What removes sticky residue?

There are endless debates about which products are best at removing sticky residue. While some advocate for solvents such as isopropyl alcohol, others will advocate organic tea tree oil. Still, others advocate using nothing but a clean rag and elbow grease.

The truth is, many substances and methods will work to remove sticky residue left behind by stickers. The main issue is whether or not these will damage the surface underneath. The list below is just some of the many items and methods people swear by:

• Nail polish remover
• Petroleum jelly
• Toothpaste
• Lotion
• Hairspray
• Baby oil (mineral oil)
• Vinegar
• Rubbing alcohol
• Windex
• Baking soda paste
• Lighter fluid
• Kerosene
• WD-40
• Duct tape
• Goof Off goop remover
• Paint thinner
• Rubber cement thinner
• Rubber erasers
• Peanut butter
• Vegetable oil
• Olive oil
• Margarine
• Cooking spray
• Scraping it off with a razor blade
• Mayonnaise
• Goo Gone
• Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
• Furniture polish
• Eucalyptus oil
• Tea tree oil
• Perfume
• Aftershave
• PVC pipe cleaner
• Heating the goo with a hair dryer then wiping off (firmly) with a damp cloth.

In all cases, it couldn’t hurt to clean the surfaces with a lint-free cloth before you attempt any of these methods.