Whiteboard marker vs permanent marker: which one to buy

Markers look almost the same, but using the wrong one can ruin a whiteboard or leave a label that washes away. Offices, classrooms and warehouses in Qatar use many types. Here is how to choose.

Whiteboard markers

Whiteboard markers, also called dry-erase markers, are made for whiteboards and glass boards. The ink sits on top of the board, so you can wipe it off with a dry eraser.

• Use them on whiteboards, glass boards and some laminated sheets.
• Black and blue are easiest to read from far away. Red and green are good for highlighting.
• Do not use them on paper for anything you want to keep. They are not made for that.

Permanent markers

Permanent markers have ink that stays. They write on cardboard, plastic, metal, glass and many other surfaces.

• Good for boxes, files, storage labels, cables and stock in a warehouse.
• Never use them on a whiteboard by mistake.
• Keep them in a different place from whiteboard markers in meeting rooms and classrooms.

Paint markers

Paint markers put a thick, bright line on dark or shiny surfaces like metal, glass, tyres and wood. Workshops and shops use them for marking, and teachers and students use them for craft projects. Shake them well before use and test on a small area first.

Highlighters

Highlighters are for marking text on paper. Students use them for revision, and office staff use them on reports and invoices. Yellow is the most common, but a set of colours helps you sort different types of information.

Bullet tip or chisel tip?

• Bullet tip: round tip, even line. Good for normal writing.
• Chisel tip: flat, angled tip. Gives thin or thick lines. Good for headings and big letters.

Oops: permanent marker on the whiteboard

It happens in every office. Do not scrub hard. Try this:

1. Draw over the permanent marker with a whiteboard marker.
2. Wait a few seconds, then wipe with a dry eraser.
3. Repeat if needed, then clean the board with a whiteboard cleaner and a soft cloth.

This works in most cases. Do not use rough sponges, which scratch the board surface.

Make your markers last longer

• Always put the cap back on after use, until you hear a click.
• Store whiteboard markers lying flat.
• Keep them away from direct sun and hot cars.
• Clean your whiteboard regularly. Old ink makes a board look grey and hard to erase.

Buying a new board? Read our whiteboard buying guide. Also see ball pen or gel pen for everyday writing.

Order markers in Doha

Browse whiteboard markers, permanent markers, highlighters, whiteboard erasers and whiteboard cleaner, or everything under writing and marking.

Ordering for an office or school? Send your list on WhatsApp. Raifa Centre delivers across Qatar and accepts cash on delivery.