Easy Ways To Remove Stickers From Book Covers Without Causing Any Damage

Any true book lover knows that caring for books can be a bit finicky, especially when it comes to the covers. Some book covers are delicate because they are made of paper, while others may have a matte finish or texture that can be easily ruined. Whether you are going to be placing your books on a coffee table, in a home library, or converting them into wall art, stickers are one of the most annoying issues to deal with. When you thrift books, you will probably find a wide range of stickers stuck haphazardly on the book cover. Unfortunately, this might also be the case with books from a bookstore or even online orders. The good news is, it's actually easy to remove these stickers from any type of book cover without causing damage if you know how. 

The exact removal method will depend on the type of book cover you are trying to remove stickers from. You may also try different methods depending on what you have on hand, how often you need to remove stickers from book covers, and how much you want to invest in the process. For example, you can use a hair dryer to remove sticker residue from most book cover types, but not everyone has one on hand. On the other hand, Goo Gone or other oil-based removal methods are good for people who regularly remove stickers, but they may not be the best choice for matte book covers.

For hardcore book enthusiasts, stamp collectors, and crafters, an adhesive eraser is a reliable, durable option for regular sticker removal for all types of book covers. Similar to a pencil eraser, an adhesive eraser is sold in craft stores to remove glue and other adhesives from paper surfaces. Book collectors on Reddit recommend it as a reliable method for removal. In addition, product reviews from retailers like Michael's praise it for the ability to seamlessly remove sticker adhesive from surfaces like paper, cardstock, and leather. Gently rub the eraser over the sticker residue until it is all lifted away.

One of the most popular recommendations for removing sticker adhesive from books is Goo Gone. It is recommended by several Reddit users who claim to have backgrounds in book selling and collecting. Plus, sticker removal is an official recommendation from the Goo Gone company itself. For best results, spray some Goo Gone on a paper towel or cotton swab and then rub it onto the sticker until the area is clean. However, you should never use Goo Gone on matte or antique book covers because it will most likely stain.

You can use a hair dryer to remove sticker residue from a range of surfaces, including glass and books. While some people are concerned about applying heat to paper, reviews consistently state that this method works like a charm. You can safely use a hair dryer to remove sticker residue by aiming the hair dryer at the sticker as you slowly peel it from the book. If it gets too hot for you to peel with your fingers, take a break. It is generally considered safe for most cover types, but you should consult with a professional before using this method on antique or collectible books.

A kneaded eraser is a style of art eraser that does not flake off like a pencil eraser as you erase. It is a pliable rubber that has a texture similar to the consistency of sticky tack. You can use these specialized erasers to gently rub the sticker residue away from the cover without causing damage or staining. This method can take a bit of work, but it is suitable for any cover type. Some people claim that a standard eraser works the same, but most people prefer a kneaded eraser for cleanliness. Pink erasers have been reported to leave color behind on certain types of covers.

If you don't have Goo Gone on hand, lighter fluid is another oil-based option that softens the sticker residue. The oil softens and releases the adhesive, allowing you to simply wipe it away from the surface of the book cover. While this method works, it should not be used on delicate books or on books with a matte finish. In addition, it can leave the scent of lighter fluid on the book, instead of the more pleasant citrus scent of Goo Gone.

Among the many nail polish remover hacks that you can try around the house, removing stickers is one tried and true hack that really works, and it's safe for some books. Make sure you select an acetone nail polish remover. Apply a small amount of nail polish remover to a cotton swab or paper towel and rub it on the sticker in a circular motion until the residue is completely gone. This method is best for hardcover books, as the abrasiveness of nail polish remover can damage paper covers. It can also make the ink run.

Rubbing alcohol is used in the same way as nail polish remover to remove sticker residue from books. As such, it also has many of the same risks. This method will remove the sticker, but it can also cause staining from the sticker ink or blur the ink from the cover. It is not recommended for paper covers because it can rub through the cover and cause irreparable damage. For hardcover books, however, rubbing alcohol can take a lot of the effort out of sticker removal. You can test on the inner jacket before applying it to the outer cover to check for potential damage.

Un-du tape and label remover is a product that is specifically designed to remove labels from surfaces, including books. The applicator has a scraper attached to it so you can apply the serum while gently scraping the sticker away, leaving a clean, damage-free cover. The product is recommended by book dealers and librarians alike. The company has even won awards for the "all-in-one" removal system that is used in libraries around the country. The company claims it is safe for all cover types.