4 Ways, How to Remove Tape Residue Easily. Over time, tape residue can become a nuisance when trying to clean up after a project.
Fortunately, removing this stubborn residue can be done with a few simple steps that won’t damage your surfaces. The method you use will depend on the type of surface you are working with. Read on to discover how to safely and easily remove tape residue with just a few household products.
How Often Should You Remove Tape Residue?
If you discover sticky tape residue on a surface, it’s best to clean it away as soon as possible.
The longer it stays on the surface, the more dust and dirt it can accumulate, making it harder to remove.
How to Remove Sticky Tape Residue from Fabric
For washable fabrics, you can heat a small amount of undiluted distilled white vinegar in the microwave until it is warm, but not boiling.
Dip a sponge into the warm vinegar and squeeze it over the sticky area until the fabric is saturated. The adhesive should start to loosen and roll up, so you can lift it away with a dull knife or spatula’s edge.
For a quicker option, you can use De-solv-it or Goo-Gone instead of white vinegar.
After using either method, apply a dab of heavy-duty laundry detergent to the area and let it sit for about 10 minutes before washing the fabric as usual. Check for any remaining tape residue before putting the fabric in a hot dryer, and repeat the process if necessary.
For dry-clean only fabrics, it is best to take the garment to a professional dry cleaner to remove the residue rather than risking any damage to your delicate clothes.
Removing Tape Residue from Glass: Simple Methods
Ways to Remove Tape Residue From Glass.
If the sticker or residue is hard to remove, apply vegetable oil or peanut butter to the area and cover it with plastic wrap.
Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before using a dull knife or plastic scraper to remove the sticker and residue. Then, clean the glass with glass cleaner.
Alternatively, you can use De-solv-it or Goo-Gone for a quicker solution.
Another method is to apply a few drops of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball or paper towel and saturate the sticker.
After 10 minutes, use a plastic scraper to remove the adhesive. Finally, clean the glass with alcohol and a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
How to Remove Sticky Residue From Metal
Method 1: Saturate with Oil.
Start by saturating the adhesive residue with vegetable oil.
Cover the area with plastic wrap and allow it to soak for 30 minutes. Then, use a plastic scraper and an old cloth to wipe away the residue.
Finally, wash the area with warm soapy water to remove the oil and dry it with a soft cloth.
Note: Avoid using abrasive cleaning powders, steel wool, or sandpaper as they may cause scratches on the metal surface.
Method 2: Apply Heat.
Another option is to use a handheld hair dryer set to medium to heat up the residue.
This will soften the adhesive and make it easier to wipe away.
Method 3: Use WD-40.
Spray a small amount of WD-40 on the sticky residue and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, wipe away the lubricant and the residue.
How to Remove Tape Residue from Painted Surfaces Without Damaging the Paint
Before using any solvent or cleaning product, test it in an inconspicuous space to make sure it does not damage or change the color of the paint.
Use Heat Set a handheld hairdryer to medium heat and apply the hot air to the tape residue for about 15 seconds.
Use a thin plastic scraper or the edge of a credit card to lift the adhesive from the painted surface.
Blow dryer adding heat to tape residue on painted surface and scraped with credit card.
Try Warm Sudsy Water or Warm Vinegar Heat some water and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid.
Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and wring it until it is just damp. Place the warm cloth over the sticky area for about 30 seconds.
Gently rub away the adhesive.
You can also heat a small amount of distilled white vinegar and follow the same steps.
Finish by “rinsing” the area with a clean wet cloth and dry with a soft towel.
White cloth rubbing tape residue on painted surface with sudsy water.
Use an Art Gum Eraser Rub the sticky area with an art gum eraser applying gentle pressure.
The eraser will loosen the adhesive for wiping away with a damp microfiber cloth.
Art gum eraser rubbing tape residue on painted surface.
Try a Commercial Solvent Follow the label directions carefully.
Goo Gone and Un-du are two brands that work well to remove sticky residue from painted surfaces.
*The information is for reference only.