How to Remove Decals

Window without Decals

You've signed the papers on your new home and you're getting it ready for the big moving day. As you prepare to clean the windows, you realize that the previous owner plastered permanent decals on the glass! You try peeling them off but no luck. You're desperate. You'll be relieved to learn it's not too difficult to remove decals. Within 30 minutes, they will be a hing of the past.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar Paper towels Plastic putty knife or old credit card Rubbing alcohol

Instructions

1. Saturate a paper towel with white vinegar. You want it almost dripping to get the best results.

2. Plaster the paper towel onto the glass, making sure to cover the entire decal. The wetness will allow the paper towel to cling to the glass. Press it down firmly to remove any air bubbles. Allow the paper towel to remain in place for 10 minutes.

3. Remove the paper towel. Gently pry an edge of the decal with a plastic putty knife held almost flat against the glass. If the edge doesn't come up easily, reapply the paper towel and leave on for another 10 minutes.

4. Carefully pull up the decal, using the putty knife as before and being careful not to scratch the glass.

5. Wipe the area with a paper towel dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.

6. Wash the entire window as usual.

Tips & Warnings

• If the decal is on a painted surface such as a vehicle, soak a paper towel with water. Use a blow dryer on high heat 2 inches from the towel for 3 minutes to lift the adhesive.

• If the decal is on the rear window of a vehicle, be careful not to tear the defroster lines when removing the decal.