Current methods of graffiti removal: A review

•Survey of graffiti removal methods used on different structures.•Advantages and limitations of current cleaning methods.•Graffiti–substrate relation: efficacy of cleaning in relation to substrate characteristics.•Traditional versus novel cleaning techniques.•Bioremediation: a novel approach to graffiti removal.

This paper reviews current knowledge and recent advances in methods of graffiti removal. Three approaches were considered: chemical, physical (including laser) and biological. Findings concerning the efficiency and effectiveness of the methods, including any damage to the substrate or other side effects, are described. Emphasis is placed on the limitations of the reported methods. Finally, current trends and improvements in graffiti removal methods towards the use of more efficient and less damaging treatments are addressed.