How to Remove Sticker Residue from Glass

Use vinegar to remove leftover sticker residue from glass jars and windows.

Sticker adhesive and residue from container labels, stickers, decals and price tags is often difficult to remove. Even after the sticker is gone, residue remains, leaving the item sticky. Scrubbing the item with hot, soapy water is not always enough to remove the residue from glass jars, windows or dishes. Vinegar is inexpensive and eats through the sticky residue, leaving glass shiny and residue-free. It is also safe to use in households with pets, children and on food preparation surfaces.

Things You'll Need

• Hair dryer (optional)
• Metal spatula or plastic scraper
• Dish soap
• Sponge or spray bottle
• Soft cloth or paper towels
• White distilled vinegar

Instructions

1. Wash and dry the glass item to remove dirt. Use hot, soapy water for glass dishes and small items; use a soft cloth or paper towel for windows.

2. Scrape as much of the sticker and residue off as possible with a metal spatula or plastic scraper. Use a hair dryer to heat the sticker before scraping, if desired. The heat will soften the sticker glue and make it easier to scrape.

3. Soak a clean, dry sponge in full-strength, white distilled vinegar. Blot the entire surface containing the sticker residue. Continue blotting the area until it's saturated with vinegar. Alternatively, fill a clean spray bottle with vinegar and spray the surface until it is saturated.

4. Allow the vinegar to soak on the sticker for two to three minutes. Gently rub the sticker and scrape off the residue.

5. Re-treat any sticker residue that remains and wipe it with the vinegar-soaked sponge. Rinse the spot with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an expired, plastic credit card or gift card to scrape the sticker residue and prevent scratching the glass.

• This method also works for removing stickers and residue from smooth plastic, metal, wood and linoleum surfaces.

• Remove stickers and tape stuck on porous surfaces, such as carpets and clothing, by soaking the entire area in vinegar. Pull off as much of the sticker as possible, then use an old toothbrush, comb or stiff-bristled brush to scrub the remaining sticker residue.

• Vinegar also works for removing residue left behind by clear tape, masking tape, packaging tape and duct tape.

References

• "Vinegar: 1001 Practical Household Uses"; L&K Designs; 2007

Resources

• Old-Remedies.com: Remedies for Vinegar Use in Your Home
• VinegarTips.com: 1001 Uses for White Distilled Vinegar