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I have seen my colleagues in the art department use lighter fluid to remove adhesive, but I never thought I would need to try that.
Nowadays, I am obsessive about labels, remnants of old labels or even the sticky residue left behind on used jars. You see, I recycle all my jars, either for jams or for storing stuff, especially salad dressings. You cover the jar and then shake it to emulsify the dressing.
At the end of it all, I throw away the bottle so I don't have to wash it out. I used to soak the jars in water to try to get the labels off but, these days, they stay stubbornly stuck.
How to remove sticker residue?
So I am always on the lookout for stuff that will remove sticky goo.
1. Goo Gone Adhesive Remover, $5.95
There are products such as Goo Gone Adhesive Remover ($5.95 from NTUC Fairprice), but I do not always have it on hand. Honestly, you can get a small bottle and leave it at home - especially if you’re into recycling glass and plastic bottles.
2. 3M Adhesive Remover 6041 Citrus Base, $25.90
Still, I always have orange and lemon peel, which also works. The limonene in citrus fruits cuts through the stickiness. You can also buy cleaning products with orange or lemon in them. While a regular orange or lemon may not do the best job, you’ll find professional citrus adhesive remover products, such as the 3M Adhesive Remover 6041 Citrus Base ($25.90 from Shopee).
3. Rubbing Alcohol, $5.49
I keep rubbing alcohol on hand as well - you can get it at the pharmacy. I dab it on cotton wool (saved from vitamin bottles) to remove stickiness from labels, and also to remove wording left by felt-tip marker pens on containers. You can quite easily buy rubbing alcohol from any pharmacy such as Watsons, or Guardian. You can also get it online from Shopee, such as this Yukare 70% Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol ($5.49 from Shopee).
4. WD-40 Multi-Use, $6.50
I have discovered that penetrant spray WD-40 ($6.50 from Shopee). But be careful when using them on absorbent surfaces such as fabric, plastic or wood. And wait a few minutes after soaking or applying before rubbing off.
This should remove most of the adhesive, but you will still need something like an old bank card to scrape the surface totally clean - don't use your fingernails.
5. Artificial Vinegar, $4.80
Artificial vinegar (which is essentially a synthetic form of vinegar containing acetic acid) can help remove sticky residue, though it may not be as potent as some stronger solvents like acetone or alcohol. Its mild acidity can break down certain adhesives, making it an eco-friendly and safer option for delicate surfaces. Get a 5 litre bottle of AAA Artificial Vinegar ($4.80) from NTUC Fairprice.
6. Nail Polish Remover, $2.73
Nail varnish remover (often containing acetone) can be effective at removing sticky residue, such as the adhesive left behind by labels, stickers, or tape. Acetone is a powerful solvent that breaks down adhesive bonds, making it easier to wipe the residue away. You can easily get two bottles of these old school Nail Polish Remover ($2.73 for 2 bottles) from Shopee.
Part of this article was first published in The Straits Times.