The Best Dry Erase Markers

Buying Guide

While whiteboards are most commonly used in classrooms and in business offices to give important presentations, they can be used just about anywhere. You can place them in the kitchen to keep track of grocery items that need to be restocked or in the garage to keep your spouse apprised of the current to-do list. Of course, you’ll need a quality set of dry erase markers to go with your whiteboard.

Amy Markham, an artist, middle school art teacher and the host of a creativity podcast, says: “I recently replaced the chalkboard in my classroom with a whiteboard and love not having to use chalk anymore, although finding the best dry erase markers has been a challenge. Some are streaky, some are too transparent and some dry out too quickly.” It helps to know exactly what you’re looking for before you make a purchase.

Start off by verifying that the dry erase markers are non-toxic. One way to know for sure is to spot the Art & Creative Materials Institute, Inc.’s certification label. It will say “AP Certified.” You definitely don’t want to take a chance using markers that may contain toxic chemicals when working with children.

Next, examine the marker’s tip. You may want to go with a model that has a fine tip. Fine tips are a better choice if you need to be precise. There are also models that have a thick tip for wider coverage, as well as versions that allow you to write and draw with both a fine tip and a broad stroke.

Don’t forget to keep colors in mind when shopping for dry erase markers. “You can purchase these in color sets or individually. Most people want to have multiple colors so that they can differentiate points or color code ideas,” says Markham.

Finally, determine what extra features you’d like the dry erase markers to have. For example, some models have a handy visibility window that reveals when your ink is getting close to running out. Markham points out that “some brands have an eraser on the end of the marker.” She does go on to warn that the erasers “tend to fall off and are often more trouble than they are worth.”

• When it comes to price, keep in mind that you tend to get what you pay for. “The inexpensive dry erase markers tend to use cheap materials for the tips, which results in fraying that makes the marker less effective.  It is worth it to spend more for a stronger tip that will withstand repeated use,” says Markham.
• It is important to be careful while using dry erase markers, as the pigment in the ink will stain clothing.
• You can use dry erase markers on glass, plastic storage food containers, metal file drawers, plastic sheet covers and even the windshield of your automobile.
• If the tip of your dry erase marker dries out, you can revive it, so don’t toss it just yet. First, try turning the marker upside down with the cap on for a 24-hour period. If that doesn’t work, remove the felt tip and re-insert it with the moist side facing out.
• Never use a dry erase marker on a surface like paper or cardboard. This will damage the tip of the marker, resulting in the need for a replacement much sooner than if you stuck to using the marker on its intended surfaces.
• Use care when storing your dry erase markers. According to Markham, “Most brands will tell you to store them horizontally, although a few will tell you to store them vertically with the tip down. So, make sure to check what the brand of your choice suggests for storage. And, of course, make sure you hear the snap when you put the cap back on the marker. Keeping the cap on when not in use always adds to the lifespan of a marker.”
• When comparing prices, you must first divide the cost of the dry erase marker set by the number of markers in the set. Even though sets with 52 markers appears to cost more than models with less markers, their cost per marker may actually much cheaper. Don’t forget to take into consideration any special features. For example, some models command a higher price, thanks to their contoured shape that keeps them from rolling off your table.