Best Way To Remove Sticky Tape Residue & Adhesive

hero

Best Way To Remove Sticky Tape Residue & Adhesive

By : Jessica Williams

Stubborn packing tape and sticker labels on plastic bottles, jars, hardwood floors and other delicate surfaces are hard to remove. It can leave adhesive stains behind. If you are tempted to scrape the area with a sharp object like a putty knife or blade, it will cause further damage to the surface. Thus, these adhesives require proper techniques and products to avoid messy residues, tough stains and scratches on delicate surfaces.

You may simplify the process by incorporating store-bought adhesive removers to tackle glue and tape residues, but these often contain hazardous chemicals and other VOCs. Frequent usage of these products can lead to various health concerns, such as respiratory diseases and skin infections, and even trigger pre-existing allergies. Moreover, using harsh products can also cause damage to fragile surfaces like glass and hardwood floors.

Fret Not! Below is a comprehensive guide on eliminating sticky tape residues, glue stains and adhesives from different surfaces. The following hacks, recommended by end of lease cleaning Adelaide professionals, can help you achieve spotless results in a breeze.

Let’s Get Started!

1. Identifying Different Types of Sticky Residue/Adhesives

It is imperative to understand the different types of adhesives when tacking them. Each type needs a specific technique or product for optimal results. So, consider the following types:

  • Pressure-Sensitive Adhesives: These are commonly found on glass bottles, jars, stickers and masking tape labels. You’ll need mildly strong agents for effective removal.
  • Water-Activated Adhesives: These are often used for envelopes and stamps. You can remove residue using water-based products.
  • Permanent Adhesives: These take a lot of time and energy to remove. Use stronger solvents and proper scrubbing tools for effective results.

Every homeowner in South Australia should know the right techniques to deal with different types of adhesives to prevent structural damage or scratches.

2. Use Hot, Soapy Water

a person trying to clean stain on a household surface

For water-activated adhesives and sticky residues, mix a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent and one cup of hot water into a container. Then, soak a clean cloth or sponge into the water and place it over the affected area for 10-15 minutes. This will soften the adhesive. Next, rub or scrub the area with a plastic scraper. Do this with your gentle hands to prevent damage. Wipe down again and let it dry completely.

Tip: This method works wonders on non-porous surfaces like plastic, metal and glass.

3. The Duo of Baking Soda and Coconut Oil

You can use this eco-friendly product to remove tape residue and adhesive stains without causing any damage to the surface. It can remove label and sticker residues from bottles, jars and hardwood floors without much elbow grease. You’ll need 2 parts of baking soda and 1 part of coconut oil. Add a few drops of tea tree oil or any of your favourite essential oils and prepare a thick paste.

Apply it over the sticky residue and let it sit for 10-20 minutes. Baking soda is the best degreaser for stubborn stains and can break down gooey residue with ease. Coconut oil, on the other hand, makes scrubbing super seamless. You can scrub the stain using a damp sponge or cloth.

Tip: Leave the paste for an hour or two to eliminate stubborn labels and masking tape residues from wooden furniture pieces.

4. Use the Hairdryer Method

This method may sound unusual, but it can deliver great outcomes. It is good to place your hair dryer in front of sticker residue and turn it on (heat setting). Let the hot air soften the adhesive stains. Next, scrape the surface with a plastic scraper or finger.

However, if you are preparing for the final rental inspection, book experts for a professional end of lease cleaning Adelaide and secure hard earned bond money. They follow tried and tested methods to remove stubborn stains like adhesives without leaving scratches behind.

5. Rubbing Alcohol to the Rescue

There is no denying that rubbing alcohol is one of the most powerful cleaning agents for a home. It can kill lurking germs and bacteria from different surfaces while dislodging stubborn stains like sticky tape residue.

Wet a microfiber cloth or towel with rubbing alcohol and gently scrub the affected area, like your hardwood floor or glass surface, to remove the residue. You can also place an alcohol-soaked cloth over the area for 24 hours for better results.

Tip: Use methylated spirits for stubborn adhesive residues. It can do wonders in no time.

6. White Vinegar Solution For Adhesive Stains

Believe it or not! White vinegar is one of the best alternatives to traditional adhesive removers. Many professionals use this eco-friendly cleaning staple to dislodge almost all dirt and gunk during a detailed end of lease cleaning Adelaide service. You can use it to remove pet stains, rust stains, mould, mildew and grime from almost all surfaces except natural stone.

It can be a great product for removing water-activated adhesives from hard surfaces. Fill equal parts with vinegar and warm water. Spray the solution on the sticky residue and leave it for 10 minutes. Next, scrub or wipe off the surface gently with a sponge. Rinse and dry the surface to witness a sparkling shine.

7. Olive Oil Can Do Wonders

The combination of olive oil and baking soda is a great solution to clean office furniture and other hardwood surfaces. Olive oil can easily dislodge the gooey stains while maintaining the wood shine. You’ll need to add 1/4 cup of baking soda to boost its efficiency and achieve desired outcomes. It can also be used on tiles, countertops, stainless steel and other delicate surfaces.

How to Eliminate Adhesive Stains Naturally?

tips to Remove Sticky Tape Residue

Wrapping up

Dislodging stubborn sticky residue and adhesives from different surfaces doesn’t have to be challenging. With the help of this guide, you can easily remove gooey stains and maintain the pristine shine of your living abode using all-natural products.