Magic Erasers took the cleaning world by storm when they were introduced 20 years ago. They’ll remove sticker residue, soap scum, crayon marks and tons of other stuff from your household surfaces. No other cleaning product in recent memory has such a notable reputation, but they can’t be used on everything. Here are a few of the things you should never use a Magic Eraser to clean.
- • Stone countertops — especially granite and marble — often have a sealant that Magic Eraser’s tiny melamine threads can easily scratch, dulling sealants and finishes in the process. For a safer option, stick with warm water, dish soap and a soft cloth.
- • Nonstick pots and pans are no match for the microscopic, razor-fine abrasive melamine resin on Magic Erasers. Teflon will chip off if you use a Magic Eraser on it and can leave “forever chemicals” on your cookware that could end up in your food. Instead, use water and dish soap on a soft sponge to clean nonstick cookware.
- • Stainless steel appliances are another thing that should never see a Magic Eraser. That’s because it will scratch the surface, dulling it in the process. When cleaning stainless steel, use a stainless steel cleaner or simply baking soda and water.
- • Vehicle paint is another no-no when it comes to Magic Erasers. They will create even more problems if you try to use them to buff out scuffs and scrapes. Simply use soapy water to wash the car and then car wax or polish to buff out minor scuffs and scrapes.
- • Glossy paint finishes will also not come out well if you use a Magic Eraser. It can scratch the surface and make it dull. Weekly dusting will help, but you can also use mild dish soap and water solution to clean up dirt on high-gloss painted walls.
- • Never, ever use a Magic Eraser on varnished wood surfaces or furniture as it can easily scuff and dull when subjected to the resin in Magic Eraser. Instead, use a wood-safe cleaner or dish soap and water.
- • Collectibles and jewelry can be damaged by cleaning with Magic Eraser. Instead, use gentle jewelry cleaners and a soft microfiber cloth.
- • Computer, television, phone and tablet screens should never be cleaned with a Magic Eraser. They make look like plain glass or plastic, but these highly specialized screens have anti-glare coatings, all of which a Magic Eraser can permanently damage. Confine your cleaning methods to a damp microfiber cloth and invest in a screen protector.
- • Do we really have to say this? DO NOT clean your skin or your teeth with Magic Eraser. It can cause painful abrasions on your skin and damage the enamel on your teeth. Take a shower and brush your teeth, period.
