24Jun
How to Remove Double Sided Tape
6 Easy Options to Remove Double Sided Tape
Double sided tape is a very useful product to have around the home, but successfully removing it can prove to be a real problem. The best method of removing double sided tape will depend on the type of surface it’s stuck to, and may require a little trial and error. Keep reading for some useful tips and suggestions on how to remove double sided tape.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER:
- Please keep children away whilst performing any of these removal techniques.
- Ensure all products used below are stored away after use, in a childproof cabinet or locked storage unit.
- Try any of these methods on a small inconspicuous area first, as the product applied might cause damage painted/varnished furniture. These methods do not damage ceramic tiles or glass surfaces, unless otherwise stated.
- Be gentle and patient.
- Ensure all packaging is discarded afterwards, plastic can be dangerous when swallowed.
- Applying a bit of heat first (with a lighter or hair dryer) to any of these options to remove stubborn self adhesive tape will speed up the process (perhaps even take it off completely by rubbing the surface with your thumb just after the heat has been applied)
- Read the safety instructions for each product first before use
- Most of these products are flammable, use with caution and keep away from open fire
OPTION 1 (2 Quick Steps)
- Remove excess tape gently using a paint or window scraper (Academy Brushware Window Scraper
- Heat remaining residue slightly with a lighter or hair dryer & peel/rub off using your thumb OR use an old clean cloth to remove stubborn residue.
- If there is still some residue left, repeat above or use methylated spirits, Parafinn (Kerosene), Benzine or Lemon essential oil available at Clicks or any other pharmacy.
OPTION 2 (4 Quick Steps)
- Remove excess tape gently using a paint or window scraper (Academy Brushware Window Scraper
- Apply a liberal amount of POWAFIX Parafinn (Kerosene Based) and leave for 5-10 min. (Available at Builders Warehouse and other leading retailers in the paint section)
- Rub the area with a dry clean cloth
- For the remaining residue, apply some sunlight soap and water.
OPTION 3 (3 Steps)
- Remove stubborn, double sided tape with a hairdryer. Plug your hairdryer into the nearest power outlet and turn it on to a medium or high setting. Hold the hairdryer a few centimetres away from the tape and let the hot air blow over it, focusing on the edges and corners. This will cause the glue to soften. After a few minutes, set the hairdryer aside and try to pick at one of the corners of the tape with your fingernail. Most of the tape should come off, but you may need to take the hairdryer to it again. If you have very short fingernails, or don’t want to ruin a nice manicure, then use a butter knife or pallet covered in soft cloth instead. If you still have a thin film of residue – move onto Step 2.
- You will need to purchase Q20 OR make your own liquid water displacing solvent at home: Fill a 250 ml spray bottle with one part water and three parts sunflower oil or olive oil. Shake to mix. OR combine 90 percent vegetable oil with 10 percent acetone.
- Spray Q20 or your homemade solution onto the affected area and leave for 5 minutes. Rub off with a soft sponge. Use paper towel to dry off and rub off the remaining residue
OPTION 4 (1 Step)
Consider using a magic eraser to remove any residue. Dampen the magic eraser with water, and buff the affected area with it until the residue is all gone.
*Disclaimer: Magic erasers are mildly abrasive, which makes them unsuitable for glass and highly-polished surfaces, but they are safe for walls and doors; you may see some mild fading, however. You can purchase magic erasers at your nearest Makro or Google it
OPTION 5 (3 Steps)
This option is for VERY stubborn adhesive, but works like a bomb!
- Take a small glass bottle/jar to your nearest petrol station and fill it half way
- Using a clean cloth/mutton cloth dip into the petrol and rub the affected area.
- To clean the petrol and get rid of the smell use rubbing alcohol or methylated spirits
*Disclaimer: Try this method on a small area first as the petrol is strong and might damage your furniture. Petrol does not damage ceramic tiles or glass surfaces.
Petrol can be dangerous as it is flammable, keep away from open fire
OPTION 6 (3 Steps)
This option is for glass surfaces and ceramic tiles mainly, however can be tried on furniture – test on a small area first.
- Purchase Parafinn or Benzine from your nearest grovery store
- Heat the affected area with a lighter or hair dryer FIRST, not when the Parafinn or Benzine is already applied, both these products are flamable.
- Using a clean cloth/mutton cloth dip into either one of the above alcohol based liquids and rub the affected surface until the residue comes off.
