How to Remove Old Masking Tape From Wood

Tape is available in a variety of materials and colors.

Masking tape has long been used to secure one item to another. Masking tape was originally a light beige. However, in recent years companies have produced masking tape in a variety of colors. Many teenagers use masking tape to hang posters and pictures of the latest heartthrob on their wall. Masking tape is also used as an alternative to painter's tape. Unfortunately, old masking tape that was left on wood surfaces for long periods of time can seem impossible to remove.

Things You'll Need

• Hairdryer
• Rubbing alcohol
• Soft cloth
• Water displacing spray

Instructions

1. Plug a hairdryer into an electrical outlet. Set it to a low or medium heat setting. Turn on the hairdryer.

2. Hold the hairdryer 4 inches away from the old masking tape. The heat will soften the old masking tape adhesive, making removal easier.

3. Pull the old masking tape away from the wood slowly. Keep applying heat to the masking tape as you pull if off the wood.

4. Continue pulling the old masking tape slowly while applying heat until you have removed all masking tape from the wood.

5. Apply rubbing alcohol to a soft cloth. Rub the area of the wood surface in a gently circular manner. The rubbing alcohol will remove the adhesive residue that the tape left on your wood surface. Alternatively, use water-displacing spray instead of rubbing alcohol.

Tips & Warnings

• When using masking tape, remove it as soon as possible for easier removal.

References

• Ron Haselton's Housecalls: How to Remove Stubborn Masking Tape
• Ask The Builder: Masking Tapes
• TipNut: 30 Helpful Items to Remove Sticky Adhesive Goo