If you’ve ever removed a poster, photo, or piece of Blu Tack from your wall only to be left with a greasy shadow that refuses to budge, you’re not alone. From children’s bedroom walls to office spaces and rented flats, those oily residue marks left behind by tape, Blu Tack, or everyday grime can be frustratingly stubborn, especially on painted surfaces.
Combine that with cooking splatters in the kitchen or the occasional mystery smear in high-traffic areas, and keeping walls looking fresh can feel like a full-time job. But according to Youtuber That Aussie Cleaner, there’s an incredibly simple solution, and it only costs around £3.
The cleaning expert, known for his no-nonsense approach and satisfying before-and-afters, swears by the magic eraser, a melamine sponge that he says makes grease marks “slide right off” with minimal effort.
“Wet the magic eraser with water, then squeeze out any excess water to avoid over-saturating the sponge,” he explains in a recent video.
“Then just use gentle, circular motions on the grease mark.” After rubbing, he recommends wiping the area down with a clean, damp cloth to lift away any loosened residue or foam particles.
But he’s also quick to offer a word of warning: “Magic erasers are abrasive. Don’t scrub too hard, or you might end up taking the paint off. And if you’re not sure about the finish, always test in a hidden spot first.”
The sponge works like a super-fine sandpaper, gently buffing away surface grime, which makes it effective, but also something to use carefully.
Still, for anyone dealing with greasy smudges from Blu Tack, fingerprints, food, or general wear and tear, this £3 cleaning hack is a game-changer.