One of the side effects of masking tape being left on NYTEK® for a period of time, e.g., when a plastic cover is inadvertently taped to a chairs upholstery during packaging, is that some of the adhesive remains on the surface of the material after removal. These rubbery adhesives do not clean well with soap and water or spray cleaners.
Cleaning the Tape Adhesive
- Remove as much adhesive as possible by applying fresh masking tape to the affected area, rubbing it lightly, and then pulling it off rapidly.
- The new tape will not form a strong bond to the NYTEK® surface, but will stick to the adhesive residue on it and will pull some of it off.
- Working with a small area at a time, wet the edge of the adhesive with a clean white cloth with mineral spirits.*
- Gently roll the adhesive into a ball and pull it off the NYTEK® surface.
- After the adhesive has been removed, clean the affected area with mineral spirits and a new clean white cloth. Wipe off any excess and allow the piece to air dry. Some adhesive remains if the affected area still feels sticky or has a hazy appearance. Repeat the process until the NYTEK® is restored to its original color and gloss.
*Mineral spirits is a clear water white solvent sold in hardware and paint stores, often as paint thinner for oil-based paints. A combustible liquid, it is a distillate of petroleum and has a mild odor similar to kerosene. Keep it away from ignition sources, use with adequate ventilation and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid alcohols, ketones such as acetone, and nail polish removers.
