How do you make a highlighter eraser?

Making your own highlighter eraser is an easy DIY project that allows you to erase highlighting without damaging the paper underneath. With just a few simple household ingredients, you can create an eraser that lifts highlighter marks cleanly so you can reuse pages you’ve highlighted before. Read on to learn the step-by-step method for making a highlighter eraser at home.

What You’ll Need

Here are the ingredients and supplies you’ll need to make a highlighter eraser:

• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide
• Small bowl for mixing
• Spoon for stirring
• Empty lip balm tube or small plastic container

How to Make the Eraser

Follow these simple steps to make your own highlighter eraser:

1. Add the baking soda, cornstarch, and hydrogen peroxide to the bowl. Stir well until a paste forms.
2. Scoop the paste into the empty lip balm tube or plastic container.
3. Allow the mixture to dry completely overnight. It should harden into an eraser-like consistency.
4. To use, simply rub the tip of the eraser over the highlighted area in a circular motion until the color lifts.
5. When not in use, cap the eraser to keep it from drying out.

How the Eraser Works

The baking soda and hydrogen peroxide work together to lift and absorb the highlighter ink from the page. Here is a breakdown of how each ingredient contributes to the eraser:

• Baking soda – Has a gentle abrasive quality that helps scrub off the highlighted marks without damaging paper.
• Cornstarch – Absorbs and lifts the ink away from the paper.
• Hydrogen peroxide – Breaks down and fades the highlighter pigment.

Combining these ingredients creates an effective highlighter eraser that can be used over and over again.

Tips for Making Your Own Eraser

Follow these tips for best results when making and using your homemade highlighter eraser:

• Make sure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed into a homogeneous paste.
• Let the eraser dry fully before the first use or it may tear the paper.
• Store in an airtight container and only expose the tip to air when using.
• Re-wet the tip with a few drops of hydrogen peroxide if it starts to dry out.
• Don’t scrub too hard on delicate papers to avoid tearing.
• Keep eraser out of reach of children. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate skin and eyes.

Troubleshooting

If you have any issues with your homemade eraser, try the following troubleshooting tips:

Issue	Solution
Eraser crumbles apart	Add more cornstarch to thicken the paste.
Eraser doesn’t lift highlighter	Stir in extra hydrogen peroxide for more lifting power.
Marks on paper after erasing	Rub more gently in a circular motion.

Storing Your Highlighter Eraser

To extend the life of your homemade highlighter eraser, be sure to store it properly between uses. Here are some storage tips:

• Keep inside an airtight container to prevent drying out.
• Small plastic jars or empty lip balm tubes work great.
• Squeeze excess air out before sealing if using a lip balm tube.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Always cap tightly after use.

How to Dispose of Used Eraser

Once your eraser has reached the end of its lifespan, you’ll need to dispose of it properly. Here is how to safely get rid of your used highlighter eraser:

• Allow any remaining eraser to fully dry out.
• Peel off and discard any eraser material left in the container.
• The leftover hardened material can go directly in the trash.
• Recycle the empty plastic container if possible.
• Do not attempt to rinse ingredients down the drain.

With this easy method, you can dispose of your homemade eraser while minimizing waste.

Benefits of a Homemade Eraser

Creating your own highlighter eraser has many advantages over store-bought options. Here are some of the top benefits:

• Saves money – Only costs pennies compared to $2 or more for commercial erasers.
• Customizable – Adjust the recipe to suit your specific needs.
• Less waste – Reuse old containers instead of throwing out plastic packaging.
• Control ingredients – Avoid harsh chemicals found in some mass-produced erasers.
• Fun project – Makes a great activity for kids and DIY enthusiasts.

Other Uses for Homemade Eraser

The highlighting erasing paste has some additional handy uses around the home. Here are a few other ways to use up your leftover eraser:

• Erase pen, crayon, and pencil marks from walls and furniture.
• Clean ink stains from fabric, carpets, and upholstery.
• Shine and disinfect porcelain sinks, tubs, and toilets.
• Remove soap scum and hard water stains from shower doors.
• Brighten tile and grout by scrubbing away grime.

So don’t throw out those eraser leftovers! First test on an inconspicuous area and rub gently to lift stains around your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a homemade eraser actually work?

Yes, a homemade highlighter eraser made with baking soda, cornstarch, and hydrogen peroxide can safely and effectively erase highlighting from paper. Many people confirm the DIY eraser works just as well, if not better, than store-bought options.

Can you use a homemade eraser on printed documents?

It’s best to avoid using the DIY eraser on delicate printed documents like books or magazines. Test first on a small corner to ensure it doesn’t smear ink. For best results, reserve the homemade eraser for erasing highlights on regular blank paper.

How long does a homemade highlighter eraser last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, a homemade eraser will typically last several months. With continued use, the eraser will eventually dry up. Just make a fresh batch whenever needed.

What can I use if I don’t have hydrogen peroxide?

You can substitute lemon juice or vinegar for the hydrogen peroxide in a homemade eraser recipe. Both contain acids that will help break down highlighter pigments. However, hydrogen peroxide works best for maximum erasing power.

Can I substitute ingredients to make vegan/allergy-friendly erasers?

Yes, you can swap baking soda for borax and cornstarch for arrowroot powder to make a vegan and allergy-friendly homemade eraser. Test first to ensure these substitutions erase highlighter effectively.

Conclusion

Creating your own highlighter eraser at home is an easy, economical way to erase and reuse previously highlighted papers. With just baking soda, cornstarch, and hydrogen peroxide, you can make an eraser that rivals the performance of store-bought options. Store your homemade eraser properly, and it will erase highlighter marks for months to come.