subject: Choosing Accessories For Your Whiteboard Or Dry-erase Marker Board [print this page] Once you've purchased a whiteboard for your school or business, it's time to start thinking about what other supplies you'll need. Of course you'll need dry-erase markers, erasers, board cleaner, and quite possibly some other odds and ends you haven't thought of just yet. All of these things will play an essential role in making sure that you get the most out of your dry-erase markerboard. Here is a quick overview of some different whiteboard accessories that you might want to consider.
Dry-Erase Markers
If you've just bought a whiteboard, chances are you shelled out a lot of moolah for it. You definitely don't want to ruin your new board by using Sharpies or Mr. Sketch markers on it. (Oh, the horror!) You need markers that are specifically designed for whiteboard surfaces. You need to look for markers that have vivid, fast-drying ink and are totally non-toxic so they're safe for use in any environment. You should also consider low odor markers like the ones from Quartet. Dry erase markers are available in a variety of different colors and you can choose between bullet-tip, chisel-tip, and fine-point markers for several different looks. You can even get an accessory caddy to keep all of your markers together so you won't lose them.
Whiteboard Erasers
Aside from dry-erase markers, a whiteboard eraser is the number-one, must-have accessory for any whiteboard owner. Fortunately there are a huge number of dry-erase marker board erasers to choose from. There are large-surface erasers that can tackle even the biggest erasing job, plus there are a few erasers that can erase both whiteboards and chalkboards, so you won't have to keep two types of erasers on hand. The most basic erasers are inexpensive, washable, and absorb marker dust so your whiteboard will always look its best. However, for a little bit more money you can purchase a dustless eraser, a battery-operated unit that absorbs every last trace of marker dust. This type of eraser can be mounted on the wall with double-sided tape so it's always within reach.
Cleaning Products
It's important to properly maintain your whiteboard and one of the best ways to do that is by using whiteboard cleaner. Quartet makes a spray cleaner that's perfect for your whiteboard because it removes all traces of writing. For those of you who want a one-step cleaning solution, you can even buy BoardWipe Dry-Erase Cleaning Wipes that come in convenient pop-up containers and are totally non-toxic. These wipes have a plastic layer to protect your skin (and your manicure) from marker ink. And if you accidentally used a permanent marker on your whiteboard (oops!), don't fret because you can purchase a surface saver permanent ink remover which eliminates every last bit of permanent ink from your board. (You can breathe a sigh of relief now.)
Odds and Ends: Magnetic Whiteboard Accessories
If you're fortunate enough to own a magnetic whiteboard, you may want to check out their selection of magnetic accessories. You can get colorful magnetic pushpins that instantly turn your whiteboard into a type of bulletin board, as well as magnets so you can display your documents. There are even magnetic letters and numbers that allow you to create all sorts of messages on your board. (Kind of like Magnetic Poetry!) If you look around you can even find magnetic strips that can be written on and erased, so you'll always be able to create customized magnets for your whiteboard.
Having a whiteboard can make you more productive, but you have to have the right supplies handy to make the most of your board. With the right whiteboard accessories, you'll be able to not only communicate more effectively, you'll have fun doing it...and you won't have to worry about permanent markers ruining your board.
