Removing stickers or glue from a window without scratching
Insurance sticker, Christmas decorations or price tags... Does the glue resist? Here are the natural solvents that work.
Recommended Materials
- Hair dryer
- Cooking oil (or baby oil)
- Denatured alcohol
- Window scraper
Steps to follow
Step 1
Start by heating the sticker with a hair dryer set to hot. The heat softens the glue and makes the plastic more flexible. Try to peel it off gently with your fingernail or a plastic blade by pulling slowly.
Step 2
If glue residues remain (the hardest part) or if the label tears: generously soak a cloth or cotton ball with cooking oil (sunflower, olive) or baby oil. Rub the glue with the oil.
Step 3
Fat dissolves glue (it's a chemical reaction, 'like dissolves like'). Leave the oil on for 10 to 15 minutes so it penetrates well.
Step 4
If it still resists (very strong glues): denatured alcohol, rubbing alcohol or acetone (nail polish remover) are radical on glass. Warning: acetone melts plastic (PVC frames) and paint! Apply it only on the glass with a cotton swab or a small precise cloth.
Step 5
The window scraper (razor blade) is very effective for finishing the job on a wet flat surface (with soapy water or window cleaner). Pass the blade flat to scrape off the last residues without scratching.
Step 6
Then clean the window with classic window cleaner or vinegar water to remove the greasy film left by the oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
What about double glazing ?
No problem, the glass is the same. The heat of the hair dryer is not likely to damage the double glazing if you don't stay in the same place for 1h.
Eau écarlate (stain remover) ?
Yes, it is an excellent stain remover for glues and adhesive traces, but it is a very chemical and volatile product, you must ventilate the room well.
Precautions
- Never use the green side of the sponge (irreversible scratches).
- Protect PVC joinery from acetone.
