If you’ve ever peeled off one adhesive sticker only to have another one stick to it, you know how frustrating that can be! It is challenging because there are so many types of adhesives, and each work differently.
How can you know which solution will best remove the offending adhesive? Thankfully, all hope isn’t lost because we’ve put together this handy guide on what removes adhesive from plastic!
Read More: Does Rubbing Alcohol Remove Adhesive?
What Removes Adhesive from Plastic?
1) Warm Soapy Water
The first thing you should try is warm soapy water. Mix some dish soap with warm water and apply it to the adhesive with a rag.
Rub the area until the adhesive loosens, then wipe it away with a clean cloth. You may need to repeat this process a few times to get all of the adhesive off.
2) Olive Oil
Believe it or not, olive oil can actually be used to remove adhesive from plastic. All you need to do is pour a small amount of olive oil onto the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes.
After a few minutes, use a soft cloth to wipe away the adhesive. Repeat this process as necessary until the adhesive is completely removed.
3) Rubbing Alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a common solvent for removing adhesive residue from plastic.
Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or cloth and rub it over the affected area.
You may need to use a little elbow grease to get the job done, but rubbing alcohol is usually effective at removing adhesive.
Just be sure to test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the plastic.
4) Baking Soda and Oil
Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to remove adhesive from plastic. Make a paste with baking soda and oil, then apply it to the sticky area and let it sit for a few minutes.
After a few minutes, use a cloth to wipe away the paste, and the adhesive should come right off!
5) Plastic Scraper
A plastic scraper is one of the easiest ways to remove adhesive from plastic. All you need is a dull knife or a credit card:
- It would be best if you scored the adhesive with the scraper.
- You need to apply pressure to the scraper as you move it across the surface of the adhesive.
- You need to scrape off the loosened adhesive.
- It would be best if you cleaned off any residual adhesive with a cloth or paper towel.
6) Vinegar or lemon juice
You can remove adhesive from plastic using vinegar or lemon juice. Apply either one to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, use a cloth to wipe away the adhesive. You may need to repeat this process several times to remove the adhesive. If you’re having trouble removing the adhesive, try using a little cooking oil.
Last Opinion
You’ve learned four ways to remove adhesive from plastic by now. But which one is the best? Your method may depend on the type of adhesive and plastic you’re dealing with.
Test a small, hidden area before attempting your project with a new method. It will take some time, but you should be able to get the sticky stuff off without much difficulty.
