Have you ever been in a situation where you remove a label from an item, but the adhesive residue won't go out? Or have you ever asked yourself if you can take away the gummy leftover from a label? Well, you will be relieved to know that the answer is yes.
Sometimes, it might be a tedious job, and you might get tempted to scrape that place with a metal blade. It is not advisable because you might end up scratching the surface of that item.
However, you should follow these guidelines on how to get rid of sticker residue off your glass, plastic, or wood objects. One unique feature of these procedures is that all the necessary equipment you need to carry out this process, you already have it in the comfort of your home. These tools will help soften, melt, and get rid of the gluey substance from your item.
How to Get Rid of Sticker Residue
In removing sticker residue, you need to try using your fingers first to get-off as much gummy leftover as possible. Employ this method by massaging the sticky glue into balls with the tips of your finger and after this, try pulling or rubbing them out. If the gum is on your clothing materials or fabrics, make sure to take out adhesive before washing your clothes.
Nevertheless, you do not have to spend time rubbing a label remainder out of any item. Simply use one of these techniques to avoid any sticky situation, and it will disappear before you say Jack (pun intended). Here are the methods or ways that will help you remove sticker residue from any glass, plastic, metal, fabric, or another object.
1. Plastic Scrapers
Plastic scrapers are less likely to damage what you are scraping, unlike the metal blades that might mar the place. It might be a gift card, a plastic knife, or a rubber sponge that they make from plastic.
- If you are using a plastic scraper, it may take time because it might not be sharp enough to remove the glue.
2. Hair Dryer
Using a hairdryer is one of the easiest ways of removing the adhesive. It is because once you heat it, it melts away the sticky substance from its spot, and you have to remove the sticker from any surface. You can get a hairdryer from your bathroom. So, on your hairdryer, aim it at the decal residue and allow it to heat for thirty seconds. Then, scratch the spot to remove sticky substances.
- When using the hairdryer, try not to over-heat it as it will damage the object.
3. Hot Water
Placing an item like paper or glue in hot water makes it soft. It works better than cold water as cold water does not effectively remove the adhesive. Thus, to do this process, fill a sink with hot water, then add a few drops of dish detergent inside it. Submerge the object in it and scratch the glue using your finger or a plastic knife.
- Avoid placing an item that is not water-resistant inside hot water because it will damage it.
4. Alcohol
Another easy way of getting out of sticky situations is by using alcohol. Alcohol works great for any plastic, glass, or wood items and is also safe for all surfaces. If you do not have any alcoholic liquid, you should use the nail polish remover, which is different alcohol-based water to dissolve the glues.
Dampen or soak a clean cloth, rag, or paper towel in alcohol. After this, rub it on the residue to get the adhesive out. For stubborn decals, wrap the alcohol-soaked rag around it and leave it on the sticky area for some minutes before wiping.
- In a case where you cannot get alcohol, vodka is a great alternative.
5. Vinegar
If you dilute a mild acid like vinegar with water and place it on an object, it will help you remove sticky leftovers. To get rid of sticky situations, wet a dishrag or paper towel in vinegar, and place it on the gluey part. Leave the vinegar to work its magic and to soften the glue for a few minutes, then wipe the needed spot.
- You can also use vinegar to clean your house.
6. Peanut Butter
It is rich in fat and is works well for melting away gummy remainders. If you want to dissolve sticky remains of a plastic, glass, or wood item, smear a layer of peanut butter on the spot. Let it soften or melt, then take a clean or damp cloth to wipe it away.
7. Apply Canola
Do you have canola at home? Why not reach for it the next time you want to get a sticky glue out? If you do not have one, grab one at the nearest store. Dab your canola oil with your fingers or on a paper towel to soften the glue. Then, wait a few minutes before scraping the gum with a rubber knife or your fingertips. When you finish, do not forget to wipe off excess oil from the object.
- If you cannot get canola, then try olive oil, coconut oil, or any other type of cooking oil. It also has the same effect.
- Make sure to test the oil in any other place before applying it to your object because it might stain the item.
8. Rubber Eraser
If you have removed your label, but the gum refuses to go off, then quickly grab a rubber eraser. The rubber will stick on the adhesive and roll the remainder away from the object. It will also allow ease of scraping.
- Note that erasers do not work well for errant pencil stains.
- Rubber erasers do not work for all surfaces. Before using it, test it to know if it will work on the object you want to clean.
9. Cleaners
You can also try some commercial cleaners. They will help get rid of the label gums. You will always find directions on how to use cleaners for such goods. But if you do not want to follow the instructions, apply the product on the spot you want to wipe. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a clean cloth or towel.
- Read the instructions properly before you try every cleaner product.
10. WD-40
WD-40 is a lubricant that is inexpensive, easy to obtain, and has a lot of uses. One principal work of the WD-40 is to remove decal adhesives on an item or object. Spray the liquid onto the spot and let it soak for a while. After this, wipe with a cloth or clean towel, and you will see that the glue will be easier to come off.
- Other lubricants do not apply.
How to Get Sticker Residue Off Plastic
Plastic is a versatile material that they to produce every object and any item. But, the sticky leftovers that stay on the object after peeling the label have continued to leave the plastics impractical and cause damage to them. When you want to remove sticker residue from plastic, there are several steps that you can practice. Here are the techniques to follow when getting rid of sticky substances on your plastic.
1. Rub Adhesive with Your Thumb
Massage the remaining glue with your thumb slowly and roll the gum into small circles. It will help to get rid of the stubborn gums from the labels. If this does not work, that means that the leftover adhesive is from a water-soluble glue.
2. Clean with Paper Towels in Warm Water
In this method, soak a paper towel in warm water and sold the towels into layers. Put the damp paper towel on the adhesive remains and leave it to rest for a few minutes. The water-soluble glue will be easier to wipe off.
3. Scrape the Sticky Glue
Try scraping the sticky substance with your fingernails or rubber blade. But before you do this, test the knife on another surface to ensure that you do not scratch the rubber.
4. Apply Pressure on The Spot
Make a solution of warm water, liquid dish-washing soap, and vinegar. Then, wet a sponge, clean cloth, or towel in the mixture. Using the damp material and scrub the leftover glue in a circular motion. After this, apply moderate pressure. After doing this, wipe with another wet cloth that you did not saturate in the water mixture. Then dry the rubber with a neat cloth.
5. Try Using Lubricant
Additionally, treat the sticky place with a lubricant that will penetrate any area and make it soft. Do this by spraying the lube on the spot, then scrub the remaining gum with a clean wet cloth. Make sure that you keep the damp cloth inside soapy water. If you cannot get your hands on a lube, try using salad oil or mineral oil. They also do the jo trick.
