How to Remove Labels from Glass Jars: 5 Simple, Fast and Effective Methods to do it Perfectly!

Removing labels and stickers from product packages or jars, so as to reuse them, can become a real problem, whether it is paper adhesive labels or the packaging wrapping. In fact, if you prefer vegetables in glass, you can save the jars to reuse them by filling them with new preserves or sweet jams: but what to do if the label just doesn't go away? Here are 5 simple and effective methods to remove labels from glass jars and bring them back to life.

How to Remove Labels from Glass Jars

Removing labels from glass jars may seem impossible, but with these 5 methods you will be able to reuse your jars quickly and effectively: once you have removed the label, remember to sterilize them, before unleashing your imagination and trying new savory preserves or sweets. Once the recipe has been prepared, don't forget to use a new label in which to write what the jar contains and the packaging date. Finally, place the jars in a place suitable for their conservation.

1. White Vinegar

Fill a shallow container with white vinegar, then arrange the bottles and jars so that the entire label is covered in the vinegar: let them soak for 15 minutes or more. For stronger labels try heating the vinegar in the microwave or on the stove. Then, remove the container and gently peel off the label: if it has been soaked long enough, it should lift off easily. If not, let the containers soak a little longer. This method is ideal for most glass containers, but also for metal cans.

2. Hot Water

The simplest and most economical method for removing labels from glass bottles and jars. As we all know, water is a natural solvent and also a great way to remove stickers and labels from containers. To do this, simply immerse the containers in a basin or sink full of hot water (the hotter the better), for about an hour or overnight, being careful not to burn yourself with too hot water. For especially tough labels, add a little dish soap or laundry detergent. Once this is done, the labels will be adequately soaked in water and will come off quickly: any adhesive residue can then be removed with a wet sponge.

3. Nail Polish Remover or Rubbing Alcohol

You can simply use rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, and other alcohol-based products to remove labels from glass jars. Soak a rag, paper towel, or cotton ball in rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, lighter fluid, or even cheap vodka: then place it on the front labels or stickers for about 15 minutes to let it be absorbed, then remove the cloth and gently remove the label from the container. Using a sponge soaked in alcohol, remove any residual glue on the container. For more stubborn labels, try nail polish remover (acetone), being careful not to stain your clothes.

4. Hairdryer

Try heating the adhesive label and then peeling it off the container: this may be the fastest method, especially suitable for thin labels. Turn the hair dryer on full power, then run it back and forth across the surface of the label for about 30 seconds to loosen the glue. If the label is too stubborn, continue heating in 30 seconds intervals until it gives way. A soapy sponge can then be used to remove any residual adhesive glue. This is a great way to remove labels from glass jars and bottles with paper labels, but is not recommended for plastic containers, which may melt from the heat applied.

5. Razor Blades

If you don't have any other methods you can try to remove the labels with a razor blade, being careful with your hands: this is a slightly more dangerous method than the previous ones. To do this, simply hold the razor blade at an angle, gently place it under the edge or corner of the label you want to remove, then push until part of it is removed. Continue by removing the rest of the label from the detached part – it may happen that the label comes off in pieces, so simply repeat the process until you have removed everything. This method is not recommended for tin and plastic cans, because you could scratch the surfaces, but only for glass ones.