How to Remove Stickers from Laptop

Make sure your laptop is not too old. The sticker will dry over time and the backing will separate from the printed side. If you decide to remove the sticker, do so as soon as possible. Stickers will not be new for one to two years (or more) depending on quality. If your laptop is old, see the last method: chemical removal.

Identify the sticker to remove. Some stickers are quite useful, such as the OEM retail license label that should be kept. Other stickers may contain serial numbers, service tags, support information, or system configuration. Typically, removeable stickers include labels promoting the Windows operating system (for example, “Designed for Windows XP” and “Windows Vista Capable”), as well as Intel and AMD processor labels.

Remember to proceed slowly. If you rush and try to peel off the entire label in one go, there’s a risk that you’ll tear or separate the adhesive backing.

Start at the edge. Use a fingernail or a not-too-sharp razor to pry off the sticker. Be careful not to damage or scratch the plastic or aluminum surface while prying.

Gently pull the sticker up from the edge you just pry. Try to pull at an angle between 45 and 90 degrees. Never pull the label at an angle greater than 90 degrees as it will easily cause the backing adhesive to separate from the printed side.

Surface Cleaning. Some sticker residues can be cleaned up easily, while others can’t. As always, you need to avoid scratching the computer’s surface.

First, try scrubbing away the residue by hand. Many glues, even if mixed with a bit of pulp, will still curl when you rub them on a flat surface.

Next, if rubbing doesn’t work, try using fabric tape or super-adhesive tape to remove any remaining sticker. Tear or cut a piece of tape and stick it on the surface to be cleaned, if possible, rub the tape a little before peeling it off. Repeat this process until all of the remaining sticker has adhered to the tape.

Third, use a paper towel to apply a small amount of cooking oil, such as canola or olive oil, to the adhesive. Allow the oil to penetrate the adhesive for 2-5 minutes. You can now use your fingers or a soft plastic scraper to scrape off the glue. Use a glass cleaner, such as Windex, and a clean paper towel to wipe away any remaining grease and cooking oil.

If all the above methods fail, the last resort is to use chemicals. A popular and extremely useful method is to use a cleaner that contains citric acid such as “Goo-Gone”. These types of cleaners won’t damage hard metals or plastics, but can dry soft plastic surfaces and leave a faint white stain. You should try first in a small and inconspicuous location. Another solution is alcohol (if convenient, you can try a little perfume or deodorant). Furniture polish, such as Old English, is also very effective. WD-40 anti-rust oil also does not damage the surface and you can clean it with a dishcloth and a little soap.