The 7 Best Dry Erase Paints

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in November of 2018. It's a simple fact of life: kids love drawing on things they're not supposed to, and that includes your walls. Instead of giving up and letting them lower the resale value of the house, you can turn an entire room into one big whiteboard. They can decorate their space according to whatever's popular this week, only to erase it and start over once the next big fad comes along. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in November of 2018. It's a simple fact of life: kids love drawing on things they're not supposed to, and that includes your walls. Instead of giving up and letting them lower the resale value of the house, you can turn an entire room into one big whiteboard. They can decorate their space according to whatever's popular this week, only to erase it and start over once the next big fad comes along. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Smark Clear

Since Smark Clear (about $53) comes in three different sizes, including 200 square feet, you won't have to worry about running out before the job's done. It adheres to glass and tile, so you can let your children doodle all over the house.

Ready to write on in 24 hours
Uv-resistant finish
Doesn't fade or yellow over time

2. Remarkable 35 Square Foot

Because it's available in both white and clear varieties, Remarkable 35 Square Foot (about $120) can be completely invisible when nothing's written on it. In addition to drawing on it, you can also apply stickers that will peel off later without leaving marks.

Non-toxic formula is safe for kids
Doesn't give off foul odor
Packaging doubles as mixing tray

3. American Crafts DIY Shop

American Crafts DIY Shop (around $7) is designed for chalk, but provides a precision that many other options lack. You can use as much or as little at a time as you want, allowing for creative decorations on everything from place mats to napkins.

Resealable container
Thick liquid doesn't run down walls
Inexpensive for those on a budget

4. Rust-Oleum Specialty

Rust-Oleum Specialty (about $54) is compatible with most standard marker sets, and can be applied to metal and wood, making it an ideal option for unconventional surfaces. You can periodically wash it using soap to restore the original look.

Simple two-part mix
Glossy finish looks smooth
Can't save leftovers for later use

5. IdeaPaint Home

The IdeaPaint Home (appx. $140) set comes with detailed instructions to make sure you get things right the first time, so your children can get to scribbling. They also offer a vast array of erasers and cleaners, in case the little ones press down too hard.

Roller is provided
Single coat application
Must wait four days for drying

6. FolkArt Chalkboard

To give the kids an art project, set them up in the garage with some FolkArt Chalkboard (around $11), which comes in six cool colors, like "hot pink" and "true blue." They can craft a unique Mother's Day gift that you can proudly hang and display.

Doesn't require mixing
Holds up after repeated writing
Small jar not enough for big spaces

7. Create Paint DIY

If you merely wish to restore an old classroom board, you can get as little as one pint of Create Paint DIY (about $50), or more if you want to cover an entire wall. Just be sure to act quickly, as the mixture tends to become thick and difficult to work with if left sitting.

Resists ink absorption
Recommended cure period is 1 week
Works best if surface is sanded

Last updated by Gregg Parker

Gregg Parker is a writer and puppy enthusiast who divides his time between Los Angeles and the rest of the world. A graduate of the University of Southern California, his eclectic career has involved positions in education, health care, entertainment, nonprofit fundraising, technology, and literature. A points and miles expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including luggage and travel accessories. Other areas of expertise include pet care products, teaching resources, kitchen appliances, and anything related to coffee or barbecue.

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