How to Remove Duct Tape

Duct tape refers to strong, versatile adhesive tapes that are made with three main components: rubber adhesive, cloth, and film backing to use in a variety of applications. There are many different types and grades of duct tape. Duct tape was originally called “Duck Tape” and invented by Johnson & Johnson's Permacel division during WWII for the military. The military specifically needed a waterproof tape that could be used to keep moisture out of ammunition cases. This is why the original duct tape came only in army green.

The thing that makes duct tape a staple in almost every toolbox, garage, and on every job site, is the very thing that makes it challenging to remove. With a few tools and ingredients, you can easily avoid damaging surfaces and spending unnecessary time on removal.

But, before we jump in, a word of advice. Before applying tape, clean and dry your surface thoroughly. An unclean surface can result in adhesion failure or difficulty in removing. Now, on to the solutions. 

10 Top Duct Tape Removal Tips

1. Take time to test. It is recommended that you test using any residue remover, whether home-made or commercially available, to ensure that it will not damage your surface. Test in an inconspicuous spot. Painted surfaces, shiny finishes, and wood are especially vulnerable to damage such as dulling or discoloration while removing tape.
2. Scraping. Careful and gentle scraping is very effective. Putty knives, spatulas, and scrapers are good tools to use as long as you take care not to exert too much pressure. For scratch-resistant surfaces like glass and stone, utility knife blades get the job done.
3. Warm soapy water. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. Warm, sudsy water can break down the tape enough for it to be removed by simply wiping it away. 
4. Bring the heat. You can help melt adhesives without damaging surfaces like floors or walls. All you need is a heat source such as a blow dryer, heat gun, or blow torch. Pair heat with gentle scraping and the job becomes more manageable. Work quickly and carefully. Once the surface cools off,  it becomes difficult to remove tape and residue without damage.
5. Let it rip. It’s better to pull off a band-aid quickly. The same is true with duct tape! Pulling it off in one quick rip will keep more adhesive on the tape and less on your surface. Surfaces vary and this might not be the best idea for all applications. (This caveat is especially true for painted surfaces.) It’s most effective when the tape has only been on for a few days and is not dried out.
6. Concentrated water pressure. Stubborn adhesives on hard materials in construction applications can be removed by blasting the surface with a high-powered water pressure system or through sandblasting. Proceed with care. Water pressure and sandblasting can mar surfaces even on tough materials like rock or bricks.
7. Neutralize the adhesive. Consider using a little rubbing alcohol, which is a non-solvent for pressure-sensitive adhesives. When you apply rubbing alcohol, the adhesive residue will lose its grip. This can also work with acetone, or nail polish remover. Keep in mind that alcohol or acetone may have a detrimental effect on finishes. Be especially careful with painted surfaces while using this method. 
8. Make a paste. Soap is damaging to some surfaces. It will leave a hard-to-remove scum. Instead, make a paste by mixing baking soda or laundry detergent with a little water. Cover the residue with the paste and let it sit. After an hour, wipe off the paste, and you should now be able to wipe the residue off easily with a damp cloth. 
9. Commercial products. Try adhesive removers like Goo Gone or Goof Off to quickly dissolve adhesive.   
10. Use lubricants. Use a rag with a nubby surface like terry cloth and soak a small area of it with a lubricant like WD-40 and start scrubbing. You can also spray the taped area and let it sit for a bit before scrubbing. Test first! You don’t want the product to stain your surface. Thoroughly wash afterward with detergent and dry before reapplying new adhesive.

Worth repeating: When applying any solution to your surface, to avoid staining or damaging finishes, be sure to test a small section in an inconspicuous place. It’s worth the extra time and the great results. 

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.