Question about those dry erase marker tricks for stuck buttons

I was scrolling through an old trade forum last night and saw a post claiming dry erase marker ink can re-lubricate the rubber membrane on a microwave keypad. Tried it on a GE model that had a dead 'add 30 sec' button and it actually brought it back to life after three applications. Anyone else run into weird single-use tricks that actually hold up long term?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_paul2d ago

Whoa, that's actually a solid trick. I've heard similar things about using dry erase marker on game cartridges to fix contact issues. Nintendo 64 carts especially. The alcohol in the marker dissolves corrosion. Three applications sounds right for tough buildup. I bet it works on any rubber membrane switch - remote controls, old keyboards, even some car stereo buttons. Just let it fully dry between coats.

robinson.hannah2d ago

Does the dry erase marker trick work on controllers with worn out rubber pads or just grimy ones? I've got an old SNES controller that barely registers button presses anymore and I'm desperate.

keithbutler1h ago

Close but it's isopropyl alcohol in the marker, not ethanol.