It is a frustrating experience to reach for your favorite marker only to discover that it has dried out. Throwing it away and buying a new one is not the only option for you. There are some easy ways to revive the dried markers, making them good as new.
Tip 1: Use Rubbing Alcohol
If your marker has run out of ink but has not dried out completely, you can try reviving it by using rubbing alcohol. All you need to do is remove the back of the marker and soak the nib and ink cartridge in rubbing alcohol for up to 20 minutes. Once it’s done, remove it and replace the back of the marker and try again.
Tip 2: Add Some Water to the Marker
For markers that have dried out due to the loss of moisture, water can be used to revive the pen. Remove the back of the marker and add a few drops of distilled water directly into the ink cartridge. After adding the water, close the ink cartridge tightly and shake the marker properly. Wait for a few minutes to let the water get absorbed by the ink inside the marker.
Tip 3: Use Vinegar to Bring a Marker Back to Life
If your marker has been dried out for a prolonged period of time, use of vinegar may be helpful, given its acidic properties. Add a few drops of white vinegar to the ink cartridge while being careful not to overdo it. You’ll then need to leave it for a few minutes before closing the ink cartridge and shaking it vigorously.
Tip 4: Get Creative with Ink Refills
If the ink inside a marker is completely dry and none of the above options work, don’t give up hope creating ink refills is always a good back up option. You can use permanent ink refills that are free of toxic chemicals to bring your marker back to life. Inject the refill ink into the marker’s ink cartridge and wait for it to get absorbed properly.
Tip 5: Store Markers Carefully
The best way to prevent markers from drying out is to store them properly. Always make sure you store them in an airtight container away from any direct sunlight and high temperature areas. By keeping markers away from such unfavorable conditions, you can significantly reduce their chances of drying out.
