How To Fix Dried Out Markers Like Sharpies - Science Notes

Permanent markers like Sharpies are excellent tools for labeling and artwork, but they dry out quickly if left uncapped or used frequently. While dipping a water-based marker in water can revive it, this won’t work for permanent ink because it contains organic solvents instead of water. Fortunately, you can rescue a dried out permanent marker using a simple chemistry-based method.

Key Takeaways

• Permanent markers dry out because their solvent evaporates.
• Water won’t work to fix permanent markers—use rubbing alcohol instead.
• There are two methods: a quick emergency fix and a longer-lasting restoration.

Why Permanent Markers Dry Out

Permanent ink consists of pigments or dyes suspended in organic solvents like alcohols or ketones. These solvents have high vapor pressures, which means they evaporate quickly—especially if the marker is left uncapped. Once the solvent evaporates, the ink no longer flows properly.

Permanent Marker Rescue Materials

To fix a dried-out permanent marker, you’ll need:

• Dried out permanent marker (e.g., Sharpie)
• Rubbing alcohol (91%, 95%, or 99% concentration)

Tip: You can use isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, or a blend. Avoid 70% rubbing alcohol—it contains too much water and won’t work well. Acetone or xylene also work, but they’re more hazardous to breathe and use indoors.

Method 1: Emergency Dried Out Marker Fix

If you’re in a rush, this method revives the tip long enough to finish a task:

1. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol into a cap or container.
2. Soak the tip of the marker in the alcohol for 15–30 seconds.
3. Wipe off the tip and test the marker.

Note: The ink may look runny or light at first. It should return to normal within a few strokes.

Method 2: Fix a Dried Out Marker Long-Term

To restore a marker to near-original condition:

1. Open the Marker: Use pliers to pull the marker open carefully. Most come apart at the seam.
2. Find the Ink Pad: Inside the longer section, you’ll see a sponge-like ink pad connected to the pen nib.
3. Add Solvent: Drop rubbing alcohol onto the ink pad (opposite side of the writing tip) until it’s saturated.
4. Reassemble: Push the marker back together and cap it.
5. Wait a Few Minutes: Let the solvent soak through the tip before using.

Optional: Shake the marker gently to help the alcohol move through the pad, although it usually isn’t necessary.

The marker will be good as new. Just remember to put the cap back on when it’s not in use so you don’t have to fix it again!

Cleaning Up Permanent Ink Stains

Accidentally get permanent ink on your skin or a surface? Rubbing alcohol removes it. Other effective options include:

• Acetone (nail polish remover) – effective but harsh on plastics and fabrics.
• Dry erase markers – contain solvents that can dissolve permanent ink.

Always test on a small area first, especially on delicate materials.

Safety Tips

• Work in a well-ventilated area.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to solvent vapors.
• Keep rubbing alcohol away from open flames.

References

• “Faqs | Sharpie”. www.sharpie.com
• Ink composition resistant to solvent evaporation — US Patent 7084191 Description.

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