How to Remove an Adhesive Patch From the Wall

Adhesive on walls from stickers or tape does not always peel off easily when the wall decoration is removed. Trying to peel or scrape very strong adhesive off of walls may take some of the paint off, which is a problem if you are not about to repaint. Leaving adhesive on the wall looks unattractive and makes new paint go on unevenly. Luckily, certain chemicals can help dissolve adhesive, although it is important to make sure a solvent does not dissolve paint before using a lot of it.

Dull knife or other scraping device
Mineral oil, lard or oil lubricant
Adhesive solvent
Sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Rub off as much of the adhesive as possible with your fingers. Weak adhesives will often ball-up into small clumps when rubbed.
- 2
  Gently scrape off as much of the adhesive as possible with a dull knife or your fingernails, taking care not to scratch the wall paint.
- 3
  Lubricate leftover adhesive with mineral oil, lard or another oily lubricant. Try to gently scrape off the adhesive again.
- 4
  Use a strong solvent, such as paint remover. Keep in mind that strong solvents damage paint in addition to loosening adhesive. Also consider wearing protective gloves to prevent skin contact with the harsh chemicals in the solvent.
- 5
  Sand off any leftover adhesive with sandpaper, but sandpaper will also remove the paint beneath the adhesive. Only use sandpaper as a last resort or if you are already planning to touch up or repaint the wall.

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