General Magic Erasers for Detailing Estimated reading: 1 minute 1130 views Summary: Magic erasers can work some magic in detailing, but you shouldn't use them on everything. Melamine foam or “magic erasers” are tools that have become more common in detailing because they’re easy to use and cut down on scrubbing time, but despite the name they’re not fully magic. They work by removing the upper molecular layers of a surface as you scrub back and forth, similar to extremely fine sandpaper. Melamine foam is a well-suited emergency option on plastics and non-sensitive surfaces. You should always with a cleaner and lubricant to avoid scrubbing off too much of the surface and causing damage. Where can I use a magic eraser? It’s great on unsealed glass with no tint, like the outside of windows, and chrome trim. You can use it as an emergency tool for grime on unpainted plastics. Never use a magic eraser on paint or leather because it’ll damage the surface, and that kind of damage is difficult to repair.