I think I need to start a support group called CA: Crafters Anonymous. Yup, as 12 step plan to keep my “stuff” under control. Now, for me, it’s not just the craft supplies, it’s all the “upcycle” projects which causes me to not throw anything away. Do you suffer from this too? Well, I don’t have CA but I do have an amazing tip to share with you so you can get those stubborn labels off jars and bottles so that you can craft with them…and NO chemicals are needed! Yup, no rubber gloves or opened windows because you are NOT using anything toxic when trying to remove that film of glue residue that just won’t remove itself from your jar.
How to Remove Glue Residue Without Chemicals
Now my go to method for removing labels from jars (works on plastic & glass) is my Easiest Way To Remove Labels. It works fabulously and about 95% of the time no glue remains on the bottle or jar. But, about 5% of the time, there will be some glue residue that clings to the jar like grim death. Don’t worry, just go in your pantry (or to your local grocer) to find everything you need to remove that ugly old glue.
- Bottle/Jar with glue residue
- Coconut oil
- Baking soda
Yes, you read the list correctly. You just need some coconut oil and baking soda.
Okay, over a sink, first you will smear coconut oil all over the glue-y parts of your bottle. Rub it around good. The oil bonds to the glue and softens it.
Next, you need an abrasive to scrub off the glue. You don’t want to scratch your jar or bottle so that’s why baking soda works best. Comet and other cleansers are very harsh and may scratch. Okay, back on task. Pour some baking soda onto your oil covered container.
Using your thumbs and fingers, work the baking soda all around the bottle, focusing on any areas where the glue is still adhered. The glue usually comes off fairly easily but if you find a stubborn area, just add a bit more baking soda and rub some more. Then, wash with soap and warm water.
Ta-da! I now have 2 bottles ready to craft with!
I am going to decorate my bottles and turn them into vases. How will you use your new, clean, label-free, glue-residue free bottles & jars!
See, you really can remove glue residue without chemicals!
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