StickerYou Blog

Wood may seem like a near-impossible surface to remove stickers and labels from. However, as StickerYou decals and custom stickers are quality-made, you’ll have no trouble removing them with the right method.

We’ve researched dozens of ways to remove stickers and added our favorites to this article. Now you can quickly and safely give old furniture and surfaces a fresh start.

How to Remove Stickers From Wood With Adhesive Tape

This method of removing sticker residue is very effective for older or partially removed stickers found on wooden surfaces.

Our team recommends the following steps:

• Step 1: Cut a piece of adhesive tape a little longer than the length of the sticker you wish to remove.
• Step 2: Place it firmly over the sticker area and ensure it is tightly flattened over the tape. You can use the palm of your hand for this or even a stiff plastic object. 
• Step 3: Holding the end of the adhesive tape, quickly rip off the piece.
• Step 4: Repeat the process until you have removed the sticker.
• Step 5: Wipe over with a damp clean cloth and polish the wood with the appropriate wood wax or varnish.

How to Remove Stickers From Wood With a Hair Dryer

Using a heat source to aid sticker removal from wood surfaces can also be very effective. 

We personally suggest this method, as a hair dryer works wonders in reheating the glue that binds the sticker to wood surfaces with little to no damage. 

• Step 1: Set your hair dryer to high. 
• Step 2:  Aim the hairdryer towards the sticker area and hold it there for about a minute. 
• Step 3: Start to peel off the sticker with a plastic scraper while aiming the hairdryer at the corner. Be carful to not burn your fingers. 
• Step 4: Continue to peel until the whole sticker is removed.
• Step 5: Use a damp cloth and wipe off the area. 
• Step 6: Dry off the area and use an appropriate wood varnish or polish to spruce up the newly-cleaned spot.

How to Remove Stickers From Wood With Lubricants

While you should avoid liquids when it comes to porous wood surfaces and furniture, other solvents are less likely to be absorbed. You can use baby oil, petroleum jelly or any other oil-based substance to remove your stickers. 

Follow these five simple steps:

• Step 1: Choose your lubricant of choice and dab it over the sticker area, paying special attention to the edges of the sticker. Leave it for a few minutes or until the sticker becomes loosened and the edges begin to curl upwards.
• Step 2: Use a plastic scraper or flat edge to slowly lift the sticker off the surface. 
• Step 3: Once you’ve peeled it back enough, you can use your fingers to peel the sticker up gently.
• Step 4: If the sticker does not come off in one clean peel, pause and use the scraper to detach the tougher parts, then continue peeling. 
• Step 5: Wipe the sticker-free area with a damp cloth and polish the section with appropriate wood wax or polish.

How to Remove Stickers From Wood With Commercial Products 

Many commercially available products out there will easily remove stickers and residue. One product we recommend is Goo-Gone. 

Follow these easy steps: 

• Step 1: Spray Goo Gone on the affected area.
• Step 2: Leave it on the surface for five to ten minutes, giving it enough time to work. 
• Step 3: Wipe the Goo Gone and the sticker away with a clean cloth. 

How to Remove Stickers From Wood With Homemade Sticker Spray

A homemade spray made of white vinegar, baking soda, water, and dish soap is a great way to remove stickers from just about any type of wood. Here’s how to make your own and instructions for use. 

• Add one tablespoon of vinegar to a plastic spray bottle. 
• Add a few drops of dish soap and shake well. You will know it’s ready when the mixture becomes foamy. 
• Spray the solution over the sticker area and sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the sprayed area. 
• Allow this to sit for a few minutes before scraping off the sticker with a credit card or plastic razor scraper. 
• Repeat as needed. 
• Once the sticker comes off, you’ll need to wipe away the remaining spray and polish the wooden area with wax or polish. Ensure you use the right polish or wax for your wood type.

Precautions When Removing Stickers From Wood

1. Always use the right application according to the type of wood.
2. Use a stiff tool or scraper but never a sharp one, as this will cause damage to the wood surface.
3. Avoid using large amounts of water and oil, as wood is porous and can absorb liquid solvents and solutions. 
4. Always refinish the wood when you remove stickers. 
5. Be aware that the longer stickers remain on wood, the harder they are to remove.
6. Be sure to test solutions, sprays, and solvents on a small section of the wood before applying them to the larger section. 
7. If all else fails, you can use sandpaper to remove the sticker if your wood is raw. However, if you have finished wood, then sandpaper is not recommended.

Now you’re ready to never worry about removing stickers from wood again! These tips should make it simple for you to restore any wooden surface without hassle. If you have any other suggestions or methods that work for you feel free to let us know! We’d love to add it to our list.

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StickerYou blog posts are written and published by members of the StickerYou team at our headquarters, located in the beautiful city of Toronto, Canada.