How to Remove Tape Residue from Oakville Windows

Have you recently had your home painted or your windows upgraded? Is there tape residue stuck on your windows? Not quite sure how to remove tape residue without damaging your windows? 

As well, you may like to decorate your windows and doors Oakville with holiday and seasonal decals. They may be somewhat easy to remove, but often they live behind remnants of tape residue.

In this article, we will discuss how to remove duct tape residue and another residue from your windows without scratching or otherwise damaging your windows.

 How to Remove Tape Residue From Windows

Quick Method to Get Rid of Duct Tape Residue

Using rubbing alcohol is the easiest way to remove duct tape from glass surfaces. If you don’t have any, hand sanitizer works just as well.

  • Directly apply the liquid to the affected area
  • Let it soak for a few minutes (do not let it evaporate!)
  • In a circular motion, use a soft cloth to remove the residue
  • Repeat as needed
  • Clean the area with warm, soapy water (dish soap works best)
  • Use clean water to rinse
  • Dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks

Other Ways to Remove Tape Residue from Glass

  1. Initially remove the duct tape like a band-aid. In other words, do it quickly. Slowly peeling away the tape can cause resistance and separation. If you rip it off in one, clean-cut motion, chances are there will be little to no residue remaining.  This will only work if the tape has not been on for longer than a few days. If it has been on for longer, other methods may be required. 
  2. Try using your fingers to gently scrape off as much residue as you can.
  3. Use a butter knife or plastic knife to carefully remove the residue. Take care not to scratch the windows. Do not use a steak knife, pocket knife, or any other sharp cutting tools. This can cause personal injury and/or damage your windows.
  4. Spray the window with a good amount of store-brand glass cleaner. After letting it sit for a while, use a clean, dry towel to scrape away the residue.
  5. If you don’t have any glass cleaner, use warm water and dish soap. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before removing it with a soft clean sponge or cloth. 
  6. Mix a solution of water and vinegar (white vinegar works best). Mix one-fourth of a cup of vinegar in a small bowl filled with warm water. Use a sponge to apply the mixture to the window. Let it sit for a minute before using a sponge to remove the duct tape or other sticky residue in a circular motion. 
  7. Use olive oil, coconut oil, or another cooking oil. Gently apply a thin coat on the area using a clean sponge or towel. Using a scouring pad (non-abrasive only) or sponge, remove the tape remnants.  Wash the window to remove any oil and any remaining tape residue. 

Bonus: Tips to Remove Tape Residue From Areas Other Than Glass:

  1. For areas such as brick, concrete, limestone, and other stone surfaces, soap is not ideal as it will leave behind a soap residue. For these surfaces, use a soft brush and a solution of baking soda and water. After forming a paste with the water and baking soda, use the brush to apply a thin layer of the residue, rubbing gently until it is removed. Clean and rinse the ware with warm, clean water.\
  2. For walls and floors, you can use heat without working about causing damage. Use a hairdryer to apply heat while gently scraping the surface to remove the residue. Take care to not let it overheat.  
  3. You can use store-bought products such as WD-40 or Goo-Be-Gone. However, you should read the directions and use only those areas for which the products are recommended.