Discover how to create your own homemade Goo Gone with simple, cost-effective ingredients that avoid harsh chemicals. This natural adhesive remover is perfect for tackling stubborn sticky residues around your home, leaving behind a fresh scent and a safe environment.
Recently, I faced a common household challenge: removing old contact paper and its sticky residue from my kitchen drawers. The commercial Goo Gone I initially reached for contained harsh chemicals like kerosene and emitted unpleasant fumes, making me hesitant to use it near my food preparation areas. Instead, I decided to craft my own DIY version — a natural, safe, and effective alternative that works just as well.
This homemade adhesive remover quickly dissolves sticky residues without the need for vigorous scrubbing. Plus, it smells much better than store-bought options, thanks to the addition of natural lemon essential oil. If you’re interested in eco-friendly cleaning solutions, be sure to check out my other DIY recipes like DIY Dusting Spray, Homemade Fabric Softener, Dawn Powerwash Substitute, and Homemade Lysol.
What You’ll Need
- Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil
- Baking Soda
- Lemon Essential Oil (high-quality, pure essential oil recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Goo Gone
Step 1: Combine ½ cup of baking soda with ½ cup of vegetable or olive oil in a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Stir thoroughly until the baking soda is fully integrated into the oil, forming a smooth paste.
Step 3: Add 10 to 15 drops of lemon essential oil to enhance fragrance and boost cleaning power.
Step 4: Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined. Transfer the mixture into a clean, airtight container or a small jar for storage.
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How to Use Your Homemade Adhesive Remover
Apply a small amount of the mixture directly onto the sticky residue. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes to loosen the adhesive. Afterwards, wipe the area clean with a damp cloth or paper towel. For kitchen items or surfaces, I prefer washing them with warm, soapy water afterward to remove any remaining traces. This method is highly effective, often taking only a few minutes to eliminate stubborn residues, as I experienced when cleaning out my kitchen drawers.
Suitable Uses for Your DIY Adhesive Remover
- Removing sticky labels and price tags from glass, plastic, and metal surfaces
- Eliminating tape residue from walls and furniture
- Removing old decals and stickers from vehicles or appliances
- Breaking down chewing gum stuck on floors or furniture
- Cleaning up glue spills and dried adhesive patches
While commercial products claim to handle crayons, permanent markers, or even clothing stains, I recommend testing on an inconspicuous area first to ensure safety. This versatile homemade remover can be stored in glass jars with labels, and due to its natural composition, it’s safe for numerous household applications.
Additional DIY Cleaning Solutions & Hacks
- Homemade Magic Eraser for pennies
- Lemon Vinegar Cleaner (using real lemon juice for freshness)
- 26 Genius Vinegar Cleaning Hacks from a Cleaning Expert
- Hydrogen Peroxide Tricks to Boost Your Cleaning Power
Recipe Summary:
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes | Servings: Enough for multiple uses | Estimated Cost: Under $2
Equipment Needed
- 1 small bowl or mixing cup
Ingredients
- ½ cup baking soda
- ½ cup vegetable or olive oil
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
Instructions
- Combine baking soda and oil in a bowl, stirring until smooth.
- Add lemon essential oil and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to a container with a lid for storage.
- To use, apply a small amount onto sticky areas, wait 5-10 minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth or rinse with water.
Notes
This natural adhesive remover works best on non-porous surfaces. Always perform a patch test before applying extensively, especially on delicate materials or painted surfaces. Store in a cool, dry place, and shake gently before each use for optimal results.