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How to Remove Tape Marks

Nicole Byerly

Tape is a diverse product that you can use for numerous things. Whether you are holding something in place, sealing a box properly, or hanging a piece of art from the chalkboard or wall, tape may leave a sticky mark when it comes time to lift it from the surface. Removing tape marks can seem like a difficult task, but it is something you can do in a short amount of time by using inexpensive cleaning products or even household materials.

Remove Tape Marks With Cleaning Product

Tape usually leaves a sticky residue once removed from surfaces.
  1. Cover the tape marks with a commercial cleaning product such as Goo Gone. Apply a thick coating that covers the tape marks thoroughly. Allow the cleaner to work into the tape marks for 1 to 2 minutes.

  2. Scrub away tape marks using an old tooth brush. Work the brush in a circular motion to lift away tape residue.

  3. Wipe away the residue and cleaning product with a paper towel. Dampen a paper towel with water and wash away the remaining residue.

Dish Soap Tape Mark Removal

  1. Mix 1 tsp. of non-bleach dish soap with 1 tsp. of water for a small spot of tape residue. If you are removing tape marks from a larger area, mix at a one part dish soap to one part water in the desired amount.

  2. Pour the mixture over all of the tape marks on the surface. Whether the tape marks are left on fabric, glass or any other surface, this is a mixture that will cause no harm to the surface applied to. Allow soap mixture to set for one minute.

  3. Scrub the tape marks vigorously with an old toothbrush. Work from the outer edges of the tape marks toward the center area to gently lift the tape residue up.

  4. Wipe the surface clean with a damp rag once all tape marks are scrubbed off.

Peanut Butter Tape Mark Removal

  1. Spread a thick layer of peanut butter over the tape marks. Use a butter knife or a putty knife in order to apply a thick and even coat over the entire mark.

  2. Set a timer for a minimum of one hour. Peanut butter is a less labor intensive way to remove tape residue, however the process takes longer than using a household cleaner. For stubborn sticky areas, allow peanut butter to sit for several hours or overnight.

  3. Wipe off peanut butter using a sponge. You will have to rinse the sponge one to two times throughout the process to remove excess peanut butter from the sponge and prevent spreading.

  4. Wipe any remaining peanut butter off the surface with a damp rag. This will leave the surface clean and free of tape marks.