7 Ways to Remove Sticker Residue From Every Surface—Including Martha's Favorite Method

Few things are more frustrating than when you bring home a newly purchased item, only to find that a label or sticker leaves behind stubborn residue when you remove it. Rather than spending time scratching or peeling it off, use one of these easy methods for getting rid of sticker residue, including Martha's go-to method.

Martha's Method for Removing Sticker Residue

Martha's tried-and-true technique for peeling stickers and labels off of items is using a hair dryer. "It loosens the glue and the sticker is easily removed. This can be done on metal, glass, wood, stone, anything—how simple," she says.

1. Turn the hair dryer on.
2. Apply the heat very closely to the sticker for about 30 seconds.
3. Gently peel off the sticker.

How to Remove Sticker Residue With Hot Water

Hot water is ideal for removing sticker residue from non-porous surfaces like glass, plastic, ceramic, or metal. "Do not use it on surfaces sensitive to excessive moisture, such as untreated wood," says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean.

1. Heat the water until hot (don't boil it).
2. Soak a microfiber cloth in the hot water and apply it to the sticker residue.
3. Let the cloth sit on the surface for a few minutes to soften the adhesive.
4. Gently scrub the area with the cloth to remove the residue.
5. Rinse with clean water. 

How to Remove Sticker Residue With Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is safe for removing sticker residue from a handful of surfaces, including glass, plastic, metal and ceramic, says Jennifer Parnell, co-founder of Humble Suds.

1. Soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol and lay it on the surface.
2. Let it soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Gently scrub the area with the cloth to remove the residue.
4. Rinse with clean water. 

How to Remove Sticker Residue With Olive Oil

Olive oil can be used to remove sticker residue from non-porous surfaces, like glass and plastic. "Avoid using this method for porous surfaces or fabrics, as the oil can leave stains that might be difficult to remove," says Sokolowski.

1. Soak the side of the item with the sticker residue in hot water.
2. Apply olive oil to the residue and gently scrub with a sponge or microfiber cloth.
3. Rinse the olive oil with dish soap and hot water.
4. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth.

How to Remove Sticker Residue With Coconut Oil

Like olive oil, coconut oil should only be used on non-porous surfaces. "Avoid any soft stone or unsealed materials," says Parnell.

1. In a bowl, combine equal parts baking soda and coconut oil to create a paste.
2. Rub the paste on the residue and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes.
3. Gently scrub the area with a cloth to remove the residue.
4. Rinse with clean water. 

How to Remove Sticker Residue With White Vinegar

Distilled white vinegar should work well on most hard surfaces, such as glass, plastic, metal, or ceramic, says Sokolowski. Before using it on painted or varnished surfaces, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.

1. Soak a microfiber cloth or sponge in white vinegar.
2. Apply the cloth to the sticker residue and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Scrub the area gently with a cloth or a sponge to remove the residue.
4. Rinse with clean water.

How to Remove Sticker Residue With an Eraser

A rubber eraser can be used on most surfaces, but avoid using it on textured or delicate surfaces, as it might not be as effective or could damage the surface, says Sokolowski.

1. Using a clean rubber eraser, rub it over the sticker residue by applying gentle pressure.
2. Rub the eraser in circular motion until the residue rolls off. 
3. Wipe any eraser residue away.