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How to remove adhesive from plastic: 5 DIY methods

by Dianne Drinkwater 02/24/2025

hand in pink rubber glove holding yellow spray bottle pointed right image text How to remove adhesive from plastic 5 DIY methods

Sticky labels are a fact of modern life, so it’s important to know how to remove adhesive from plastic. While label removal can be tricky on any material, plastic surfaces are often the most stubborn when it comes to the leftover adhesive residue.

Luckily, there are some DIY adhesive removers you might already have at home. Here are five ways to get rid of sticky glue residue:

Warm water & dish soap

The combination of warm water and dish soap works wonders for a wide variety of household messes, glue residue included. Fill a large bowl with warm or hot tap water and add liquid dishwashing soap. Submerging the object works best, but you can also apply the soapy solution with a sponge to break down the adhesive bonds.

Cooking oil

Cooking oil is another DIY adhesive remover you already have in your kitchen. Canola oil, olive oil, avocado oil or any other oil you cook with are gentle solutions for removing sticky residue. Simply apply a dab of oil to a paper towel or cotton ball and apply it to the affected area. In about ten minutes, you should be able to remove glue residue quickly and easily.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a superstar substance for home cleaning remedies, and it also works well to remove sticker residue. While vinegar will dissolve the sticky stuff, it’s harmless to most plastics. However, avoid using vinegar to remove adhesive from rubber surfaces, as the acidity can cause damage.

Nail polish remover

The active ingredient in nail polish remover is acetone, a powerful chemical that can break down even the toughest acrylic paints and lacquers. While nail polish remover can be too harsh for some plastics, tougher grades like polypropylene are strong enough to withstand the acetone. Check for a number 5 recycling symbol to make sure your plastic is acetone safe.

Rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a standard disinfectant found in most household first aid kits. However, its cleaning properties also dissolve sticker residue within minutes. Soak a piece of paper towel or cotton ball in isopropyl alcohol and place it on the sticky patch. In about five minutes, you should be able to wipe away the remains of any glue residue.

infographic article summary for How to remove adhesive from plastic article

If none of these methods work on your sticky residue situation, you can always try a store bought adhesive removal solution. Check your local hardware or craft store to find the best option for your cleaning project.

About the Author
Author

Dianne Drinkwater

Dianne is a full time, full service, state licensed Realtor®, member of Northeast Florida Regional Association of Realtors® (NEFAR), St. Augustine/ St.Johns County Board of Realtors, National Association of Realtors® (NAR), Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR), and Northeast Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service And St. Augustine/St. Johns (MLS), Shearwater Certified, and Military on the Move Designation.

She provides a unique blend of leadership, sales acumen, project management, technology, and world class customer relation skills to enhance Watson Realty Corporation's values in the real estate sales and mortgage marketplace. She is a decisive take action solution-oriented professional with 25+ years of progressive business experience who efficiently utilizes technology to improve results. She has lived in the St. Augustine/Jacksonville area since 2005 and has seen the area continue to flourish and stays well informed of future growth plans within Northeast Florida. 

Let's take a look at the lighter side of Dianne. She loves life is artistic loves music, the arts, yoga and genealogy! She loves to explore and hates to be bored. She loves the outdoors, especially plant life and wildlife. She has been a Master Gardener in Florida and Maine; as a photography enthusiast she has the eye to spot the perfect shot, which spills over to the photos she makes of the properties she markets AND frequently hires the best specialized real estate photographers/drone and videographers who make the difference in the sale. And, she loves to share her knowledge of the local real estate market and all aspects of the process to guide you through each step as a coach rather than a salesperson. 

So, let's sum it up. Buying or selling your home is an important life decision. Reasons can vary greatly from change of lifestyle, to relocation or life challenges. You need someone you can trust, count on, respect and help shoulder the stress, anxiety and time commitment involved. Doesn't this sound like someone you want working for you? 

So, what's the next step? Contacting Dianne of course. It is all about YOUR needs, goals, timeline and DREAMS! She's here to help you achieve them and she looks forward to hearing from you. 

What are you looking for in a Realtor? - Someone who will really listen to your wants and needs? Someone who will expertly market your home until the SOLD sign adorns your front lawn or if you are a buyer tirelessly researches your wish list to find that perfect home? - How about someone who will always be honest, holds ethics in high regard as a realtor, who works aggressively to get you the best price for your home and someone who knows the market? 

Selling or buying a home is a partnership with your trusted advisor- Dianne Drinkwater