How to Remove Sticker
Residue From Any Surface

From brand-new toys, electronics, and dishes to great finds at the thrift store, it seems like everything has a sticker. Whether it’s a price tag or a manufacturer’s label, most of us remove them immediately—but dealing with the sticker residue can be a pain. These things are called stickers for a reason, after all! Thanks to our field-tested tips for how to remove sticker residue, you’ll have enough firepower to get rid of the sticky stuff for good.

Removing Adhesive Residue: Safety Tips

No matter what remover you use, test an inconspicuous spot before you dive in. Have a soapy cloth or sponge nearby to wipe away the cleaning residue. We also suggest wearing disposable gloves and protecting your workspace. If you’re working on a table or countertop, cover it in a newspaper before proceeding. Because The Maids® is one of the only house cleaning services to clean for health, we recommend safe and natural cleaners. When learning how to get sticker residue off, use DIY eco-friendly cleaners you make at home.  

Learning how to get rid of the sticky residue on most surfaces is simple with the right tools and tips from the pros. Sticker adhesive is made to stay stuck, so getting it unstuck from new dishes or a laptop can be frustrating. While it’s tempting to grab a razor blade and some paint thinner for a full-on attack on stickers and labels, that’s too risky. Sharp tools and harsh chemicals can often do more harm than good! 

How to Remove Sticker Residue From Glass 

Get as much sticker residue off with your fingers by rolling the adhesive into clumps and pulling them off. When you’ve removed most of the adhesive, use one of the following techniques to remove the remaining sticker residue. Here’s how to get sticker residue off windows, mirrors, and dishes using commercial glass cleaner alternatives.

Hot Water And Dish Soap

If you have sticker residue on items you can wash, fill your kitchen sink with hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Drop your bottles, jars, or other items in and let them soak for about 30 minutes. The stickers and the adhesive should fall right off, and any residue can be removed with a damp microfiber cloth.

Distilled White Vinegar

White vinegar is a safe and natural cleaner, deodorizer, and adhesive remover you can use on many surfaces. Soak a paper towel in vinegar and cover the sticky spot. Let the vinegar soak for a few minutes to dissolve the adhesive, then scrape it off with a credit card. Wipe off the vinegar and loose adhesive with a damp cloth.   

How to Remove Sticker Residue From Metal

When learning how to remove adhesive residue from metal, play it safe. Metal cups, decor, and utensils are manufactured using different metals and finishes. Chemical solvents can damage certain metals, and abrasives can leave marks. Instead of turning to harsh ingredients, turn to your kitchen cabinet for safe and healthy adhesive removers.  

Vegetable Oil

Pour a small amount of vegetable oil onto the adhesive residue and let it sit for five minutes. Use a credit card or your fingernail to gently remove the residue in layers, working slowly to prevent damage. Remove the oil and adhesive with hot, soapy water and rinse the area. Use a dry microfiber cloth to dry the metal, preventing spotting and rust. 

Baking Soda 

Rub baking soda onto the damp adhesive to make a paste if there is still a sticky residue. Let the baking soda paste sit for five minutes to break down the adhesive. Baking soda is a natural cleaner and a mild abrasive, so it’s easy to scrub away the remaining sticker residue. Wash the area with a soapy cloth and wipe off the cleaning residue with a damp cloth.

How to Get Sticker Residue Off Wood

Cleaning sticker adhesive from wood is trickier than removing it from glass or metal. Cabinetry and furniture are made with various woods and finishes, so selecting a safe removal method is essential. Here are two proven methods for removing adhesive residue using everyday household products. If you need to know how to get sticker residue off wood flooring, check out this hardwood floor cleaning guide. 

Dish Soap

Liquid dish soap and warm water are ideal for removing sticker residue from finished wood. Use a soapy microfiber cloth to soak the sticker residue and let it sit for two minutes. Gently scrub the residue, then remove it with your fingernail or a credit card. Wipe off the adhesive and soap residue with a damp cloth, then dry the area with a dry microfiber cloth.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol dissolves sticker residue without harming unfinished wood. Soak a cloth with rubbing alcohol, lay it on the adhesive, and wait five minutes. Use the same cloth to gently remove the remaining residue. There’s no need to wash and dry the area because the alcohol will evaporate. 

How to Remove Adhesive Residue From Plastic

Knowing how to get rid of sticky residue on plastic can mean the difference between a ruined item and a smooth, clean finish. It’s essential to know that plastics aren’t as durable as glass, so proceed with caution. Whatever you use when learning how to remove sticker residue from plastic, clean gently.

Cooking Oil

Vegetable-, Canola, and other cooking oils will loosen the adhesive without damaging the plastic. Dab a generous amount of cooking oil onto the sticker or sticker residue and let it sit for five minutes. Use soapy water to wash off the dissolved adhesive and oil, then rinse the item with hot water.

Peanut Butter

The oils in this sandwich favorite dissolve adhesives on plastic, wood, and most other surfaces without causing damage. It’s also the best solution for removing sticky messes like kids’ slime from hair and fabric. Dab peanut butter on the sticker residue and let it sit for five minutes. Clean off the adhesive and peanut butter with a soapy cloth and rinse the item with hot water. 

The Maids: Removing Dirt, Germs, and Sticky Residue Since 1979

Now that you know how to remove sticker residue from just about anything, you’ll never fear the stickiness again! Whether you rely on our handy housekeeping guides or invest in house cleaning services, The Maids makes cleaning easier.  

Discover what a healthy approach to cleaning can mean for your home and family when you get your personalized cleaning quote today.