How to Remove Glue Residue From Windows

Don't let stubborn glue residue ruin your view.

Removing price tags, decorative stickers or decals from windows can be frustrating and may seem like an impossible task. If you've managed to remove the sticker from the window but the stubborn glue residue left behind won't budge, don't give up. Fortunately, you can use safe products that will help you remove the stubborn glue residue from the window without a lot of effort or frustration. Be patient. Removing glue residue from windows requires not elbow grease, but time.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Clean cloths
• Citrus-based adhesive remover or degreaser
• White vinegar

Instructions

1. Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands. Soak a corner of a clean, soft cloth with a citrus-based adhesive remover or degreaser. Citrus-based adhesive removers are water-soluble, low odor, and fairly simple to use. Citrus-based adhesive removers are available in either liquid, gel or paste form, but paste is most effective on upright surfaces such as windows.

2. Rub the adhesive remover into the glue, then leave the adhesive remover on the glass until the glue is softened. Read the container label for more information about the time required to dissolve glue. Don't attempt to remove the glue before the adhesive remover has had time to work.

3. Remove the dissolved adhesive with a soft cloth. Clean the glass using a soft cloth and a spray glass cleaner. Alternatively, wash glass with a mixture of 1/2 white vinegar and 1/2 warm water.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use steel wool, dish scrubbers or any abrasive surfaces to remove residue, as the abrasives can scratch the glass.

References

• Ask The Builder: Adhesive Remover
• Free Window Cleaning Tips: How To Remove Decals From Window Glass
• Mrs. Clean: Make Your Own Glass & Window Cleaner