Best Washable Marker Sets

Written by Michael Pollick

Updated December 2021

Of all the drawing mediums available to budding artists, markers hold a special appeal. Many of us remember working on oversized banners or murals with colorful sets of "magic markers" back in the day. However, many sets of markers had one major drawback: the ink or pigment they contained was considered permanent or unwashable. They would easily stain hands or clothing, and there were few remedies for removing those stains.

This is why many crayon and marker companies developed a new form of ink that is completely washable. The colors do not stain skin or most clothing fabrics. These washable marker sets still offer the same level of coverage and ease of use as traditional permanent markers, but without the risk of ruining the user's clothes or marring skin. In short, washable markers are ideal alternatives without sacrificing the quality of the finished project.

When shopping for washable marker sets, it pays to read the product label for any advisories on proper clean-up and stain removal. Some washable markers can still leave untreatable stains on certain types of fabric or surfaces, but they should not leave permanent stains on skin. Any artist should be able to complete his or her project with the fear of damaging anything in the process.