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How to Remove Paper Labels From Glossy Paperback Books

Books can be a prized possession for readers of all ages. One of the most annoying things about receiving a new or used book is the paper price tag on the glossy paperback cover. You may wish to remove the label to withhold the price tag on a gift book or simply to preserve the original integrity of your favorite novel. Many people leave the paper labels on their books for fear of ripping the glossy paperback cover. However, there are six ways to safely remove labels from paperback books without damaging the cover or leaving behind a sticky residue.

Things You'll Need

  • Blow-dryer
  • WD-40
  • Cotton swab
  • Adhesive remover
  • Smooth cloth
  • Lighter fluid
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Packing tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Heat the label with a blow-dryer for one minute. Starting from one corner, peel the label off of the book.

    • 2

      Spray WD-40 onto a cotton swab. Dab the cotton swab onto the label. Let WD-40 sit on the label for three minutes before lifting the label from the book.

    • 3

      Apply an adhesive remover, such as Goo Gone or Un-Du, to a cloth, then wipe the cloth onto the label until the book surface is smooth and free of sticker residue.

    • 4

      Pour a small amount of lighter fluid onto a smooth cloth and rub the label off of the book with the cloth.

    • 5

      Dip a smooth cloth into a small amount of rubbing alcohol and use the cloth to rub the label away.

    • 6

      Wrap a piece of clear packing tape, sticky side up, around two to three fingers, depending on the size of the label. Place tape firmly onto the label and lift up to remove the label. Repeat this process with an unused area of the packing tape until the book label is gone.

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