How to Safely Remove Glue Residue

Reviewed by Peter Kendall, Technical Support Engineer (November 2024)

If you're frustrated with stubborn sticker tape and adhesive residue, you're in the right place! This guide will provide you with effective techniques to eliminate adhesive residues from various surfaces. 

Recognising the various types of sticker tape and adhesive residues can help you select the most appropriate removal method. Here are some common types of adhesive residues: 

• Sticky Residue: This is the most prevalent type, often left behind by stickers or tape. It's particularly challenging to remove, especially if it has been on the surface for an extended period.
• Gummy Residue: A more persistent form of adhesive residue found on materials like plastic or glass, leaving behind a sticky film that's tough to remove.
• Greasy Residue: Commonly left by industrial adhesive tapes or labels, greasy residue requires a degreaser or solvent-based cleaner for removal.

Removing adhesive residue is crucial for several reasons: it maintains the surface's appearance and integrity, ensures new adhesives will adhere properly, and prevents potential damage or staining over time. 

Here are some tried-and-tested techniques for removing sticker tape and adhesive residue: 

• Heat: Applying heat can soften the adhesive, making it easier to remove. Use a hairdryer or heat gun to warm the adhesive gently, then peel it off carefully.
• Solvents: Solvents such as rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, or commercial adhesive removers can dissolve the adhesive. Apply a small amount to a cloth or cotton pad, then rub the adhesive gently until it loosens.
• Oils: Natural oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or baby oil can break down adhesive residue. Apply a few drops to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away with a cloth.
• Soapy Water: For less stubborn residue, use a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Dip a cloth or sponge in the soapy water and scrub the adhesive gently until it comes off.
• Scraping Tools: In some cases, using a plastic scraper or credit card can help remove stubborn adhesive residue. Apply gentle pressure while scraping to avoid scratching the surface.

 Always test your chosen method on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the surface. Follow any specific instructions provided by the adhesive or surface manufacturer. 

Wondering how to remove sticky tape residue from different surfaces? These tips should help you handle various materials effectively: 

Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to a cotton ball or soft cloth. Slowly and gently rub the adhesive in a circular motion and the solvent will start to break down the adhesive and loosening it from the surface. Use a dry section of the cloth to wipe the residue off and once it is all removed, clean the glass with a mild glass cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to remove any stubborn residue which has remained.  

Begin by using a flat tool like a plastic scraper or credit card to gently lift as much residue off the product as possible. Avoid using metal tools as they can scratch the surface. Then, mix a bit of mild dish soap with warm water in a small bowl, and dip a sponge, microfibre towel or soft cloth and apply it to the area with the residue. Scrub in gentle circular motions to lift the residue without scratching the area. If you are dealing with extra stubborn residue, consider using a small amount of baby oil or vegetable oil.  

Heat the residue with a hairdryer on a low to medium setting to soften the glue, holding the hairdryer a few inches away and moving in circular motions. Once the adhesive has softened, use a non-metal plastic scraper or credit card to remove it, then wipe away any remaining residue with a cloth dampened in warm soapy water. Lastly make sure to dry the wood surface with a dry cloth as moisture can damage the wood.  

Apply a few drops of cooking oil or baby oil to the adhesive and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oil to penetrate and soften the glue. Then, gently rub the adhesive in circular motions with a soft cloth, paper towel or cotton ball until it starts to break down, then clean the area with mild detergent and water. Plastic scrapers can be used gently for stubborn areas. After the residue has been removed, ensure to dry the area to prevent water spots or rust. 

Test a small, inconspicuous area with rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to ensure it doesn't damage the fabric. If safe, apply rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to a cloth and dab the adhesive gently to avoid pushing the adhesive further into the fabric’s fibres. Let the solvent sit on the adhesive for a few minutes. After the adhesive has started to dissolve use a clean cloth to absorb the loosened adhesive, working from the outside in to prevent spreading it. After it has all been removed, wash the fabric according to its care instructions.  

Follow these safety precautions to avoid accidents or damage while removing sticker tape and adhesive residue: 

• Use protective gloves: Wear protective gloves to shield your hands from potential harm. Adhesive removers can contain harsh chemicals that may irritate or damage the skin. Choose gloves resistant to chemicals and provide a good grip.
• Work in a well-ventilated area: Many adhesive removers emit strong fumes. Ensure you're working in a well-ventilated space, such as an open area or near a window, to minimise exposure to fumes.
• Test in a small area: Before applying any adhesive remover to a larger surface, test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause damage or discolouration.
• Read and follow instructions: Different adhesive removers have varying instructions and precautions. Carefully read and follow the manufacturer's instructions to use the product safely and effectively.

By following these safety measures, you can remove sticker tape and adhesive residue safely without causing harm to yourself or the surface. RS provides a wide range of products to support the removal of adhesive residue, check out our selection here.