How to Get Decal Glue Off Fiberglass

Decal stickers or labels stuck on your fiberglass surface, such as your bathtub or windows, can leave sticky residue and paper pieces detracting from the appearance of your surface. Since fiberglass scratches easily, you must exercise care when removing adhesive decal glue. The use of home remedies allows you to pick supplies that are safe for your fiberglass but also effective at removing the sticky residue and any remaining bits of decal paper.

Things You'll Need

• Microwave-safe bowl
• 1 tsp. dishwashing detergent
• 1 tbsp. white vinegar
• Spoon
• Sponge
• Baby oil
• Credit card
• Clean cloth

Instructions

1. Place 1 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 tsp. dishwashing detergent and 1 tbsp. white vinegar. Heat the solution in your microwave for 15 to 30 seconds until the mixture is warm. Remove from the microwave and stir with a spoon.

2. Dip a sponge in the warm, soapy solution and apply it to the decal glue on your fiberglass surface. Allow the soap and vinegar mixture to soak into the decal glue for 10 minutes. This helps loosen the glue, making it easier to remove.

3. 

   Sponges are safe for fiberglass because you clean with them without leaving scratches.

   Scrub your fiberglass surface with your clean sponge to remove the decal glue. Rinse your sponge to wash away the glue and continue to scrub, removing as much glue as you can.

4. Wipe a little baby oil onto any remaining decal glue. Scrape off the remaining glue using the edge of a credit card. Dampen your clean cloth with a little vinegar and wipe the surface of your fiberglass to clean off the oil and any last trace of decal glue.

Tips & Warnings

• A warm compress helps soften and loosen decal glue on a flat surface.

• Substitute mineral oil or cooking oil to help break down the decal glue so it can be scraped off.

• Don't use abrasive cleansers to remove glue or any other stains from fiberglass as they will leave tiny scratches in the surface of the fiberglass.

References

• University of Kentucky Extension: Removing Stickers and Labels
• Good Housekeeping: Heloise Hints: Removing Stickers on Glass
• Reader's Digest: 150+ Household Uses for Vinegar: Unglue Stickers, Decals and Price Tags