What is the magic ingredient you add to hot water to soak labels off?

http://www.hometalk.com/diy/clean/house/the-quickest-and-easiest-way-to-remove-labels-from-jars-2237690

Vinegar works for me. You might also try Goo Gone or WD 40.

White Vinegar will do the job

i soak mine in hot water which removed most of the paper part of the label then use rubbing alcohol to remove sticky part. I use the rubbing alcohol on a rag or q-tips depending how big the area is.

Try a drop of dish soap or a little cooking oil. I use my fingernails to scrape off stubborn parts that don't come off easily, but in a pinch a spray of WD-40 will get it off! Good luck!

Any residue left after labels have been torn off I spray with furniture polish (have also been told that WD40 does the same). Leave for on for a minute or rub gently and you will find it just lifts off.

Thanks to all for the great suggestions!