Frugal Magic Erasers

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

16 May 2008 11:28 AM

Don't you just love it when a miracle cleaning product comes along? I remember being skeptical about the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser until I actually tried it. The thing seems to be a miracle worker when it comes to crayon marks, scuffs and layers of grime that have built up over time.

Before I start sounding too much like a commercial for this product, let me point out one huge drawback to the magic eraser. That is the price. At $2.50 for 2 magic erasers, the price is pretty steep, especially when you consider that they don't last very long. They have been a wonder when I started cleaning my old kitchen cabinets, but one eraser lasted only for about 2 cabinets and their frames. At that rate, I will need at least nine erasers at a cost of $18! While the cost might be worth it if it can save a paint job or clean up a piece of furniture that might otherwise be tossed, there has got to be a more frugal way. Here are some of my ideas. I would love to hear yours.

Try a different eraser

Before the magic erasers came along, the old trick to removing scuff marks or grime was the art gum eraser. You can find them in any art supply or craft store. They are relatively inexpensive and generate no more crumbs than does the magic eraser.

Tennis anyone?

Tennis balls are wonderful at removing scuff marks from hardwood floors and linoleum floors. Don't buy new tennis balls for this. Use ones that have lost their bounce. If you don't play tennis, get some free from a neighbor, your local tennis court or even the thrift store.

Shave away the stains

Shaving cream is a great way to remove crayon marks and marker marks. It works best on non-porous services, such as plastic tables, vinyl floors, etc. It will work on walls as well, especially those that have a gloss or semi-gloss finish. I wonder if the shaving cream would stain a flat wall. I haven't tried it. Does anyone know?

What is your favorite frugal way to clean?

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Frugal Dishwasher Cleaner

Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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