How to Remove Duct Tape Residue Using These 5 Easy Ways

Duct tapes are excellent adhesives you have to invest. They have the durability and strength that are ideal for DIY projects. Plus, it is safe to use on different surfaces. However, a downside here is that it is challenging to remove the residue.

That’s why we have provided several ways on how to remove duct tape residue that leaves behind every duct tape.

Unlike other taps, a duct tape comes with a rubber adhesive. That’s why it sticks quickly. The rubber stays flexible than the plastic resins on different tapes. But, it can dry up if you leave it on a surface for a long time.

Another reason why the bond remains firm is that you have to apply it on thick coats at the back of the tape. That means that they stay behind when you take away the tape. Then, it leaves a mess.

Some manufacturers of adhesives offer products which when soaked into the residue, it will be easy for you to remove them. If you do not want to purchase this one, you may consider spraying a metal lubricant. It may weaken the adhesive bond, which allows you to rub the duct tape on surfaces like metal, glass, and wood.

Also, for a natural approach, you may use coconut oil and olive oil to loosen the stickiness of the adhesive. Then, it will make the residue supple for effortless removal, especially on the glass.

You have to add a small amount of hand sanitizer to the metal surface. Let it stay for about five minutes. Try to rub off the sticky clumps as much as you can with your tweezers or fingernails. Remember not to scratch the surface of the metal. Scrub off the remains with a rough cloth. If the metal is sturdy enough, you may use a scouring pad.

Ensure that your workplace has proper ventilation before you do this method. If you have an unfinished wood, put nail polish remover on the affected part. If it has paint all over the surface, you have to use household oil, including olive oil or mineral. Wait for the polish or oil to break in the dry remains. If the residue dries up completely, you may want to let the oil soak 24/7.

When the gunk moistens, try to scrape off the excess using a spatula, credit card, and paint scraper. Wipe off the residue and grease with a wet towel. Bear in mind that you may try this strategy more than once.

When you have adhesive on the carpet, getting rid of it on a soft area may be quite tricky. Experts recommend that you have to work in short lengths along the residue, which is not more than six inches per area.

You may consider using a reliable cleaner that is safe to apply on the carpet, including the WD-40. Try spraying it onto the remains and soak it for around twenty minutes. Wear your protective rubber gloves and slowly rub your fingers on the carpet or rub to weaken the residue. Rub your fingers using a clean cloth to get rid of the bits of adhesive from the rug. You may move on to another section.

When you have loosened up the residue, apply some shampoo intended for carpets over the affected parts. You may also try washing your hands with a wet cloth. Utilize your vacuum cleaner when your carpet dries entirely.

The appearance of your mirrors or windows may get ruined by duct tape. So, it is best to get the sticky adhesive off as soon as you can. You can do this by gently scraping the remains with a razor blade or a putty knife.

For the uncoated surface, you may put a small amount of acetone. Then, slowly wipe it onto the duct tape residue. On the other hand, for a coated surface, you may use vegetable oil or window cleaner. Soak the cloth in the water. Then, wipe the glass surface to get rid of the remaining traces using the oil or acetone.

Take note that you should start with the mildest approach first in removing the duct tape residue. You can use chemicals only as your last resort. Also, try moisturizing the old duct tape to make the process easy.

Also, you may heat the surface up. But, you need to keep your hair dryer on the lowest setting. Hold it still over the remains for a couple of seconds. When you opt to use rubbing alcohol, you can do so if you are in a hurry. It works fast and can even leave a smooth and shiny surface. It does not have oily bits, unlike other cleaning products.

Duct tape may have saved you a few times when you want quick fixes to your DIY projects at home. But, it can leave behind a sticky residue that is hard to remove on other surfaces. However, you can get rid of the annoying duct tape remains once and for all!

All you have to do is to choose which method suits your needs. Follow the strategies mentioned above for a residue-free, smooth surface that may seem that an adhesive has never been there before!