How to Remove Adhesive Residues

 When something is stuck — and you don’t want it to be stuck — that can be a problem.

This is especially true when it comes to tape, glue, and other sticky stuff we use all the time in our homes and businesses. You can use soap and water, you can scrub, you can get red in the face… but when it comes to proper adhesive residue removal, there is a better way.

Scrape it off

If the adhesive residue is on a flat, hard surface, using a straight razor blade can remove the majority of the residue. It basically slices it off the surface. But be careful you don’t scratch the surface, especially wood and natural materials. If that happens, you have permanent damage. After scraping, you will still need a little dry solvent, such as rubbing alcohol or acetone, to remove what’s remaining. A few seconds of contact time is all that is needed.

Dissolve and remove

If the adhesive residue is on a soft surface, such as carpet, furniture, or clothing, you can’t scrape it off. You need to dissolve the residue and then blot or rinse it away. This isn’t easy. If you apply too much dry solvent (rubbing alcohol, acetone, etc) you can delaminate the fabric if it has a backing. You can also dissolve glues that are part of the fabric. It’s best to add a small amount of dry solvent to a white, cotton cloth that you can dispose of, and blot at the residue. Several applications will be necessary, depending on the type of residue.

The challenge is the adhesive residue does not dissolve in anything but a dry solvent. Yes, you can use high heat and hopefully soften the residue for removal, but that is problematic at best.

One big issue is when tape is used on carpet. Even if you remove the tape and clean the residue, over time, that sticky residue remaining will collect soils, such as from foot traffic. A dark line will form. Repeated cleanings will help, but this is an often-frustrating task.

The real solution is to get some advice from your favorite cleaning company. Carpet and furniture cleaning companies deal with adhesive residues every day and know what to do. Let them handle this for you.

After all, it pays to call Executive Floor Care!  Give us a call today 772-510-5501

Does Carpet Cleaning Cause Mold?

A frequently asked questions is…."Can Carpet Cleaning Cause Mold?"

Well the answer is…yes, it can. But there’s a much better question.

 

Will properly done carpet cleaning cause mold? 

And the answer is no. In fact, keeping your carpet clean is a way to prevent mold infestation.

Mold requires three things to grow: warmth, bacteria and humidity.  Properly done, carpet cleaning can actually sanitize your carpet 

through the use of very hot water.

 

The key is to dry the carpet quickly to prevent any mold grow, and that’s 

what a professional carpet cleaner is so good at!

 

Here’s some quick tips to avoid getting mold in your carpet. First: purchase quality, anti-microbial, moisture resistant carpet and padding. Second: avoid carpeting areas with higher humidity such as bathrooms, kitchens and basements. And Third: quickly clean up spills and stains that may retain moisture.  And schedule routine professional cleaning for the right cleaning for your type carpet and fast drying to avoid mold grow.

 

For the best cleaning experience, It Pays to Call a Pro!

Call Executive Floor Care for your free quote today!

772-510-5501