The Mr Clean Magic Eraser has earned its reputation as a household hero, effortlessly erasing grime and stains. But don’t be fooled by its gentle appearance. Behind its soft exterior lies an abrasive force that can wreak havoc on certain surfaces.
While it may seem like a quick fix for every cleaning challenge, this seemingly innocent cleaning tool could damage countless items in your home. Let’s uncover a few things you should never clean with a Magic Eraser.
Polished, Finished, and Painted Surfaces
Magic Erasers are highly abrasive, making them unsuitable for delicate surfaces. Their rough texture can easily scratch or remove the protective finish on furniture, cabinets, and walls. This can ruin the appearance of your belongings and require costly repairs. Instead, opt for gentle cleaning methods using microfiber cloths and mild cleaners specifically designed for these surfaces.
Electronic Devices
Electronic devices’ screens and casings, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, have sensitive coatings. Applying a Magic Eraser to these surfaces can lead to permanent scratches, impair their functionality, and degrade the display quality. To clean your electronic devices safely, use a microfiber cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Avoid excessive pressure to prevent damage.
Non-Stick Cookware
The non-stick coating on cookware is essential for easy cooking and cleaning. However, it’s delicate and can be easily scratched by abrasive materials like Magic Erasers. This can cause food to stick, making it difficult to clean and potentially releasing harmful particles into your food. To preserve the non-stick qualities of your cookware, clean it with a few drops of soap, warm water, and a soft sponge.
Chrome and Stainless Steel Surfaces
Chrome and stainless steel surfaces are prone to scratches, and a Magic Eraser can easily leave unsightly marks. While it may seem effective at removing dirt, it can also dull the finish and compromise the overall appearance of your appliances and fixtures. To maintain them, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
Antique and Vintage Items
Antique and vintage items often have delicate finishes, patinas, and unique characteristics. Using a Magic Eraser on these items can damage the surface, causing irreversible damage and reducing their overall value. To clean antique and vintage items, consult a professional or use gentle cleaning methods recommended for the specific material.
Wooden Furniture
The abrasive melamine in the Magic Eraser can easily scratch wooden furniture, especially with delicate finishes like lacquer or varnish. Using it on wooden furniture can ruin its appearance and diminish its value. Clean and protect your wooden furniture using a wood cleaner and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to moisture and direct sunlight.
Glassware
Glassware is prone to scratches. Using a Magic Eraser on glass can leave marks and scratches. For sparkling glassware, use a mild cleaner and a regular sponge.
Leather Goods
Leather goods like bags, jackets, car seats, and wallets require special care to maintain quality and appearance. The melamine foam in magic cleaners causes leather to lose its luster. To clean and protect your leather goods, use a leather conditioner along with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing leather to excessive heat, moisture, and sunlight.
Computer / Television Screens
Computer and television screens have delicate coatings that protect them from scratches and fingerprints. Using a Magic Eraser on a computer screen can damage this coating, reducing image quality and potential eye strain. A microfiber cloth slightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol can be used to clean the screens. Avoid excessive pressure and circular motions.
Jewelry
Jewelry is often made from delicate materials that can be easily scratched or damaged. Using any abrasive material like a magic eraser on jewelry can ruin its appearance and reduce its value. To clean jewelry, use jewelry cleaning solutions and soft cloths specifically designed for jewelry care.
Delicate Fabrics
Magic Erasers are a no-go for delicate fabrics and upholstery. The abrasive nature of the sponge can irreparably damage delicate fibers like silk, velvet, and leather. Use gentle cleaning methods to preserve their texture, color, and overall appearance.
Car Paint
Mr Clean’s magic eraser can cause significant damage to your car paint. When wet, a Magic Eraser can have the abrasive power of 3000 to 5000 grit sandpaper, depending on the scrubbing pressure. This roughness can cause severe scratches to delicate surfaces like car paint.
Granite or Marble
Non-porous surfaces like granite and marble countertops are resistant to stains but can still be scratched by abrasive materials. Applying a Magic Eraser to these surfaces can cause tiny scratches that dull the finish and make the surface more prone to staining. To clean non-porous surfaces, use a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth.
Skin
Although Magic Erasers are great for cleaning surfaces, they are not intended for use on skin. The texture can irritate and damage the skin, leading to redness, dryness, and potential skin infections. Use a gentle soap and water or a lightweight, fragrance-free cleanser to clean your face, hands, and body.