Sticker glue is designed to resist water, which is why soap and scrubbing barely touch it. Oil is different: it soaks into the adhesive and breaks its grip on the surface. That's why the residue lifts off with a cloth after a few minutes, rather than smearing around.
The basic method
- Peel off as much of the paper or plastic layer as you can. On old stickers, a hairdryer on a warm setting for 30 seconds softens them first.
- Spray Ballistol onto the residue, or apply it with a cloth on surfaces where you don't want overspray.
- Leave it for five to ten minutes. Thick or old residue may need longer.
- Rub with a cloth or your thumb. The glue should roll into small balls and come away.
- Clean off the oil with warm water and washing-up liquid, then dry.
For very stubborn or thick adhesive, cold degreaser works faster. It is a solvent, so test it on plastic first.
Surface by surface
Glass and mirrors
The easiest surface. Oil, wait, wipe, then clean with glass cleaner for a streak-free finish. A plastic scraper or old card helps on thick residue. Avoid metal blades on coated glass.
Plastic
Works well on hard plastics such as storage boxes, laptop lids, appliances and toys. Avoid solvents like nail polish remover, which can cloud or melt some plastics. Test on a hidden spot first if the plastic is soft or rubbery.
Metal
Stainless steel appliances, tools and car parts clean up easily. The oil also leaves a protective film on bare steel.
Wood
On unfinished or oiled wood, Ballistol lifts the glue and conditions the wood at the same time. On varnished or painted wood, test first and wipe off quickly.
Car paint
Old parking permits, dealer badges and bumper stickers come off cleanly. Warm the sticker, peel, apply oil, wait and wipe with a microfibre cloth. Wash the area afterwards so wax and polish will stick.
Where not to use it
Don't use oil on fabric, paper, unsealed stone or suede, because it can leave a stain. For residue on clothes, use a laundry pre-treatment instead.
