how to remove sticky labels from plastic containers?

Answer 1

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But removing labels from plastic containers is deceptively easy once you know how. For success every time, without scratched containers or residual glue, follow this simple procedure:

1. Apply a thick coat of cooking oil to the label in question.
2. Allow it to soak in, undisturbed, for 24 hours.
3. Try to peel the label off. If it comes readily, proceed to the next step. If it doesn't, repeat steps 1 and 2. (Many labels require two applications; some take several.)
4. After the label has been peeled off, some sticky, partly dissolved glue will remain. To remove it, coat the area with oil a final time and allow it to sit overnight. 5. Wipe off the oil and dissolved glue, then wash the container in hot, soapy water. No trace of label or glue will remain.

Answer 2

We recently bought a couple dozen of those big plastic storage containers (similar to recycle bins) so we could store some of our GymPaws Gym Gloves inventory here in the offices. As if the containers aren't enough of an eye sore, those labels had to go. Little I know how much of a pain in the butt it would be!

We tried EVERYTHING! We even called the manufaturer to see if they had suggestions. As a last resort we researched online and discovered a lot of people suggesting peanut butter. Supposedly the oils would soak into the labels and loosen the adhesive. It did not work.

Yesterday I called Mom to wish her happy birthday and mentioned my frustration with my DIY project. She said "just use a wet tshirt and iron." BRILLIANT!

1. Get a tshirt wet and lay on top of the label.
2. With iron on medium rub over the label area - creating heat and steam of 20 seconds.
3. Immediately peel off label before it cools and hardens again. Rubbing alcohol will remove any bits of sticky residue.

Moral of the story... always listen to Mom... she knows EVERYTHING!

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
how to remove sticky labels from plastic containers?

Answer 4

i know what hasn't worked for me so far this week -

nail varnish remover
washing up liquid (combined with a toothbrush, scrubbing thing or spoon)
cleaning spray
flour (thought it might be worth a go & take the stickiness away with it)!!!
boiling water (alone & combined with washing up liquid & associated items)

I've been trying to get the remaining bits of glue off a plastic container so I can reuse it - seems such a waste to keep throwing things away when they can be reused but it's proving impossible to get the glue off. VERY annoying xxx

Answer 5

I have heard that a little peanut butter is very good..no joke. Or some people use nail varnish remover but this might affect the colour of the plastic. Even a little olive oil might help. Good luck.

Answer 6

Normally you peel the darned things off, which leaves a sticky sort of patch if you dont do it right, I remove this with a bit of BRASSO or silver cleaner, dead easy. Works well on car windows to remove parking tickets etc.

Answer 7

I normally use a bit of lighter fluid on a cloth or tissue and rub.

Or try using sticky tape. Just rapidly press it on and off with the sticky side and the glue residue should normally stick to the tape.

NEVER use hot water, as it melts the glue and it sticks even more. You could soak it in cold water and scrape it off with a blunt knife.

Any of those should work :)

Answer 8

There is a product called goo gone that is made for removing such things and then soak it in hot soapy water

Answer 9

Nail varnish remover or white spirit. Failing that a lot of patience!

Answer 10

Put some meths on a cloth and rub over sticky area.