolproof. They’re fine for charts and desks—just don’t hand them to a toddler unsupervised.

Conclusion

Choosing between a dry erase marker and a permanent marker comes down to how and where you plan to use it. For temporary notes on whiteboards or glass, dry markers erase cleanly. For lasting labels or marks, permanent markers are your go-to option.

At Viking, we understand that the right tools make a real difference in productivity and efficiency. Whether you’re outfitting a classroom, home office or workplace, our selection of markers is designed to support your needs—practical, reliable, and mindful of your workspace goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a permanent marker on a whiteboard?

No, a permanent marker is not suitable for a whiteboard. Its ink contains strong solvents and polymers that bond to the surface, making it difficult to erase. Always use a dry erase marker for whiteboards, as it contains ink designed to sit on the non-porous surface and wipe off easily.

What makes dry erase markers erasable?

Dry erase markers use a solvent-based ink with silicone or similar compounds that prevent it from bonding permanently to non-porous surfaces like glass or plastic. The pigment stays on the surface, allowing it to be wiped away with an eraser or cloth. The ink evaporates quickly, reducing smudging and residue.

Are dry erase markers safe on paper or wood?

Dry erase markers are not ideal for paper or wood. These porous surfaces absorb the ink, making it difficult to erase and causing potential staining. For writing on such materials, a permanent marker or other marker pen designed for porous surfaces offers better results and readability without smearing.

Do marker inks contain toxic substances like xylene?

Some permanent marker inks may contain chemical substances like xylene or ethanol, which are effective solvents but can raise concerns about toxicity. Many modern markers, especially dry erase markers, are now made with low-odour and xylene-free formulas, but it’s still important to check the label before use, especially in enclosed spaces.