Some people love to personalize their computer screens with artsy stickers or keep sticky notes on them but later the sticker wears off and we have no choice but to peel it off. Often what we’re left with is the sticker residue on our screens which can be an annoyance by obscuring visibility and attracting dirt.
In this guide, we’ll discuss best practices for removing sticker residue safely and effectively, from choosing the right cleaning solutions to applying them correctly.
Types of Sticker Residue Explained
Stickers can leave behind unique types of residue on computer screens but it depends on the adhesive they use. Understanding these variations will help you tailor the right cleaning approach. Here’s a breakdown of the most common type of sticker residue you might encounter.
Acrylic Adhesives
These are commonly found on labels and inexpensive stickers, acrylic adhesives are water-based and can become hardened over time which makes them more challenging to remove. They often need a solvent that can soften or dissolve the adhesive without harming the screen.
Rubber-Based Adhesives
Typically known and used for their strong initial tack and flexibility. Rubber-based adhesives are a lot easier to roll off or peel away from the surfaces, however, they can leave a gummy residue that attracts dust and dirt.
Silicone Adhesives
Silicone-based stickers are less common but they can be particularly troublesome because of their chemical resistance and durability. Most of the time they need specialized silicone solvents to break down the adhesive effectively.
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
EVA adhesives are what you would describe as a type of hot melt adhesive and they leave a sticky residue when cooled. These usually require a combination of gentle heat application and a suitable cleaning agent to remove completely.
Safe Cleaning Solutions
Now that we’ve touched on the type of sticker residues that you might encounter on your computer screen we’re now able to be selective on the right cleaning solutions that should be used to effectively remove them. Here are some cleaning solutions from DIY to commercial products you can apply safely to the type of adhesive on your screen:
DIY Cleaning Solutions
Vinegar and Water Solution: Best suited for rubber-based adhesives, mix equal parts of distilled water and white vinegar.
Baking Soda Paste: This mild abrasive can help lift the adhesive without scratching the screen and is effective for silicone adhesives.
Refer to our detailed DIY screen cleaner recipe to safely and effectively clean your device's screen at home.
Commercial Cleaning Products
Hygadget’s Hyscreen Kit is specifically formulated without harsh chemicals making it ideal for cleaning light to medium acrylic adhesives. This gentle formula solution is ideal if you also want to preserve your computer screen's protective and anti-glare coatings. Perfect for routine maintenance and residue removal.
Goo Gone is a versatile option that works well on acrylic and rubber-based adhesives. Follow up with a cloth damped with water to remove any leftover residue.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Removing sticker residue from your computer screen can be done effectively and efficiently with the right approach. Follow our step-by-step guide to help you clean your screen safely:
Step 1: Prepare the Screen
Ensure your computer screen is turned off and unplugged. Then Wipe the screen’s surface around the residue with a dry soft lint-free cloth to remove dust and debris to prevent scratching during the residue removal process
Step 2: Apply the Cleaning Solution
Select your cleaner based on the type of residue you have then dampen a soft lint-free cloth preferably a microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution.
If you’re unsure of what sticker residue you have then you should trial and error and start with the gentlest solutions (like water or vinegar) and then work your way up to stronger solutions containing alcohol or commercial adhesives.
Step 3: Gently Remove the Residue
Gently wipe the sticky area with your cloth damped with solution. We recommend wiping in circular motions to lift the residue and help avoid pressing too hard on the screen, which can cause damage.
Step 4: Scrape if Required
Use plastic scrapers if you find the residues are stubborn. Gently scrape away the residue angling the scraper flat against the screen to minimize the risk of damage.
Step 5: Final Dry Cleaning
Once you’re satisfied and notice that the residue is fully removed go ahead and wipe the screen dry with a fresh clean microfiber cloth.
What to Avoid
When cleaning the sticker residue off your computer screen there are some tempting but wrong practices when wiping off sticky adhesives. Here’s what you should steer clear of:
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Abrasive Materials
Do not use scrubs or abrasive cloths because although they might be effective in cleaning off the sticky residues they will do damage by scratching your computer screen.
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Harsh Chemicals
Stay away from ingredients like ammonia or bleach-based cleaners because these chemicals can strip your anti-reflective coatings or cause clouding of the screen.
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Excessive Liquid
It’s tempting to flush out the sticky residue with excessive cleaning solution, however, this will only increase your chances of moisture damage as the liquid can seep into the edges and internal components of your computer screen if you over-apply it.
