How to Make a Sticker Reusable?

Written By: Nemilou Despuez | Published on November 5, 2024

Do you have favorite stickers you want to reapply to another surface but don't want to risk ruining them? If yes, this article can show you how to remove stickers without damaging them so you can use them again.

We also include tips on how to restore the stickiness of your stickers using some tried-and-tested methods.

How to Remove Stickers Without Ruining Them

Below are some methods for removing stickers without damaging them. This way, you can store them for future use or reposition them immediately onto another surface.

Apply Heat
The heating method is ideal if the stickers are applied to a metal, glass, or plastic surface. Simply use a hairdryer or heat gun to soften the adhesive and remove the stickers, keeping them intact and reusable.

Heat the sticker for 30 seconds to two minutes. Use a low heat setting, as too much heat can damage the sticker.

Once you notice the adhesive has softened, slowly peel the sticker from one edge. You may need a flat tool (like a credit card or a sharp pocket knife) to lift one corner of the sticker.

Apply more heat if necessary until you can peel the sticker off completely.

Freeze Them
This method is ideal for waterproof and cold-resistant stickers on plastic bottles, metal containers, and glass jars. Wrap the item in a plastic bag to prevent the sticker from getting wet, then place it in the freezer for a few hours.

After a few hours in the freezer, remove the item and use a plastic scraper or a thin blade to peel off the sticker.

Use a String
This technique may preserve some adhesive, allowing you to reposition the sticker on a new surface. You can do this with string, thread, or dental floss.

Slide the string under the sticker's edge and gently move it back and forth as if you were "sawing" the sticker off the surface.

You can heat the sticker before using a string to make it easier to peel off. By softening the adhesion between the sticker and the surface it is attached to, it's easier to remove the sticker in a way that it remains intact.

How to Make Stickers Sticky Again?

When removing old stickers, you also lose some of their stickiness. Fortunately, there are tried-and-tested ways to restore this.

Apply Spray Adhesive
This is arguably the easiest way to restore your sticker's adhesive. However, ensure the back of your sticker is clean before applying the spray adhesive (e.g., Gorilla Glue or 3M), which you can get in most hardware and craft stores.

After spraying this product on the back of your old sticker, allow it to air dry, then reapply the sticker to another surface.

Use Double-Sided Tape
Put your sticker face down, then apply one side of the double-adhesive tape to its back. Next, peel off the tape's protective backing so you can reapply the sticker onto another surface.

Since double-adhesive tapes are pressure-sensitive products, pressing your sticker firmly during the application process is important to make it stick and remove any air bubbles.

Use a Paper Sticker
This technique is ideal if you want to make your old sticker reusable and extra durable, allowing it to withstand multiple applications.

Begin by applying a small amount of glue to the back of the sticker, then press it onto the paper sticker’s adhesive side. Wait a few minutes for the glue to air dry. (Note: You can skip this step if your sticker has maintained a fair amount of adhesive residue. You can place it onto the paper sticker directly.)

Next, apply a thin layer of clear adhesive film to protect your old sticker and give it a more professional finish.

Press the sticker between two flat surfaces (such as a stack of books) to ensure the adhesive bonds nicely. Finally, cut the new sticker based on its original shape or outline.

How to Transfer Old Stickers to Another Surface?

Even with proper removal and restoration of the adhesive, old stickers may not perform as well as brand-new ones. Nevertheless, you can still reapply them to a new surface without worrying about poor adhesion by following this step-by-step guide:

Ensure the New Surface Is Clean and Dry Check for dust, grime, moisture, and other impurities that can interfere with the sticker's ability to stick.

Attach the Sticker Position the sticker on the new surface and see if the placement looks great and balanced. Once you're satisfied, peel off its backing and press it firmly onto the surface, starting from the center. Then, work toward the edges to prevent wrinkles and bubbles. You can use a credit card or a squeegee to ensure smooth application.

Final Touches Apply a clear sealant or laminate to protect the sticker's surface from moisture, scratches, and grime. Next, clean the surrounding area and remove any adhesive residue so the sticker looks neat and polished.

What if the Stickers Keep Peeling Off?

If your sticker keeps peeling off even though you have tried the methods explained above, there are a few things you can do.

Try using a stronger adhesive.
Inspect the new surface. Dirt, moisture, oil, and other impurities can prevent the adhesive from working properly.
If all else fails, it might be time to buy a new sticker.

Conclusion

When stickers get old or lose their stickiness, you don't necessarily have to throw them away. With a few simple steps, you can restore their adhesion and reapply them onto a new surface, something that businesses occasionally do with the stickers they use for storefronts, glass windows, and promotional products.