Getting sticky label residue off without damage

Sticker, tape and glue gunk off hard surfaces, and how to check it's safe first.

Getting sticky label residue off without damage means testing a hidden spot first, then spraying a citrus adhesive remover like De-Solv-it Multi-Purpose Cleaner onto the residue, leaving it for 1 minute and wiping it off. If a film is left behind, rinse with warm soapy water. The test matters because it's a strong cleaner and it will mark some surfaces.

How do I know it won't wreck my surface?

Pick a spot nobody will see, like the back edge or underneath. Spray it, wait 1 minute, wipe, then let it dry and have a proper look in good light. If the colour, shine or finish has changed, stop there and try something else.

The maker is clear about where it shouldn't go, and I'd take them at their word.

Surface	What the maker says
Hard surfaces, general use	Spray, leave for 1 minute, wipe clean, rinse with warm soapy water if needed
Painted surfaces	Test in an inconspicuous spot first. It will remove wet oil-based paint
Plastics	Can turn some plastics milky, so test first
Suede, leather, silk, unstained wood	Don't use it, it will stain them
Untreated concrete, terracotta tiles	Don't use it on porous surfaces like these

Is there anything that makes it not work?

Don't dilute it with water. The maker says it turns to a white sludge and stops working, so use it straight from the bottle. Give it a good shake first. To get the trigger going, twist the locking tab clockwise until it lines up with the vertical slot, then squeeze a few times to prime it. Push the tab back up and twist anti-clockwise to lock it again.

What if the label is really stubborn?

Spray it again and give it another minute, rather than scrubbing hard and scratching what's underneath. If there's a thick lump of glue, lift the edge with a plastic scraper or an old card, not a knife. It's fine to do this in a few goes.

Wear gloves if your hands are going to be in it for a while, and if you get any in your eyes, flush with water for 15 minutes.

What do I wipe with before I stick something new there?

If you're putting a hook, sign or anything else on the same spot, the surface needs to be clean and dry first. Isopropyl alcohol is what people grab for that. Spray it on, wipe with a clean lint-free cloth, and let it dry before you apply the adhesive.

It's flammable, so keep it away from open flames, and the maker says to wear gloves and eye protection. Test plastics first, because it's not recommended on them without a trial. This one is pick up from the shop in Strathalbyn or our local delivery.

Still not sure about your surface?

If you're sure now, the cleaner is on the website. If you're not, ring me on (08) 8536 4333 or bring in a photo of the surface or the gunk and we'll talk you through it.

Cheers,
Candeece