Tape marks on windows after winter, price labels on crockery, adhesive from mirror tape or hooks on tiles: glue residue collects dust and quickly turns dark. Water will not shift it, and scraping it clean takes ages and risks damage.
You can deal with it without special cleaners or a tradesperson. Scrape off the bulk, soften the rest with WD-40 Multi-Use and wash everything off with warm soapy water. The method works on glass, metal, ceramics, varnished wood and most plastics.
What you will need
- WD-40 Multi-Use or WD-40 Smart Straw for precise application
- A plastic scraper or a blade in a holder (for glass and ceramics)
- A clean cloth and a sponge
- A bowl of hot water with washing-up liquid
Important: Test WD-40 on a hidden area first: some plastics, rubber, polystyrene, matte and unvarnished surfaces may change appearance. Crockery and food-contact surfaces must be washed thoroughly with detergent after treatment.
Step 1
Scrape off the bulk of the glue
Hold the scraper or blade as flat to the surface as possible and gently remove everything that lifts: bits of paper or film and thick lumps of adhesive.
On plastic, varnished wood and painted surfaces use only a plastic scraper or the edge of an old bank card to avoid scratches.
Step 2
Apply WD-40 to the sticky residue
Spray WD-40 Multi-Use directly onto the glue residue. For small spots and edges next to seals, WD-40 Smart Straw with its thin straw is easier.
Leave it for 2-3 minutes to soak in and soften the glue. Old, dried residue can be left for 5-10 minutes.
Step 3
Wipe away and repeat if needed
Wipe the area with a clean cloth: the softened glue rolls up and transfers easily to the fabric. Lift anything left with the scraper once more.
Reapply as many times as needed until the surface feels smooth to the touch.
Step 4
Wash the surface
Once the glue has gone, remove the product residue. Fill a bowl with hot water and washing-up liquid and scrub the area with a sponge or cloth. This removes both the last of the tackiness and the oily film.
Dry the surface. On glass, finish with ordinary window cleaner for a streak-free result.
Tip: Keep a
pocket-size WD-40 100 ml in your tool drawer: it comes in handy for peeling price labels off gifts, stickers off new furniture and tape marks after moving house.
What next
The same method removes sticker marks from the fridge, double-sided tape from doors and adhesive from protective film on new appliances. Afterwards, WD-40 Multi-Use is useful for squeaky hinges and sticking drawers.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».