Home Improvement

How To Remove Sticker Residue From Home Windows

3 min read

Whether your little one has turned your window into a lifesize sticker book or holiday decorations have left sticky residue, there are few things more frustrating than trying to remove stickers from glass. 

Don’t stress, though! We have 5 easy methods to remove stickers and sticky residue from your windows. You can find products specifically for this purpose in the household cleaners section of most stores (we recommend a product called Goof Off), but there are several ways to get the job done with things you probably already have in your cabinet.

Cleaning double hung window

Five Ways to Remove Stickers and Glue Off Glass

No matter which method you choose, you’ll need something to scrape the adhesive off of the glass. We recommend using a credit card or plastic dish scraper. Avoid using metal, since it’s more likely to scratch the glass which can lead to future cracks. Below are five ways to remove stickers and glue off your glass windows.

1. Apply Heat to the Glass

If the sticker is intact, using heat is one of the easiest ways to remove it. What do you use to apply heat? Your blow dryer! The heat from the blow dryer will loosen the adhesive, making it easy to peel or scrape right off. Using your blow dryer on medium-high heat, simply hold it a few inches from the sticker and apply heat for a minute or two. If it doesn’t come off easily after that amount of time, you can apply heat for another minute or so or try another one of the methods below.

2. Use Soap & Warm Water

This is one of the most universal cleaning solutions because it works for so many things. To remove a sticker from a glass or mug, you’d soak it in a sink full of dish soap and warm or hot (not boiling) water. Although you can’t exactly soak your window, you can soak a sponge or cloth in your soap solution and apply it to the window for 20-30 seconds. After applying the soapy water, try scraping the sticker or remaining adhesive off of your window. Repeat as many times as necessary to remove the rest of the sticker.

3. Apply A Lubricant or Oil

Almost any household lubricant will break down sticker adhesive, making it easier to scrape off. Don’t have anything labeled “lubricant” in your arsenal? No problem! You can use a cooking oil like olive, coconut or canola oil. Simply apply a small amount to the sticker, leave for up to 5 minutes then use your scraping tool to scrape the sticker off.

4. Mix Up a DIY Paste

You probably have all the ingredients you need to make a DIY adhesive remover: baking soda, coconut oil (or any cooking oil) and orange or eucalyptus essential oil (optional). Simply mix two tablespoons of oil with one tablespoon of baking soda and a few drops of your essential oil. Apply to the sticker, let sit for several minutes then rub until the sticker is gone. The coconut oil and essential oils work to loosen the adhesive while the baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive to help remove the sticky residue. Wipe clean with a damp cloth and glass cleaner.

5. Apply Rubbing Alcohol to the Glass

When the sticker is gone but some adhesive remains, it’s time to pull out the isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Rubbing alcohol actually dissolves the adhesive, which should remove all traces of sticker residue. This foolproof method is also simple: just apply a small amount to a cloth or sponge and rub the adhesive until it’s gone. Clean the spot with a glass cleaner and enjoy your nice, clean window!

Trust Your Home to Window World of Huntsville

If you’re in the market for new windows, doors or siding, make Window World of Huntsville your first choice. With professional installation and our best-in-class warranty, you’ll love the peace of mind as much as you love your home’s new look. Get started by requesting your free estimate today!

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