Permanent markers can be both a blessing and a curse. People use permanent markers to label clothing, address boxes and make signs. Sometimes, permanent marker ends up where it isn't wanted, like on the walls or on the leather couch. Oftentimes, this is done with the help of children. Fortunately, it isn't impossible to remove permanent marker stains.

In order to remove permanent marker stains from wood furniture or a leather couch, a melamine foam sponge, such as the Mr. Clean® Magic Eraser®, is needed. Cleaning products aren't necessary when using this sponge. Dampen it with warm water and rub the permanent marker stain in a circular motion. The sponge will break apart as it removes the stain. Allow the couch or furniture to air dry, then vacuum.

When left uncapped, on the floor, permanent marker ink may soak into the carpet. Rubbing alcohol or oil-free hairspray can remove permanent marker ink from the fibers. Saturate a clean cloth with the rubbing alcohol, or hairspray, and push it in to the stain. Repeat the process, using clean corners of the cloth, until it is removed. Rinse with clean water and soak up the excess with a dry towel.

To remove permanent marker stains on plastic, use nail polish remover. Soak a towel with the nail polish remover and scrub the permanent marker stain. It will take a lot of elbow grease to lift the stain from plastic. Wipe the plastic down with a water-soaked towel, then dry.

Remove permanent marker stains from wooden tables with a toothbrush and toothpaste. For the best results, use a whitening toothpaste. Put the toothpaste on the toothbrush and scrub the stain in a circular motion. Start on the inside of the stain and work outwards, using a firm circular motion. Allow the toothpaste to sit for at least five minutes, then rinse thoroughly.

It can be difficult to remove permanent marker from hard, white surfaces, such as countertops. It involves the use of bleach and a lot of arm muscle. Saturate the surface with a bleach and water solution in a ratio of 1 part bleach to 2 parts water. Allow the stain to soak for ten minutes or more. Vigorously scrub the stain until it is removed, then allow to air dry.

To remove permanent marker stains on clothing, try spraying with hairspray and allow it to sit overnight. Scrub the stain with a toothbrush and wash in the hottest water suitable for the fabric. Check for stains before drying and repeat if necessary. Once the fabric is dried, the stain is set.