How To Remove Double-Sided Foam Tape

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Double-sided foam tape is an effective adhesive product used for a variety of household jobs, including hanging anything from posters to mirrors. Since this tape is a strong adhesive, you may very well run into some issues when trying to remove it. Simply pulling at an edge of the tape will cause significant damage to the wall or wood on which the tape is stuck. The keys to successfully removing this tape are taking your time and having the right tools on hand.

Step 1

Turn the hairdryer on medium and hold it 2 to 3 inches away from the tape for several minutes. Test the tape to see if the adhesive that is holding the tape on the surface is softening. If it isn't soft, hold the hairdryer on the tape for longer. If you are using hot water, put on your rubber gloves and pour hot water into the bowl. Wet a cloth with hot water and hold the cloth on the tape until the cloth is cool. Re-wet the cloth with hot water and apply it to the tape again. Repeat until the adhesive is soft.

Step 2

Pull up the edge of the foam tape using a putty knife or scraper. Once you have the edge lifted, gently pull the tape off with your fingers. Do not pull it quickly or pull too hard, as this may cause damage to the surface of the wall or wood. If the adhesive is still too hard to remove, repeat one of the methods in step 1. Continue pulling the foam until the tape is completely removed.

Step 3

Rub the residual adhesive into a ball using your fingers, and remove it from the surface of the wall or wood. If there is any remaining tape residue remaining, pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth and scrub the adhesive until it comes off. Wipe with a clean damp cloth and allow the area to air dry.