15 Surfaces You’re Ruining by Using a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser!
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Industry experts estimate that the residential cleaning market will grow by 6.2% year-over-year from 2023 to 2030. According to Statistica, the U.S. household cleaning products market is worth $42 billion. Mr. Clean Magic Eraser has become a miracle tool during cleaning, used for everything from removing scuff marks on walls to cleaning grime off kitchen surfaces.
This wonder cleaning product can be very abrasive causing scratches, dull finishes, and even stripped coating when used on the wrong surfaces. This can result in expensive repairs potentially costing you far more than you had bargained for. Here are 15 surfaces you need to know about before you grab that eraser for every mess.
Glossy or Polished Surfaces
Magic Erasers have a micro-abrasive texture, and will dull any shiny surface on countertops, appliances, or furniture. The sponge material works by peeling off a thin layer of the surface, good for scuffs but bad for polished finishes.
Regular use on these surfaces results in uneven wear over time that can permanently dull their appearance, reducing the value of high-end glossy materials.
Stainless Steel
Magic Erasers can clean stainless steel, but they leave tiny scratches that otherwise ruin the smooth surface of the polished surface. Stainless steel appliances, a common choice of material for kitchens, can lose their coating and corrode at a faster rate.
To preserve the steel’s shiny finish, experts suggest non-abrasive cleaners and microfiber cloths. Using proper care ensures the clean finish lasts for decades.
Car Paint
It is tempting to use Magic Erasers on the cars to remove scuffs, but many times they leave micro scratches and dull spots on the paint. The eraser can easily damage the clear protective coat used in modern vehicle paint systems, which consist of multi-layer paint.
Auto care experts highlight that professional grade cleaning products are safer, and keep the integrity of the paint, which could cost thousands to repair if compromised.
Delicate Fabrics
Using a Magic Eraser can damage delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, or lace. These sponges are too rough for fine weaves and may even discolor dyed fabrics.
To avoid wear and tear, avoid washing delicate materials with harsh detergents or use spot treatments for textiles.
Screens (Phones, TVs, Laptops)
Glass anti-glare and oleophobic coatings are prone to damage by abrasive materials like Magic Erasers because they are delicate. Removing these coatings increases fingerprints and glare and shortens your screen’s lifespan.
Proper cleaning methods ensure the screen remains in good order considering the average smartphone costs around $800.
Unfinished Wood
Wood fibers can be removed with Magic Erasers leaving surfaces rough and ready to splinter. Unfinished wood can leave streaks or discoloration because it absorbs cleaners unevenly.
Instead, sandpaper or special wood cleaners are recommended.
Stone Countertops (Marble, Granite)
Stone countertops can have their sealant stripped away by Magic Erasers, leaving the surface susceptible to staining and etching. Marble and granite are porous stones, therefore, without the sealant they’ll absorb liquids which will leave permanent marks.
The average kitchen countertop replacement will set you back about $2,000–$4,000, so protecting them with gentle cleaners is a wise investment.
Car Interior Surfaces
Materials used in dashboard screens, trims, and upholstery are sensitive to abrasives. These surfaces do not respond well to a Magic Eraser, and you risk discoloration, scratches, and uneven finishes.
Use specialized cleaners and soft cloths to keep the interior of the vehicle looking good and functioning well—this adds to the vehicle’s value.
Flat or Matte Paint on walls
Magic Erasers are very harsh and can remove paint or leave a shiny spot on flat or matte paint finishes. The abrasive nature of the eraser changes the texture and makes noticeable inconsistencies.
Repainting a room can cost quite much, so painted surfaces can be best maintained with a soft sponge and mild cleaner.
High-Gloss Tile or Glass
Magic Erasers can scratch glossy tiles or glass on a micro level, reducing their reflective quality. This is especially bad in bathrooms and kitchens, where these materials tend to be used because they look sleek and modern.
The safer option is regular glass cleaners and soft cloths, ensuring the surface remains clear and polished.
Antique or Vintage Furniture
Magic erasers can remove layers of paint, lacquer, or patina, and that’s part of what gives your antique pieces their antique value. They can strip off decades of natural aging, diminishing value as well as beauty.
Experts advise that for cleaning and repairs of valuable pieces, a professional restorer is recommended to maintain historical integrity.
Copper or Brass
Magic Erasers will scratch soft, lacquered, or polished metals. Scratches ruin the appearance and make these surfaces more prone to tarnishing.
Copper and brass are common in kitchens and decorative accents and need proper care to keep their warmth and shine over time.
Acrylic or Plexiglass
These materials are often used to make windows, furniture, or aquariums and are very easily scratched. However, using a Magic Eraser leaves visible marks and cloudy areas that ruin the clarity.
It’s wise to protect the surface of acrylic from damage because acrylic can cost up to $150 per square foot for high-quality grades.
Leather
Over time, magic erasers remove natural oils from leather, leading to dryness and cracking. This is especially bad news for leather furniture and car interiors, which must be conditioned periodically to stay nice and supple.
Cleaning expert Martha Stewart advises that untreated leather will degrade far more quickly when harsh cleaning methods are used, shortening its lifespan by several years.
Non-Stick Cookware
Magic Erasers are abrasive and strip away the non-stick coating that prevents food from sticking. Cookware becomes less effective after damage and can release harmful chemicals, such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), when overheated.
Keeping these coatings intact can prolong the life and safety of the non-stick cookware.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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