How do I figure out what type of adhesive is on my dress?

When trying to determine what kind of adhesive you’re dealing with, it is important to note the texture, color, and type of material of the tape.

How do I remove the adhesive tape stain?

Using a cloth to protect the fabric, apply a solvent that corresponds to the type of adhesive. Then, lightly scrape the stained area with a plastic knife or spatula. Finally, rinse with cold water, dry the fabric, and launder the dress.

WikiLaundry > Stains > Adhesive tape > Cocktail dress

7 Steps to Easily Remove Adhesive Tape Stains from your Cocktail Dress

Adhesive tape stains can be difficult to deal with, especially on a special occasion cocktail dress. But don’t worry – with our 7 easy steps, you can get that stubborn adhesive out of your dress without damaging the fabric.

Updated 20 Jun 2023

By Cyryl Wozniak

Step 1: Analyze Stain

In order to remove the adhesive from your cocktail dress, you need to know what type of adhesive it is. Start by taking a close look at the tape and identify type of material it is. Is it a paper or plastic type of tape? Is it transparent or colored? When trying to determine what kind of adhesive you’re dealing with, it is important to note texture, color, and type of material of tape.

Step 2: Prepare the Area

Once you have identified the type of tape, you can begin to prepare the area for removal. Make sure to cover the area of the stain with a clean cloth that will protect the fabric from any damage that may occur during the removal process. Be sure to use a cloth that will not transfer any color, as this could potentially discolor or damage the fabric.

Step 3: Apply Solvent

Now that the area is protected, you are ready to apply a solvent. Depending on the type of adhesive you’re dealing with, use rubbing alcohol, vinegar, mineral spirits or even peanut butter. Gently dab solvent onto the stain and allow it to work its magic. Allow a few minutes for the solvent to penetrate deep into the adhesive.

Step 4: Scrape Away Stains

After allowing solvent to work its magic, you can begin to scrape away the adhesive. Lightly scrape the stained area with a plastic knife or spatula. It is important to use a scraping tool that is as gentle as possible in order to avoid damaging fabric.

Step 5: Rinse with Cold Water

Once the adhesive has been removed, you can rinse the area with cold water. Be sure to carefully dab the area with a towel, as rubbing the fabric could cause damage to fabric. After rinsing, you can use a vacuum cleaner to suck away any excess moisture.

Step 6: Dry the Fabric

Finally, you can hang the dress up to air dry. Make sure to place the dress somewhere that gets plenty of sunlight and air circulation. Once the fabric is dry, inspect the area to make sure all of the adhesive has been removed.

Step 7: Launder Dress

Once the fabric is completely dry, you are ready to launder the dress. Depending on the fabric of your dress, you can either hand wash or machine wash dress according to the care instructions. After laundering, hang dress to dry again. You should now have a stain-free cocktail dress!

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