Selforfun Volunteer Community Mentor
Selling on eBay for decades, I’ve found these tips super helpful and still see questions from sellers about removing labels, both here and on Facebook. Here’s a guide that covers different surfaces and tools to make the job easier.
1. General Tools and Tips
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: Use low heat to soften the adhesive. Hold the device a few inches away and heat the label for 20-30 seconds. This works great for shrink wrappers, plastics, and painted items.
Knife or Razor Blade: Carefully lift the edge of the label, then peel it off. A plastic scraper or razor is best for delicate surfaces.
Tweezers: Perfect for removing small leftover pieces with precision.
2. Adhesive Removers
Isopropyl Alcohol (Rubbing Alcohol):
Effective for: Plastics, painted items, shrink wrappers, and paper surfaces.
Application: Dampen a cloth and rub the residue gently. Always test on delicate or painted surfaces first.
Goo Gone:
Effective for: Plastics, shrink wrappers, and painted surfaces.
Application: Apply a small amount, let it sit for 5 minutes, then wipe clean. Wash the area with soap and water afterward.
Caution: Can leave an oily film on paper.
Goof Off:
Effective for: Plastics and shrink wrappers.
Application: Apply sparingly, rub gently, and clean with a damp cloth.
Caution: Contains acetone, which can damage painted surfaces and paper.
Oops! Adhesive Remover:
Effective for: Plastics, painted surfaces, and shrink wrappers.
Application: Similar to Goo Gone but gentler. Always test first.
Caution: May stain thin paper surfaces.
WD-40:
Effective for: Plastics and painted surfaces.
Application: Spray on adhesive, let it sit, then wipe off. Clean with soap and water to remove any residue.
Caution: Not ideal for paper as it can leave an oily stain.
Zippo Lighter Fluid:
Effective for: Plastics and shrink wrappers.
Application: Apply a small amount to a cloth, rub gently, and clean with soap and water.
Household Oils (Olive Oil or Baby Oil):
Effective for: Paper and shrink wrappers.
Application: Dab oil on adhesive, let it sit, and rub off. Clean with soapy water afterward.
Acetone (Nail Polish Remover):
Effective for: Shrink wrappers and some plastics.
Application: Use sparingly with a cotton swab to dissolve adhesive.
Caution: Not safe for painted items or paper—may discolor or damage.
Mayonnaise:
Effective for: Shrink wrappers and paper.
Application: Spread a thin layer, leave it overnight, and wash off.
Caution: Slower and impractical for bulk removal.
3. Surface-Specific Recommendations
Plastic:
Best Methods: Isopropyl Alcohol, Goo Gone, WD-40, or Oops.
Heat Application: A heat gun or hair dryer softens adhesive for easier removal.
Tools: Use a scraper or tweezers for stubborn spots.
Painted Items:
Best Methods: Isopropyl Alcohol or Oops (test first).
Caution: Avoid acetone or Goof Off, as they may strip paint.
Shrink Wrapper:
Best Methods: Heat gun, Goo Gone, WD-40, or Zippo Lighter Fluid.
Tools: Use a knife to lift labels and tweezers for precise residue removal.
Paper:
Best Methods: Olive Oil, Mayonnaise, or WD-40.
Caution: Avoid acetone or Goof Off, which can damage the surface.
Final Tips
1. Test First: Always test a small, inconspicuous area to prevent damage.
2. Patience: Strong adhesives may need repeated treatment.
3. Clean Thoroughly: After removing adhesive, wash the area with soap and water.
Whether you're dealing with one label or dozens, these methods can help you save time and protect your items. If you’ve found other tricks that work, feel free to share! Happy selling!
My favorite is Oops Original Formula – very expensive and discontinued – along with a Heater Gun and Rubbing Alcohol.
Back when I used to sell a bunch of action figures and collectibles I swore by this.
I believe it's highly flammable and smells like paint thinner. But the smell, like the price sticker adhesive goes away really fast. Not much was needed when I removed stickers, just a cotton ball or pad and dabbed it onto the cardboard with the sticker. Super easy to peel as if only the water tension was keeping the sticker onto the cardboard or plastic backing. The liquid evaporates almost instantly leaving no oily residue behind. Zero damage done to the cardboard backing graphics.
