We've all been there.
Arriving home to unwrap a package we've just purchased only to find ourselves in a war against all the packaging and stickers.
It's frustrating enough to scrape and try to wash them away without damaging the item but sometimes after they're gone, an oily residue remains.
There are many commercial products on retail shelves that will help you with sticker removal. However, many of these contain nasty chemicals and if you're not careful, some can even remove the finish from the product.
Here are a few chemicalfree remedies that have been passed down to me over the years. Many of these have been around for a long time but I have found them, in most cases, to work equally as well as commercial cleaners.
Vinegar
Good old-fashioned vinegar really is a staple item that must be in everyone's pantry. Many retail price stickers can be removed with this product simply by soaking the stickers in vinegar for approximately five minutes and then gently rubbing them off with a soft cloth.
Peanut Butter
You're probably thinking peanut butter? But yes, the oil in the peanut butter often dissolves the sticker residue if you apply it with a butter knife and leave it on for approximately five minutes. The only downside to this is that it can make a bit of a mess.
Hair Dryer
Did you know a simple hair dryer's heat in many cases could remove a price sticker? Simply apply the heat directly to the sticker for one minute or less and then let the glass cool. Once the glass is cool, peel the sticker off.
Hot Water
Yes, even hot water can do the trick most of the time. Simply soak the item in hot water for three minutes or so, then remove the sticker.
If all else fails, then one must go to a good commercial cleaner. My favorite is the Magic Eraser. I have found, in extreme cases, that this is my go-to remedy.
Barb Lunter is a freelance writer with a passion for home decor, entertaining and floral design. [email protected] lunter.ca
