How to Remove Black Tape Residue

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Things You'll Need

  • Plastic scraper

  • Bowl

  • 1 tbsp. dish washing detergent

  • 1 tbsp. white vinegar

  • Sponge

  • Clean cloths

  • Nail polish remover

Electrical tape leaves behind a sticky residue.

Black tape, or electrical tape, is used on electrical cords and other devices. Left long enough, the tape can leave a sticky residue on your electronics and other items. When the tape is removed and the residue is exposed, it acts as a magnet for all kinds of dirt and debris. Avoid this situation by removing the black tape residue completely.

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Step 1

Scrape black tape residue with a plastic scraper to remove as much excess adhesive glue as possible.

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Step 2

Warm soapy water helps remove tape adhesive.

Combine 1 tbsp. dish washing detergent, 1 tbsp. white vinegar and 2 cups warm water in a bowl. Dip a sponge in the adhesive-softening solution. Set the soapy sponge on top of the tape adhesive and leave it there for five minutes to soften and loosen the adhesive.

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Step 3

Rub the sponge over the adhesive to remove as much as possible. Rinse the sponge as the adhesive lifts, and scrub again using the soap and vinegar solution.

Step 4

Pour nail polish remover on a clean cloth. Wipe up any remaining black tape adhesive with the nail polish remover.

Step 5

Wet a clean cloth with water and rinse off the site of the tape adhesive build-up. Dry with a clean cloth.

Tip

Baby oil can also be used to break down the sticky residue from tape adhesive. Follow by removing the oil with an all-purpose cleaner or undiluted vinegar.

Spray tape adhesive residue with WD-40. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping off. Repeat until all the adhesive is gone.

Warning

Always unplug electrical appliances before cleaning tape residue from them.

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