How to Remove Stickers from Your Wood Floors:

In today’s dynamic environment, business owners and homeowners face unique challenges in maintaining their premises, including removing stickers from wood floors.

This is particularly relevant for businesses in the post-COVID-19 era, where social distancing stickers are now redundant.

Meanwhile, homeowners might deal with different types of stickers. This article aims to assist both groups in effectively and safely removing stickers without damaging your wood floors.

Understanding the Sticker Problem

COVID-19 stickers were essential for businesses to maintain social distancing and other safety protocols. However, their removal can leave behind stubborn residues that damage the floor finish. Homeowners might face similar issues with decorative or accidental sticker placements. The key challenge in both scenarios is the adhesive’s reaction to the wood floor’s lacquer.

Removing Stickers: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Initial Removal: Gently peel off the stickers. If they come off easily, you’re off to a good start. However, some residue will likely remain.
2. Neutral Cleaner Application: Use a neutral cleaner suitable for wood floors, as flooring expert Pierre De Wet suggested. Any safe wood floor cleaner will suffice if you don’t have a specialised product. Dilute it following the instructions and apply it with a sprayer for controlled coverage.
3. Agitation and Cleaning: Agitate the area where you have applied the cleaner with gentle motions. This step helps in loosening and lifting the sticky residue. Be cautious to avoid damaging the wood finish.
4. Addressing Tough Residues: Consider using a stronger or warmer mixture if the sticker residue is particularly stubborn. Test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.

Specific Tips for Business Owners

1. Dealing with COVID-19 Stickers: Given their widespread use in commercial spaces, the residue left by COVID-19 stickers may be more extensive. Use the methods mentioned above but be prepared for a potentially longer and more repetitive process.
2. Professional Assessment: Consider consulting a professional for large areas or delicate wood floors. They can offer tailored solutions that minimise the risk of damage.

Advice for Homeowners

1. Handling Various Sticker Types: Homeowners might encounter a wider variety of stickers. The same cleaning principles apply, but be mindful of the sticker type and the age of the adhesive, as older stickers may be more challenging to remove.
2. Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance of wood floors can prevent the adhesive from bonding too strongly, making future sticker removal easier.

FAQs on Sticker Removal from Wood Floors

1. What is the safest way to remove stickers from wood floors without damaging the finish?

Answers: The safest method is to gently peel off the sticker and clean the area with a neutral cleaner formulated for wood floors. Applying the cleaner sparingly and gently agitating the area to lift the residue is important. Avoid strong chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the floor’s finish.

2. Can I use a hair dryer on stubborn stickers to remove them from my wood floor?

Answers: Using a hairdryer can help loosen the adhesive of a sticker, making it easier to peel off. However, it’s crucial to use the hairdryer on a low heat setting and to keep it moving to avoid overheating any spot on the wood floor, which can damage the finish.

3. Are there any natural remedies for removing sticker residue from wood floors?

Answers: Yes, you can use a solution of vinegar and water (in equal parts) to help dissolve the adhesive. Apply solution to the residue, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently wipe away. Always best to test this solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t harm the floor’s finish. This is also not something we would recommend, but it is on Google, and I’m all about finding all the info for you!

4. What should I do if there’s discolouration on the wood floor after removing a sticker?

Answers: If there’s discolouration, it may indicate damage to the finish or wood itself. The best course of action is to consult a professional flooring specialist who can assess the damage & recommend a suitable solution, such as refinishing the affected area.

Whether you’re a business owner dealing with the aftermath of COVID-19 safety measures or a homeowner addressing accidental sticker placements, the key to successful removal lies in gentle, patient, and methodical cleaning. Using the right products and techniques will ensure your wood floors remain undamaged and continue to add warmth and beauty to your space.

Remember, it’s always safer to consult a professional when in doubt.

Also, our knowledge centre is excellent for finding help with other problems. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, send me a message, and I’ll see if I can help you: tracey@artofclean.co.uk. 

Written by Tracey Gilbey, Marketing

For further advice or information on our Carpet and Soft Furnishing care, please don’t hesitate to contact the Art of Clean team on 01223 901549 in Cambridge. Our services include Carpet Cleaning, Upholstery Cleaning, oriental and area Rug Cleaning, Curtain Cleaning, Patio and Driveway Pressure washing, Leather Cleaning, Stone and Tile Floor Cleaning and Wood Floor Sanding and Restoration. We also supply new flooring and carpets through our sister company Art of Flooring. Farthings Cambridge provides our Dry Cleaning service.