Goo Gone Original
Best all-purpose adhesive remover. Works on most glues and sticky residues.
View on AmazonHow to Get Glue & Super Glue Out of Clothes
Glue removal depends on adhesive type. White glue (Elmer's) washes out easily. Super glue requires acetone. Hot glue needs freezing then peeling. Sticker residue needs oil-based solvents.
Difficulty:
Medium
Quick Facts
Time Needed15-40 minutes
Success Rate85-95% varies by type
Key TipIdentify glue type first!
Stain TypePolymer-based
Step-by-Step Removal Guide
1
Identify Glue Type
White/school glue: water-soluble. Super glue (cyanoacrylate): needs acetone. Hot glue: requires freezing. Sticker residue: needs oil/solvent. Treatment varies completely by type.
Important: Don't put glue-stained items in dryer! Heat permanently sets most adhesives. Always treat and air-dry first.
2
For White/School Glue: Use Warm Water
Scrape off excess dried glue. Soak in warm water for 15-30 minutes. The glue will soften and dissolve. Rub fabric together under running water to remove completely.
3
For Super Glue: Use Acetone
Apply acetone (nail polish remover) to glue with cotton ball. Let sit 5-10 minutes. Glue will soften. Gently scrape with dull knife. Test fabric first - acetone can damage some synthetics.
Note: Don't use acetone on acetate, rayon, or triacetate fabrics - it will dissolve them! Use rubbing alcohol instead.
4
For Hot Glue: Freeze Then Peel
Place garment in freezer for 30 minutes. Frozen glue becomes brittle. Flex fabric to crack glue, then peel or scrape off. For residue, use rubbing alcohol or Goo Gone.
5
For Sticker Residue: Use Oil or Solvent
Apply Goo Gone, WD-40, or cooking oil to adhesive residue. Let sit 10 minutes to penetrate. Rub gently with fingers or cloth. The residue will roll up and come off.
6
Wash Thoroughly
After removing glue, wash with dish soap to remove solvent residue, then launder normally with detergent. Air dry first to ensure all adhesive is gone before using dryer.
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Pure Acetone (100%)
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View on AmazonIsopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 91%
Safer alternative to acetone. Works on many adhesives without fabric damage.
View on AmazonWD-40 Multi-Use Product
Excellent for sticker residue and label adhesive. Penetrates and dissolves.
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DIY Home Remedy
Vinegar + Baking Soda Soak
Natural method for water-soluble glues:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons baking soda
- 4 cups warm water
- 1 tablespoon dish soap
Method:
- Mix warm water and vinegar in basin
- Add baking soda slowly (it will fizz)
- Add dish soap and stir gently
- Soak glue-stained item for 30-60 minutes
- Rub fabric together to loosen glue
- Scrape softened glue with dull knife
- Rinse thoroughly
- Wash normally
Why it works: Vinegar's acid breaks down glue bonds, baking soda provides gentle abrasion, warm water softens adhesive, and dish soap emulsifies residue. Works great for school glue and some craft adhesives!
Not sure what stain it is?
Snap a photo with the free Stain Solutions app and get the right treatment in seconds.
Guides by Surface
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use acetone on all fabrics?
No! Acetone dissolves acetate, rayon, triacetate, and some synthetic fabrics. It can also affect fabric dyes. Always test in a hidden area first. For delicate fabrics, use rubbing alcohol instead - it's safer but may take longer.
How do I remove super glue from delicate fabrics?
Try rubbing alcohol first. If that doesn't work, soak in warm water with dish soap for several hours to soften, then gently work fabric to break the bond. For silk or wool, take to professional dry cleaner - super glue is very difficult on delicates.
Will Goo Gone damage or stain my clothes?
Goo Gone is generally safe for fabrics but can leave an oily residue. Always wash garment immediately after using Goo Gone. Apply dish soap to the area before washing to cut through the oil. Test on hidden area of expensive garments first.
Can I remove dried glue from vintage or antique fabrics?
Be extremely cautious. For valuable items, consult textile conservation expert. If attempting yourself, start with gentlest method (warm water soak) and work up gradually. Never use harsh solvents on antique fabrics without expert guidance.
