How to Safely Remove Masking Tape from Windows and Glass

Tape can be such a pesky thing to remove from most surfaces, but when it's a piece of glass it is even more important to remove all the sticky residue as it will be more visible then most places. I have comprised a few simple ways to remove the tape with little hassle and no sticky residue.

One way to remove the tape is with a sharp edge, be it with a razor blade (the kind you use on box cutters) or an exacto knife, there are also some designed tape removers that are sold in stores and online. Take the middle of the blade or sharpened edge to any corner of the tape. Push until it has lifted the corner from the glass then with your other hand grab the lifted tape and pull as you push the tool further down (or up if working from the bottom of the tape) the tape until the whole piece is removed. If some of the tape wouldn't come up repeat the process focusing there until it is all removed. This removal process should hopefully leave little to no sticky residue. If there is any left you can take the tip of your tool and use it to scrape the residue away. Back when I worked at a grocery store, I would use a razor blade to remove the tape and the residue from the glass doors and never once scratched it. Just use very little pressure when removing the sticky left overs.

Sometimes a sharp object is not the answer. It is not available, it just isn't working as you hope, or you worry about cutting into the glass. So there are other options. There are many ways to work on removing the solvent so the tape will be peel able by hand and then you can use the same remedy to clear up anything left over. The list of solvent removals is huge; anything that is safe on glass and can remove the connection is useable. This can vary from nail polish remover, goo gone, and WD-40. All of those work but are not always around. The easiest method and most likely handy cleaner is vinegar. Its natural acidity easily cuts through anything you want to clean. Mix a little bit of water with vinegar then soak the tape for a few minutes, a sponge is quite useful to help soak it. Then try pulling at the tape, if it still hasn't worked use vinegar alone, repeat, and try again. The vinegar and water method is also great for cleaning windows, toss in a drop or two of dish soap to really get it to sparkle. There will likely be some residue after you remove the tape, but that is easily taken care of with the same concoction you have used to remove the tape. A few wipes with a damp sponge, towel, or any other similar item will remove the residue. Use a dry towel to clean up any excess liquid and you're done. A tape free and clean window, enjoy.