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How To Remove Stickers From Glass

Zero Waste Kitchen

Last Updated on February 17, 2022

Learn how to remove stickers from glass with a few simple steps! Reusing glass jars is a great step for going zero waste.

hands holding glass jar without stickers

I have a few glass jars. Ok, I have more than a few…. It’s more like hundreds of glass jars.

One side effect of going zero waste is that your accumulation of glass jars increases exponentially!

Taking the labels off of used jars is important to prevent clogs in your dishwasher, resolve any confusion as to what is in the jar, and it gives the jar a cleaner and more inviting look. The question of how to remove stickers from glass can be easy answered by using boiling water and a paste made from dish soap and baking soda.

I want to share my full-proof tips on how to remove sticker residue so your jars are clean and sparkly. Keep reading to learn how to get sticker residue off glass, why you should reuse jars, and how to reuse glass jars.

If you’d prefer a video demonstration, I’ve got you covered below!

why should I reuse jars and remove labels?

As part of a Going Zero Waste lifestyle, it’s important to reduce waste. We all end up with a bunch of glass jars when we begin cutting back on waste.

It’s just a fact of life. And, to be honest, a great way to reduce the emissions produced by glass transport is to reuse your jars!

You can read more about that in my post Which is Better for the Environment: Glass or Plastic?

But, when it comes to reusing jars, I personally prefer to remove sticker residue before using them. While it’s not required to remove the label, it gives the jar a much cleaner look which means I’m way more likely to use it.

how to remove stickers from glass

Things You Need

  • jars with labels on them
  • boiling water
  • baking soda
  • dish soap

Time needed: 3 hours

step-by-step how to get sticker residue off glass

  1. Boil water

    Put your kettle on and bring the water to a boil.

  2. Pour water into the jars

    Pour boiling water into the jars and then wait around 5 to 10 minutes.

  3. Peel labels

    The mason jar labels should easily peel off at this point, leaving behind lots of glue residue.

  4. Create the paste

    Create a paste of baking soda and dish soap. It’s not an exact measurement, but 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda plus a few pumps of dish soap should work.

    Stir the baking soda and dish soap together until a smooth paste is formed. Continue adding more dish soap or baking soda until you get a good consistency.

  5. Apply paste to jars

    Apply the mixture to the glass jars. It doesn’t have to be an even coat, but do the best you can to spread it around the full jar.

  6. Let jars sit

    Let the jars sit for a few hours or overnight.

  7. Wash jars

    Wash the paste off and VOILA you will be able to easily remove sticker residue in minutes! You’ll have clean jars that are ready to be used.

jar label removal methods to avoid

I know when you are trying to remove the mason jar labels, it’s tempting to use something to scrape it off. Whatever you do, avoid using objects like razor blades, scouring pads, or abrasive scrubbers. They can all leave etch marks in the glass and it can damage it.

what should I reuse glass jars for?

I could go on about all the ways you can reuse glass jars! After you learn how to get sticker residue off glass and clean them you are ready to start using them. Here are some common uses:

  • Store herbs and spices
  • Serve cocktails and other drinks
  • Use for storing leftovers
  • Turn into a candle
  • Transform it into a soap dispenser by adding a pump
  • Keep cosmetics inside
  • Collect small items or loose change
  • Use them as a vase
  • Add homemade jam and give as gifts
  • Store kitchen utensils
  • Turn into a centerpiece
  • Take with you when you bulk shop

is it environmentally friendly when you remove sticker residue with baking soda and dish soap?

Yes, baking soda is naturally eco-friendly, so it’s a great option for cleaning all sorts of things. For the dish soap, only use brands that are sustainable. Consider the packaging, ingredients, and ethics of the brand before purchasing.

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  1. OMG this worked like a charm!!! Thank you 😀
    Do you have any other awesome tips to remove strong smells (e.g. vinegar) from the lids?

  2. Just a heads up that pouring boiling water into cold jars can crack them! Make sure your jars are warm before the boiling water hits them.

  3. Wow! I never had imagined this thing but I had pile of jars here. Excited to finally remove those labels. And by the way, is it also applicable for liquor bottles?