Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500326
06/24/03

Stickers with Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive


Whatever method you use, first test the
cleaning/removal material in an inconspicuous part of the
surface the label is stuck on the be sure it will not
damage that surface.

Stickers, labels and tapes with pressure-sensitive
adhesive (those that are peeled from a backing or roll,
then pressed in place) can oftentimes be peeled off. The
remaining adhesive can then be rubbed off with your
fingers similar to the way you "thumb-roll" rubber cement
into small balls. If the adhesive is old or has been
exposed to high temperatures and/or humidity, the "thumb-
roll" method does not always work. Try removing as much
of the label or tape as possible with your fingernail or
the dull edge of a knife. The next procedure will depend
on the surface of the household item. It is important to
pretest some of the materials. Sometimes the adhesive can
be removed with a solution of warm water, liquid
dishwashing detergent, and vinegar or ammonia.

This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus.

Go To Top of File        Michigan State University Extension Home Page        Main Page for this Data Base
This information is for educational purposes only. References to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This information becomes public property upon publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise a commercial product or company. MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status. Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director, MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned. This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08. Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03. For more information about this data base or its contents please contact strausc@msu.edu .