Removing Paper from Particle Board

A plastic spatula will help remove the paper.

Particle board, also known as chip board, looks like real wood but is not. Particle board is actually a composite of wood materials, such as sawdust. When the wood pieces and other ingredients are combined and molded, the particle board is formed. Because of of the cheap nature of particle boards, items such as paper and stickers often adhere to the surface. Care must be taken when removing these items so that it does not rip the particle board's finish.

Things You'll Need

• 2 washcloths
• Water
• Small plastic spatula
• Vinegar
• Squirt bottle

Instructions

1. Wet a clean washcloth. Wring out any excess moisture and set aside.

2. Pull on any corner of the paper that is stuck to the particle board. Grasp the corner firmly and pull up slowly. If you pull too quickly, the paper will rip, which will make it harder to remove and may damage the appearance of the particle board. Continue to pull on the paper until you no longer feel any give.

3. Press the wet washcloth against the remainder of the paper. Once the paper is saturated, discard the washcloth.

4. Hold the corner of the paper up as you push the flat edge of the plastic spatula underneath it. Scrape the remaining paper away using a quick, back-and-forth motion.

5. Add 1 part vinegar to 1 part water directly into your squirt bottle. Swirl the bottle to mix the ingredients.

6. Spray any leftover paper with the vinegar mixture. Scrape away any remaining paper using a quick back-and-forth motion. Wipe down the particle board when finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to scratch the particle board when using the spatula.

References

• The Vinegar Institute: Uses and Tips