Removing labels from glass jars and bottles can be tricky, so here are a few tips and tricks to make it easier for you.
Upcycle-lovers are very creative and endeavour to find numerous uses for glass jars and bottles whenever the opportunity arises.
Paper stocks used for labels include matt, glossy and textured paper. Some labels include a synthetic plastic-like film which you may already have discovered, are particularly difficult to remove. What is common though is that all are affixed with an adhesive and it’s this simple ingredient that’s the key to unlock a successful removal!
Simply working on the principle that glue binds the label to the glass jar, by heating up the inside of the glass jar or bottle with boiling water means that the glue will melt (inside of the glass being the closest possible contact point). The result is an easy to peel off label/sticker without soaking, scrubbing or other contraptions.
Please note however that you will need boiling water so avoid splashes! Make sure the glass jars are at room temperature first to avoid glass cracking; have oven mittens at hand to handle the hot glass.
Also, avoid soaking or getting the outer label wet before hand. Several times through the dish washer and you may find that the label is virtually baked on!
How to Remove Labels from Glass
I’d suggest you start with this tried-and-true method to remove labels:
- Don’t get the outside label wet as this method won’t work if the jar/bottle has already gone through the dish washer.
- Fill the bottle or jar with warm water to temper the glass first otherwise it could shatter or crack the glass due to ‘heat shock’.
- Tip water out, then fill with boiling water thus melting the glue from the most direct point of contact, the inside.
- Wait a minute for the hot water to work its magic and gently peel away the label. Be careful of the hot liquid inside!
If there is any leftover residual glue on the outside of the glass, then try:
- soaking bottle/jar in hot soapy water and scrubbing with a kitchen scourer
- acetate (eg: nail polish remover) and a paper towel in a circular motion until gone
- steel wool, a paint scraper or the blunt edge of a knife to scrape away at the glue
- Eucalyptus Oil on a cotton pad
Once your labels have been removed, let your head go wild on all the possible uses! Here are a few Upcycling Glass Jar ideas from my household to get you started.
