What is the best solvent to remove the thick gummy glue left behind by self-adhesive Velcro?
Removing sticky adhesive left by Velcro
Oct 11, 2024
Last reply: 1 year ago
12 Replies
The question is what is the substrate? If it's on glass you can be more aggressive than if it's on plastic, for example.
I imagine on glass you can use acetone, but I wouldn't do it on say uPVC windows.
I've had ok results with IPA and a toothbrush - it does need the scrubbing action to shift. It's possible that if you have a way of letting the IPA soak in (harder on vertical, but maybe eg clamp a paper towel or sponge on the surface) it'll shift quicker.
Theo
The residue is on a gloss-painted central heating pipe. Over several years, the pipe rarely got warm except for the odd occassion.
I would try IPA. Anything too aggressive is at risk of stripping the paint.
Theo
I start with meths and, if that doesn't work, white spirit. (Check that the solvent doesn't damage the substrate by testing it on an inconspicuous area.)
This works well at removing the sticky residue from labels and seems not to affect most plastic surfaces.
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John
+1
I find IPA just spreads it around.
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On my (somewhat ancient) bottle:
- Tackles Gum, Tar, Adhesive, Wax, Wet Paint, Crayon, Grease, Labels and Grime.
- Use safely on China, Glass, Plastic, Fabric, Paintwork, even Skin and Hair.
According to the MSDS:
Hydrocarb Hydrocarbons, C9-C12, n-alkanes, isoalkanes, cyclics, aromatics (2-25%): 60-100%
Theo
Sounds like Carbon Tetracloride
Thank you for comparing the ingredients of those two.
WD40.
I am serious.
& silicone.
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