Q&A for How to Remove Glue Residue

Essential oils are a very effective in removing residue from non-painted surfaces such as metal, plastic, or glass.

If it is hot glue, simply scrap it off. If it is a sticky glue dot material, use oil (food or baby) to help dislodge the bulk of the glue. Follow up with alcohol when most of the glue is removed. Wash mug well with detergent before using.

Baby oil can get under the sticky material to make it easier to be wiped off. Use a clean wipe and avoid rubbing to prevent spreading the sticky material. Isopropyl alcohol can then remove any remaining traces of glue.

Removing plastic from nylon may not be possible if it has completely melted into the nylon. Plastic and nylon have similar melting points so applying heat to separate them may not work. If the plastic is only on the surface, it may be possible to peel it off. You could bring the curtains to cleaners to evaluate if it is worth salvaging.

It is difficult to remove excess glue without damaging the part you need to keep stuck. The adhesive used will tell you what solvent to use for removing excess glue. Use a syringe to apply a small amount of the solvent and let it soak for a few seconds. Apply a cotton swab to pick up the dissolved glue. Repeat this until the desired result is achieved.

A razor blade can shave off the glue residue on the photo. Be careful not to cut into the photo. Keep the blade as level as possible with the photo surface to shave off the glue. Do not use solvent as it will spread the glue and potentially damage the photo.. An old shaving razor should work well for removing the dried glue.

The glue should roll up and peel off with finger tip pressure. If any residue remains, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean off the surface.