Yes, it’s a classic! You’re looking forward to your new storage glass or stylish wine bottle, and then you’re left with that stubborn, gray adhesive film that gets really greasy when it comes into contact with water.

The reason is simple: Many label adhesives are fat-soluble, not water-soluble. Unfortunately, boiling water doesn’t help much, except that it could melt the adhesive even deeper into the pores.

Here are the three most effective ways to get rid of glue without melting it:

Kitchen Trick: Cooking Oil
This is the gentlest and often most effective method for glass and plastic.

Here’s how: Rub the glue residue with regular cooking oil (rapeseed, sunflower, olive – it doesn’t matter).

Wait: Leave it for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Removal: The glue will dissolve and can be easily wiped off with a kitchen towel or sponge. Then degrease briefly with dishwashing liquid.

“Strong mixture”: Baking soda and oil
If the glue is particularly thick or old, a paste can help.

Method: Mix equal parts baking soda (or baking powder) and oil.

Effect: The oil chemically dissolves the glue, while the baking soda acts as a very gentle abrasive without scratching the glass.

For the really tough: Nail polish remover or mineral spirits
If all else fails (often with solvent-based adhesives):

Procedure: Soak a cotton swab in nail polish remover (acetone) or rubbing alcohol and rub the adhesive.

Caution: This works great on glass, but can dull or even dissolve the surface of many plastics. Always test in an inconspicuous area first!

What to avoid:

Steel wool: Causes fine scratches where dirt will later collect.

Dishwashing liquid only: Dishwashing liquid is designed to absorb grease, but it usually doesn’t hold up to pure industrial adhesive unless it uses oil.

Pro tip: If you haven’t even started to peel the label off, a hair dryer will often help. Heat the adhesive briefly and the label can usually be removed in one go without any residue.

Are you currently struggling with a stubborn crock pot or have you been preparing for your next DIY project?