I am going to need to tape down the covers of some small storage boxes that will hold electronic components and small tools during transit.
I do not want the adhesive to leave a sticky residue when the tape is finally rmoved.
Any suggestions?
Masking tape is supposed to be removable. that's at least what it's for.
TW
Not if it's left in place for a long time ... the world "finally" suggests it may well be
If the storage boxes are hard plastic, duct tape will usually come off fairly cleanly (apart, maybe, from a thin line at the edges).
A universal alternative would be to use sheets of (say) newspaper between the tape and the boxes, and tape all the way around the boxes.
Only for short time and only if not exposed to UV. For instance, mask an outside window for painting and leave for perhaps a week and you may/will find that the glue gas started to go hard and is not removed when the rest of the tape is removed. There now some low tack tapes that may overcome this problem but they may not be that suitable for keeping lids on boxes.
It may not stick well to those shiny surface plastic boxes so with any tape apply the tape around all 4 sides and then further side on top of the first layer of tape.
Two magnets? Brian
If a one of transit.....
How small are these boxes? If reasonably small pack them all tightly into a larger box with lid/top using screwed up newspaper etc. to make sure that they cannot move during transit. This will negate the need to stick down the tops of the smaller boxes.
Real Sellotape leaves far less residue than cheap stuff. Otherwise use string or velcro straps right round. Cling Film might work or help seal the boxes.
3M Scotch tape seems to peel more cleanly, not sure about long term.
Micropore surgical tape, particularly the shiny plastic type.
Elastic bands?
Cling wrap on a roll mounted on a handle is excellent for this type of thing. Go round the item 2-3 times keeping the film taut. It will seal it and is easily torn off when access is needed
Thank you for suggestions. It really helps to get a second opinion.
Alan
This stuff comes off cleanly after several months
The blue masking tape can be left on for quite a while and removed without leaving marks, in my experience. Don't leave the cheap stuff on for more than a day or few.
14 day clean removal - so may have the same problems as other tapes if left on for a prolonged time.
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