Whiteboard Markers and Dry-Erase Chemicals in Classrooms — child safety profile
Low riskDry-erase markers contain organic solvents — primarily isopropanol (IPA), 2-butoxyethanol (butyl cellosolve), and in some brands, n-butanol and ethanol.
What is this product?
Dry-erase markers contain organic solvents — primarily isopropanol (IPA), 2-butoxyethanol (butyl cellosolve), and in some brands, n-butanol and ethanol. 2-butoxyethanol is the primary health concern: EPA lists as a hazardous air pollutant precursor, causes headaches, eye/nose/throat irritation at concentrations common in poorly ventilated classrooms. Teachers and students in small classrooms using multiple markers simultaneously experience cumulative VOC exposure. Low-odor formulations use different solvent blends but still emit VOCs. EXPO brand reformulated to reduce 2-butoxyethanol but has not eliminated it. Water-based dry-erase markers exist but perform poorly (smearing, ghosting).
What's in it
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