We all use tape for various reasons. Whether it is to repair a leak, a broken piece, hold up decorations or fix a sagging hem, the many types of tape you can find on the market nowadays will undoubtedly help you find a solution to any issue. However, once you remove the tape, what is left behind is a sticky residue all over the surface of whatever it is you used it on.
It is essential how you remove the tape, depending on its type, as well as the materials that the surface is made of. Of course, your main goal is to remove all of the tape, but it is as important to not damage the surface underneath. With a bit of patience and a few products, you can easily remove the sticky residue left behind after the tape.
This article will show you exactly how to do that so keep reading and find the best way to do that.
You should always clean sticky tape residue as soon as possible. The longer you leave it on, the more dust and dirt it will attract. It will be harder to remove in the end. What is more, instant removal will prevent possible surface damage.
You will need:
| sponge | distilled white vinegar |
| plastic scraper | laundry detergent |
| soft-bristled brush | rubbing alcohol |
| microfiber cloth | vegetable oil |
| sink or bucket | plastic wrap |
| hairdryer | glass cleaner |
| art gum eraser | dishwashing liquid |
| paper towels | glue remover |
Removing tape residue from fabric
Remove residue from washable fabrics
Heat up a small amount of white distilled vinegar. Make sure it is hot but not boiling. Dip a sponge into the vinegar and squeeze it out on the fabric until it is saturated. The sticky tape residue will roll off so you will be able to easily scrape it off with a plastic scraper or a spatula.
If you have glue or adhesive remover, you should use it instead of white vinegar. It will help you remove it faster. After treating with either of the methods, dab the area with some heavy-duty laundry detergent. Let it sit for about 10 minutes and rinse with warm water.
Check the fabric and the area which you treated before you wash it or throw it in the dryer. Repeat the steps if you need to. Do not put the clothing in the dryer until all residue is gone.
For dry cleaning only fabrics
If you have some tape residue on clothes that can be dry cleaned only, you best leave their cleaning to professionals. You don’t want to risk damaging your clothes. Taking your clothes to the dry cleaner is the best approach you can choose to take.
How to remove tape residue from glass
Use oil to remove tape residue from glass
If it is hard to remove all of the tape residue, saturate the area with vegetable oil (butter will also work). Cover the area with plastic wrap and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Use a dull knife or a plastic scraper to remove the tape and the residue. Clean your glass with a glass cleaner.
Same as with the fabrics, if you have glue remover accessible, use it on your glass as well. It will help you get rid of the sticker faster.
Use isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
Use some rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball and saturate the area. After doing this, let it soak in for at least 10 minutes. You can use a plastic scraper or an old credit card to remove the rest of the tape residue. Once it is gone, use a microfiber cloth and some more alcohol to leave your glass clean and streak-free.
Remove tape residue from metal
Saturate the residue with oil
Saturate the area with vegetable oil, cover it with plastic wrap and let it sit for at least half an hour. Use a plastic scraper and a cloth in order to remove the sticker. Wash the area with warm soapy water to remove oil and buff the area with a soft cloth.
Pro tip: Do not use abrasive cleaning powder, steel wool, or sandpaper to remove the tape. It may end up scratching the surface of the metal.
Apply heat to clean up the metal
Use a handheld hair dryer to warm up the sticker. The heat will soften the sticky residue, melt it and make it easier to wipe away after.
Use WD-40
Spray the sticky residue with WD-40. Let it sit for a few minutes then wipe the lubricant away along with the residue.
How to remove tape residue from painted surfaces
When cleaning painted surfaces, you should be careful. It is best to test the product you chose to work on an inconspicuous area and make sure it does not cause any harm to the paint.
Use warm water or warm vinegar
Warm up some water, and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Dip a soft cloth in the mixture and wring until just damp. Place the cloth on the sticky area and keep it on for 30 seconds. Gently rub away the adhesive residue.
You can use the same method with a bit of warm vinegar.
Rinse the area using a clean wet cloth and dry with a soft towel.
Use a gum eraser
Gently rub the area with an art gum eraser. It will loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove. Wipe the area away with a damp microfiber cloth.