Home Garden

How to Get Adhesive Off of Wood Without a Solvent

Adhesive from stickers, labels or tape can leave a gooey residue on your wood surface that detracts from its appearance. Adhesive that's left unattended attracts dirt and debris, creating a bigger eyesore. Although solvents are often recommended for the removal of adhesive, the harsh chemicals in them can damage your wood surface. Instead, you can use supplies around the home to successfully remove adhesive from wood while protecting the wood's condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Hairdryer
  • Clean cloths
  • Dish-washing detergent
  • White vinegar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Soften the adhesive residue with a hairdryer. Set the hairdryer to the "Low" or "Medium" heat setting. Hold the hairdryer a foot above the wood surface and direct the heat toward the adhesive for one to three minutes.

    • 2

      Moisten a clean cloth with warm water. Wring out the excess liquid.

    • 3

      Add two drops of liquid dish-washing detergent to the damp cloth. Gently scrub the softened adhesive to loosen it. Rub back and forth to cause the adhesive glue to ball up and pull away from the wood.

    • 4

      Wipe the wood surface with another damp cloth to rinse off the dish-washing detergent.

    • 5

      Treat any remaining adhesive residue on the wood surface by scrubbing it off with a cloth dampened with warmed, full-strength vinegar. Use the vinegar to remove the last traces of adhesive.

    • 6

      Rinse the wood surface with a damp cloth. Dry it with another cloth.