The question of how to remove stickers is common because certain adhesives and labels can put up a fight! Luckily, the only thing more stubborn than sticky residue is yours truly, and I’ve tested dozens of different theories on how to remove sticky labels from various surfaces over the years.

As it turns out, several effective ways exist to eliminate sticker residue. Some methods work better on specific surfaces; others use different ingredients.

To remove sticky labels from glass, plastic, or metal, soak the item in a sink full of warm water and 1/2 cup of washing soda for 30 minutes — the label and sticky residue will slide right off!
To remove sticker residue, tape residue, and other types of adhesive, spread a generous amount of oil, peanut butter, or mayonnaise on the residue and leave it for one hour, after which the residue will wipe off easily.

The Magic of Washing Soda

Not only does washing soda work wonders in removing sticky labels from glass bottles, but it’s also a versatile solution for tackling residue on various surfaces. Fill your sink with warm water, add approximately 1/2 cup of washing soda, give it a good stir, and let the item soak for 30 minutes. Watch in amazement as the sticker or label effortlessly slides off!

Peanut Butter Power

Surprisingly, peanut butter’s oil content makes it an effective adhesive dissolver. Generously spread a thick layer of peanut butter over the sticker and allow it to sit for about an hour. Then, with a damp cloth, easily wipe away the sticker residue.

Hairdryer Heat

Need to know how to remove sticky residue from plastic? A hairdryer can be your ally. Apply heat from the hair dryer to the sticker for approximately 30 seconds, and watch as the residue loosens. If the sticker is still stubborn, another 30 seconds of heat should do the trick.

Pencil Eraser Rescue

When the paper part of a sticker is gone but sticky residue remains, reach for a pencil eraser. The rubbery texture grips the adhesive, allowing you to scrape it off effortlessly.

Rubbing Alcohol

You can rely on various alcohol-based products, such as rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, or even vodka, to eliminate sticker adhesive. Soak a paper towel in your preferred alcohol-based solution, wrap it around the sticker, and let it sit for approximately 30 minutes. Then, effortlessly wipe away the sticker and adhesive.

Baking Soda and Coconut Oil

When facing stubborn stickers, harness the power of baking soda and coconut oil (or any oil you have on hand, like olive oil or vegetable oil). The oil penetrates and loosens the paper and adhesive, while the baking soda aids in scrubbing away the mess.
Create a paste by combining enough coconut oil and baking soda, smear it over the sticker, and allow it to sit for an hour. Then, scrub with a sponge or brush.

Mayonnaise

Surprisingly, mayo is another oily substance that proves helpful in sticker removal. Apply a thick layer of mayonnaise to the sticker, let it sit for approximately 30 minutes, and then easily wipe away the sticker and adhesive from the surface.

Razor Blade

Manual sticker removal can be done using a razor scraper or an X-ACTO knife for glass surfaces. Hold the blade at an angle and gently slide it under the sticker’s edge. Utilize the lifted edge to peel off the sticker, working in sections if needed.
Repeat until the entire sticker is gone. Please note that while this method is ideal for glass, it may not be suitable for other surfaces, especially painted ones. To minimize the risk of scratches, consider using a plastic razor blade.

WD-40

WD-40 is a versatile solution that can save you from sticky situations, including stubborn stickers. Spray WD-40 onto the sticker, price tag, or sticky label, and allow it to soak for a while. Then, effortlessly remove the sticker and any sticky residue.

White Vinegar

Soak a washcloth in white vinegar, wrap it around the sticker area, and let it soak for approximately 30 minutes. The sticker should easily wipe off afterward. White vinegar is also effective for eliminating sticker residue from clothing and fabrics.

Lemon Essential Oil

Citrus oils, like lemon essential oil, are excellent for combating sticky residue. Apply a drop or two of lemon essential oil directly to the affected area, let it sit for about 10 minutes, and then wipe away the sticker and adhesive. Avoid using lemon oil on plastic surfaces, as it may cause damage.

Freezer

Place the item in the freezer for a couple of hours to remove stickers from clothing and fabric. Once hardened, pick off as much of the sticker as possible.
Moisten the spot with water, add a drop of mild dish soap, and use a microfiber cloth to rub away the remaining residue. Finally, launder the item as usual.

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