When Not to Use the Magic Eraser
Magic Erasers are incredibly versatile cleaners that can remove even the toughest stains and hardened debris from a wide variety of surfaces. But sometimes they work too well, removing some paint or varnish along with the dirt. This is because magic erasers are abrasive cleaners that are not marketed as such. This must be remembered in order to avoid disaster.
Although they look like sponges, magic erasers are actually blocks of melamine foam, a porous material that is much less pleasant than it sounds. According to HowStuffWorks.com , melamine foam is composed of microscopic air bubbles trapped in strands of hardened melamine resin. These filaments are very hard intact and very sharp when broken, like tiny shards of glass. Rubbing the surface of the magic eraser activates its powerful combination of functions: melamine resin scrapes away impurities and air bubbles instantly absorb them. If anything remains, a little additional pressure breaks the melamine into small particles, which add even more abrasive force. This is similar to using sandpaper to remove its own dust.
Once you understand how magic erasers work, figuring out when not to use them becomes much easier. If you will never, never use sandpaper on this surface – even the smallest possible – also do not use a magic eraser on it. This removes most painted, enamelled, lacquered, sealed, or other coated surfaces that you might recognize as the most common victims of magic eraser crimes. Stainless steel also falls into this category, as magic erasers can permanently dull its smooth surface. Usually, if there is a shiny finish, keep the magic eraser away.
You should also remember that just like sandpaper, magic erasers don’t work without a little lubricant on your elbows. For example, if you cut open a magic eraser and toss it down the toilet – the real thing I’ve seen for some reason recommended – it won’t magically “clear” the bowl when you flush out the water. The combination of air bubble and melamine must physically rub against something in order to erase it and absorb the evidence; dissolving it in water destroys the goal. Better to use WD-40 , Alka-Seltzer, or even mouthwash , which really do dissolve the dirt.
Otherwise, most surfaces are suitable for a magic eraser. It’s always a good idea to test for a small out-of-field spot first, especially for surfaces you’ve never used a magic eraser on before. But in fact, as long as you avoid shiny things – and remember that even “magic” cleaning products must obey the laws of physics, you will be fine.