If you're planning to work with volunteers, please consider the following tips.
✔ Do's
Do make sure you wear gloves and safety glasses and protect yourself from the sun. Realize you are among others on the streets and stay road safe!
Do realize that nearly 60% of graffiti removals from painted surfaces are none other than paint-overs. A color match and paint over is often the best remedy for removing larger graffiti from painted walls.
Do try to remove little bits of each marker before embarking on a large area. If you can’t remove a few square inches then you will not be able to remove several square feet!
When using the Sensitive Surface Graffiti Remover or Safewipes, work on small areas at a time and wipe dissolved graffiti away as you go.
Do keep your toweling cloths clean as you go. Make sure they are damp before use. Wash your brushes and tools when finished.
Do realize that you are an important, skilled person who is much appreciated by your community. Make sure to have fun and success when removing graffiti.
🚫 Don'ts
Don’t be afraid to realize you are learning a skilled trade when removing graffiti. Experiment and tell others about your results. Visit our Training page for an introductory video.
Don’t repaint/obliterate something by using an obviously wrong color. Vandals are attracted exactly to the picture frame rectangle you have just completed.
Don’t think you can do anything and everything. Even professionals realize their limitations. Report what you can't remove and leave it to someone who has the correct tools and experience.
Don’t worry if every tiny bit is not removed; ‘Drive-By' standard will often do. You can always be finicky once the vandals are out of the area. Check out our Expert Advice Blog for detailed information on graffiti from various substrates.
Don’t worry if removals don’t always happen like they are supposed to. Shift to something that will work. There is no shortage of graffiti, and every little bit helps our community. Head for the areas that you can be successful in cleaning immediately.
Don't sweat it! Remember the Golden Rule: "If you're working hard, you're doing it wrong!" There should be no need for harsh scrubbing and elbow grease.