When I compare retractable washable markers, I weigh more than the click mechanism: the set also needs to suit its user, offer a practical color range, and make cleanup expectations clear. The Crayola Clicks 20 Count leads for most families because it combines a larger palette with tips that support both fine lines and broad strokes. I’d pick the JoyCat 10-Color Click Markers for younger children who need a simpler, cap-free set, while the Crayola Neon 10 Count is the color-focused choice for projects that call for bright fluorescent shades.
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The main tradeoff is straightforward: more colors and drawing flexibility favor the 20-count Crayola, while compact sets are easier to pack and less involved for a small activity. All three use washable ink, but their descriptions do not promise easy removal from every fabric, and JoyCat specifically warns that its ink may stain. I rank these options by how clearly their retractable design, age guidance, color selection, and stated cleanup properties match a buyer’s needs—not by claims that the available information cannot support.
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Key Takeaways
- The Crayola Clicks 20 Count is my strongest all-around pick: it has 20 markers and cone tips specified for both fine lines and broad strokes.
- The JoyCat set is the clearest age match for children starting at age 3, though its maker says the ink may stain and does not list the individual colors.
- The Crayola Neon set is the specialized choice for bright neon projects, with 10 colors and an age recommendation of 8 and up.
- All three sets avoid removable marker caps during use, but only the Crayola 20 Count description specifies water-based ink.
- Washable does not mean safe for every surface: Crayola says most washable clothing, while JoyCat says its markers are not for whiteboards and may leave stains.
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Washable Markers, 20 Count |  | Best Overall | Count: 20 markers | Color selection: 10 assorted colors and 10 bold colors | Ink: Water-based, washable, non-toxic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JoyCat 10-Color Washable Click Markers for Kids |  | Best for Younger Beginners | Count: 10 markers | Colors: 10; individual colors not specified | Age range: 3 years and up | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Tip Neon Washable Markers, 10 Count |  | Best for Neon Projects | Count: 10 markers | Colors: Assorted neon | Ink: Washable, non-toxic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| retractable washable marker | Count | Ink | Tip | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Was | 20 markers | Water-based, washable, non-toxic | Retractable cone tip | — |
| JoyCat 10-Color Washable Click | 10 markers | Washable; description says it rinses off with water | — | 10; individual colors not specified |
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Tip | 10 markers | Washable, non-toxic | Retractable; medium point | Assorted neon |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Crayola Clicks Retractable Washable Markers, 20 Count
The Crayola Clicks 20 Count is my best overall choice because it combines the largest listed set with the most clearly described drawing flexibility. Its 20 markers include 10 assorted colors and 10 bold colors, so it offers more room to switch palettes than the 10-marker JoyCat and neon Crayola sets. The cone tips are described as supporting both fine lines and broad strokes, making this the strongest fit for a shared supply that needs to handle more than one coloring style.
Its retractable click tips address the everyday inconvenience of loose or misplaced caps. Compared with the two smaller sets, the 20-count format gives a child or family more colors before needing to add another pack, although it will take up more space in a bag than JoyCat’s compact set. The listing gives two line sizes, 0.7 mm and 0.9 mm; that is useful detail, but it does not suggest a wide range of line widths beyond those specified.
Cleanup claims are encouraging but limited. The water-based, washable, non-toxic ink is stated to clean from skin and most washable clothing, not every fabric. That wording is similar to the neon Crayola’s clothing claim and less reassuring than a promise covering a specific textile would be. I would still protect clothing during enthusiastic coloring, especially if the fabric is delicate or not labeled washable.
Compared with the neon set, this one is a better everyday generalist: it gives buyers more markers and avoids limiting the palette to neon colors. Compared with JoyCat, it provides twice as many markers and more explicit tip information, but its listing does not specify a starting age of 3. I’d choose it for a school-age child or household looking for one versatile cap-free set; I’d skip it if a smaller starter pack or an explicit preschool age recommendation matters more than color variety.
Pros:- 20 markers provide more color options than either 10-count set.
- Retractable click tips avoid removable caps during use.
- Cone tips are described as supporting fine lines and broad strokes.
- Water-based, washable, non-toxic ink is stated to clean from skin and most washable clothing.
Cons:- The clothing-cleanup claim covers most washable clothing, not every fabric.
- Only two line sizes are specified, so buyers seeking a wider range of nib sizes have little guidance.
- The listing identifies the age range as kids without giving a specific starting age.
Best for: Families and school-age children who want a larger everyday set for both fine details and broader coloring.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking a compact 10-marker pack, a neon-only palette, or a stated age recommendation as young as 3.
- Count:20 markers
- Color selection:10 assorted colors and 10 bold colors
- Ink:Water-based, washable, non-toxic
- Tip:Retractable cone tip
- Line sizes:0.7 mm and 0.9 mm
- Recommended uses:Coloring and drawing
- Material:Plastic
- Age guidance:Kids
Our verdict“I’d choose this as the most versatile set for everyday drawing because it offers the broadest color selection and the clearest tip flexibility.”
JoyCat 10-Color Washable Click Markers for Kids
The JoyCat 10-Color Washable Click Markers are my pick for younger beginners because the stated age range starts at 3, younger than the age guidance supplied for either Crayola set. Their retractable tips let children use the markers without handling separate caps, and the 10-marker count keeps the set relatively simple for a short drawing session or a trip. That makes JoyCat a more focused starter option than the Crayola 20 Count, which offers twice as many colors and more drawing flexibility.
JoyCat’s compact format is useful when the goal is to pack a modest activity kit rather than equip a classroom or shared art table. The product description says the ink rinses off with water, but it also warns that the markers may leave stains. I would take that warning seriously: the wording does not offer the same specific claim as Crayola’s statement that ink washes from skin and most washable clothing. For parents, washable here should not be read as permission to use the markers on good clothes, upholstery, or surfaces that need guaranteed stain removal.
The listing does not name the 10 individual colors, and it specifically says the markers are not intended for whiteboards. That makes this set less informative for shoppers planning a particular palette or looking for a multipurpose marker. Unlike the Crayola 20 Count, its description does not specify tip shape or line widths, so I would not choose it for a project that needs known detail control.
Compared with the neon Crayola, JoyCat has a lower stated age threshold and a general 10-color format rather than an explicitly neon palette. Compared with the 20-count Crayola, it is smaller and simpler, but gives up the larger selection and the more detailed tip information. Its three-year warranty is a listed reassurance, although the description does not spell out what it covers. This is a sensible first set when age fit and cap-free use outweigh uncertainty about exact colors and fabric cleanup.
Pros:- Stated age range begins at 3 years and up.
- Retractable tips provide cap-free use for drawing and coloring.
- Compact 10-color set is suited to travel and smaller activities.
- The listing includes a three-year warranty.
Cons:- The product description warns that ink may leave stains.
- Individual marker colors are not specified.
- Not intended for whiteboards, and tip shape or line width is not listed.
Best for: Caregivers shopping for a simple retractable marker set for children ages 3 and up, especially for supervised drawing at home or on trips.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a stated color-by-color palette, dependable cleanup guidance for clothing, or markers for whiteboards.
- Count:10 markers
- Colors:10; individual colors not specified
- Age range:3 years and up
- Tip design:Retractable
- Ink:Washable; description says it rinses off with water
- Materials:Plastic
- Dimensions:5.3 x 3.5 x 7.2 inches
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“I’d pick JoyCat for a younger child who needs a compact, cap-free starter set, provided the caregiver is comfortable with its stain warning.”
Crayola Clicks Retractable Tip Neon Washable Markers, 10 Count
The Crayola Clicks Neon 10 Count is the specialist in this group. Its 10 assorted neon colors suit projects where bright fluorescent shades are the point, rather than a broad everyday palette. That focus sets it apart from the Crayola 20 Count, which is the more adaptable pick for ordinary coloring and drawing, and from JoyCat, whose individual colors are not listed at all. If a project calls for neon, the specific palette matters more than simply having the highest marker count.
Like the other Crayola set, the neon markers have retractable tips and washable, non-toxic ink described as washing from skin and most washable clothing. The click design removes the need to keep track of separate caps, which can help when markers travel between home, school, or an activity bag. The stated 0.3-millimeter line size gives a more precise specification than the JoyCat listing, though the supplied description also calls the point medium; buyers should not treat those details as proof of a broad line-width range.
The biggest limitation is versatility: neon shades are a deliberate choice, not a substitute for a conventional assortment if the user wants natural colors or a wide range of standard tones. At 10 markers, it also gives buyers fewer options than the 20-count Crayola Clicks. The age recommendation is 8 and up, so this is not the age-led starter pick; JoyCat is the better fit for younger children based on the stated guidance.
Crayola says the ink washes from most washable clothing, which leaves exceptions unspecified. I’d keep that caveat in mind for garments that are delicate, dry-clean-only, or especially valued. The listing gives a smooth grip and ambidextrous hand orientation, but those details do not overcome the narrower color purpose for a buyer who needs one do-everything set. I rank it third overall because its appeal is narrower, while still making it the clearest choice for older children or project makers who specifically want neon markers in a retractable washable format.
Pros:- Includes 10 assorted neon colors for high-visibility creative projects.
- Retractable tips avoid separate caps and suit travel use.
- Washable, non-toxic ink is described as cleaning from skin and most washable clothing.
- The listing specifies a 0.3-millimeter line size and ambidextrous hand orientation.
Cons:- The neon-only focus is less versatile than the 20-count Crayola assortment.
- Recommended for ages 8 and up, older than JoyCat’s stated starting age.
- The clothing-cleanup claim does not name fabrics beyond most washable clothing.
Best for: Children ages 8 and up, students, and project makers who specifically want a compact set of neon washable markers.
Not ideal for: Younger children, buyers looking for standard everyday shades, or anyone who wants the largest color selection in one set.
- Count:10 markers
- Colors:Assorted neon
- Ink:Washable, non-toxic
- Tip:Retractable; medium point
- Line size:0.3 mm
- Hand orientation:Ambidextrous
- Grip:Smooth
- Recommended age:8 and up
Our verdict“I’d choose this set when neon color is the main requirement, but not as my first pick for a general-purpose marker collection.”
How We Picked
I ranked these three sets around the needs implied by retractable washable markers: easy access without loose caps, a useful color selection, cleanup information that is stated rather than assumed, and a clear fit for the intended age or activity. I gave the Crayola 20 Count the top spot because it pairs the broadest listed color selection with a cone tip described as supporting fine and broad marks. That combination gives it more range for everyday coloring and drawing than either 10-color set.
I treated washability as a qualified claim, not a guarantee. Both Crayola descriptions say ink washes from skin and most washable clothing; neither claims every textile will release ink. JoyCat says the ink rinses off with water, but also warns that it may leave stains. That caveat affects its ranking for households concerned about clothing or furniture. I did not infer stain removal from the word washable alone.
The sets also serve different ages and creative priorities, so raw marker count was not my only measure. JoyCat’s stated age range starts at 3, which makes it the most age-inclusive option described here. Crayola’s neon set is listed for ages 8 and up, while the 20-count listing says kids without a specific starting age. The neon set earns a distinct role for its vivid palette, not for general-purpose versatility.
I used the supplied descriptions and specifications as the basis for comparison. Where a product listing does not identify its individual colors, fabric limits, or another detail, I call that out rather than filling the gap with an assumption. These are feature-based recommendations; I do not imply hands-on testing or make performance claims beyond the information provided.
| retractable washable marker | Ink | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Was | Water-based, washable, non-toxic | Retractable cone tip |
| JoyCat 10-Color Washable Click | Washable; description says it rinses off with water | — |
| Crayola Clicks Retractable Tip | Washable, non-toxic | Retractable; medium point |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Retractable Washable Markers
Retractable markers solve one specific problem—loose caps—but they do not make every set interchangeable. I’d choose by starting with the user’s age and project, then checking how much the product actually says about its colors, tip, and cleanup. These three options differ most in palette size, age guidance, and how clearly they define their limits.
Match the set to the job
For an all-purpose family or school supply, I’d favor the Crayola Clicks 20 Count. Its 20 markers offer more choice than either 10-count set, and the cone-tip description covers both fine lines and broad strokes. That flexibility makes it easier to move between outlining, filling areas, and ordinary coloring without buying a second style of marker.
The neon Crayola serves a narrower purpose: it is the pick when the user wants bright neon shades, not a replacement for a conventional assortment. JoyCat is more compact and age-inclusive on the information provided, but its individual colors and line width are not listed. I’d choose that set for simpler activities rather than projects requiring a specific palette or predictable mark width.
Read washable claims carefully
Washable ink can make art activities easier to manage, but the wording matters. Both Crayola listings say the ink washes off skin and most washable clothing. That is a qualified claim: it does not promise removal from every textile, and the listings do not identify which fabrics may be exceptions. For clothing you want to protect, use a smock or choose a washable surface rather than relying on the label alone.
JoyCat says its ink rinses off with water, yet also warns that it may leave stains. I would treat that warning as a meaningful drawback, not an incidental note. None of these descriptions supports assuming the markers will clean from furniture, carpets, or all household materials. If surface cleanup is your main concern, keep the activity area controlled and check the maker’s directions before use.
Consider age and cap-free handling
JoyCat states an age range of 3 years and up, while the neon Crayola recommends ages 8 and up. The 20-count Crayola listing says kids but does not give a specific starting age. Those details can help narrow the choice, but they do not replace adult judgment about a child’s needs or supervision.
All three options use retractable tips, so none relies on a removable cap for ordinary use. That can reduce the chance of misplaced caps and make quick coloring sessions simpler. It does not mean markers can be left open indefinitely or will never dry out; the supplied product details do not make that guarantee. I’d still retract the tips after each session and store the markers as directed.
Compare palette and tip information
Color count is a useful starting point, but it is not the whole decision. The 20-count Crayola lists two groups of colors—10 assorted and 10 bold—while the neon Crayola identifies its colors as assorted neon. JoyCat lists 10 colors without naming them. If a child has a favorite color or a project needs particular shades, the more specific descriptions are more useful than an unspecified assortment.
Tip detail also varies. The 20-count Crayola lists a cone tip and two line sizes, and the neon set specifies a 0.3-millimeter line size alongside a medium point. JoyCat simply identifies retractable tips. If drawing fine details matters, I’d lean toward one of the Crayola listings because they provide more information, while remembering that listed specifications do not tell the whole story of how a mark will look on every paper.
Pick a pack size that fits how you store markers
A 10-marker set may be easier to pack for a short trip or keep near a small activity space. JoyCat gives dimensions of 5.3 x 3.5 x 7.2 inches, while the neon Crayola also lists dimensions and a weight. The 20-count set gives more colors, but the supplied information does not include its package dimensions, so I would not assume it is only slightly larger. Think about whether the set will live in a backpack, a drawer, or a shared art area.
If the markers will be shared by siblings or classmates, the extra colors in the 20-count set can reduce the need to rotate a small palette. For a personal travel kit or a child who is just starting to draw, a 10-count pack may be simpler. Choose the smallest set that supports the activity, unless the value of having more colors is central to the way the markers will be used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which retractable washable marker set is best for most buyers?
I’d start with the Crayola Clicks 20 Count for most school-age children and families. It has the largest listed selection, and its cone tips are described as supporting fine lines and broad strokes. Buyers who specifically want neon shades should choose the 10-count neon set instead, while JoyCat is the age-led option for children starting at 3.
Are all three sets suitable for preschoolers?
The listings do not support that conclusion for every set. JoyCat is stated for ages 3 and up, while the neon Crayola recommends ages 8 and up. The 20-count Crayola listing says kids but does not give a starting age. I’d follow the age guidance on the selected package and use adult supervision when appropriate.
Does washable ink come out of every kind of clothing?
No product description here promises cleanup from every fabric. The Crayola sets say the ink washes from skin and most washable clothing, which leaves exceptions unspecified. JoyCat says its ink rinses with water but also warns that it may stain. I would protect clothing and test any cleanup approach on an inconspicuous area rather than treating washable as a guarantee.
Which set should I choose for neon colors?
The Crayola Clicks Neon 10 Count is the direct match because its 10 colors are described as assorted neon. The 20-count Crayola offers more markers and broader everyday utility, but its listing does not identify a neon palette. JoyCat does not name its individual colors, so I would not choose it when neon shades are a requirement.
Can I use retractable washable markers on a whiteboard?
I would not use JoyCat markers on a whiteboard; the product description explicitly says they are not intended for that surface and may leave stains. The supplied Crayola descriptions do not establish that either set is suitable for whiteboards. For a dry-erase board, I’d choose markers specifically labeled for whiteboard use instead of relying on a washable-ink claim.
Conclusion
For a single set that can cover the widest range of everyday drawing, I recommend the Crayola Clicks 20 Count: it has twice the markers of the smaller packs and the clearest support for both fine and broad marks. Choose JoyCat if you’re shopping for a younger child and prefer a compact, cap-free set with an age range starting at 3, while keeping its stain warning in mind. Pick the Crayola Neon 10 Count when the project calls for fluorescent color and the user meets its age recommendation of 8 and up. My main caution across all three is the same: washable ink is not a promise of easy cleanup from every fabric or surface, so match the set to the activity and protect materials you care about.
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