Is there an easy way to remove graphics from glass bottles?

Question

Wondering if anyone knows of an easy way to remove advertising graphics from glass bottles? I’ve acquired a bunch of old soda bottles…love the old time bottles but some of the newer ones I’d like to remove the graphics and repurpose - thanks!

Julies1949 · Answer

soak in a solution of CLR and water. see this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTOBOiRDDA8

Carol Morrison · Answer

If they are old, the labels add to their value and I personally think they are more fun with the various designs.

Carol Morrison · Answer

I really don't have an answer, but I've been using white vinegar for so many other things lately, that I would give it a try too. Also you can add baking soda, salt or a tiny bit of Dawn liquid soap. I've killed weeds with it, just cleaned my copper sink with it, and actually use the plain vinegar on my very dry skin. Good luck- Check out an Heinz Vinegar site for many uses, or Hometalk too.

Marti Keller · Answer

Painted soda bottles are a collectible called Applied Colored Labels and are highly saught for their graphics   The days when Coke and Pepsi had competition from 'mom and pop' distributors.

Gabrielle Falk · Answer

If the bottles are labelled, paper or plastic, then they should be removable with either a solvent or in the case of old fashioned ones, soaking in warm, soapy water. More recent adhesives are harder to remove and will require the use of some form of solvent (you could try nail polish remover?). If the bottles are from - say the 1940's era - they may be printed and fired on to the glass. Therefore any attempts to remove would be extremely difficult. It all depends what you want to do with the bottles. Sometimes, rather than soak bottles, I have used eucalyptus oil (or tea tree oil) to remove labels (can u get in the US of A?). Years ago, if you had a lovely (empty) wine bottle or even a bottle that was seen to be decorative you would put a candle in the neck and let the candle wax drip down. Soooo trendy.

Chrystal Petit-Pas · Answer

Try rubbing alcohol for printed on graphics

Jennie Herrick · Answer

When I read your question my first reaction was 'NOOOOOOoooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!' Vintage Soda Bottles are SO COLLECTABLE and highly sought after these days. However that also depends on their condition. If their graphics are all scratched up and damaged, the bottle won't be worth as much, if anything at all, compared to one with a perfect graphic. So, with that said..... Any bottles that you have that have graphics that are damaged, I would go ahead and try to remove the graphics. Now, on to my suggestion as to how to accomplish this. First thing you should try is some Acetone. Not the nail polish remover, but the kind you buy at the hardware store. It's only a couple of dollars for a gallon, so it's not a big deal if this doesn't work. I would pour some of the acetone in a shallow pan like a cake pan and pour the acetone in the bottom of the pan about 2' deep and soak the bottles for a while to see if the graphics come off. Remember to do this in a very well ventilated area because the fumes are toxic. If that doesn't work, wash the bottles thoroughly in hot soapy water and allow them to dry and move on to the next suggestion which is, try Paint Remover. Personally I would use Naval Jelly (I think that's what it's called). It's a gel paint remover that you paint on, let sit, then scrape off. Easy Peasy! I hope I was able to help! Good Luck!!

Julia Taymon · Answer

Try goo gone. I worked in daycERE AND IT ALWAYS GOT STICKERS OFF.

Marsha Martin · Answer

If you go to Pintrest under my name you will see a section for removing ink from plastic containers. There might be something there that can help you.

Barb · Answer

I believe you should check on what they are worth before you do anything.

Duv310660 · Answer

As I like to point out, the solvent that works depends upon the adherent that was used - there is no single answer to all possible sticky-situations, grasshopper. Try googling for ways to remove labels and try another until it works. Besides commercial cleaners for glue, I've heard of people using WD40, turpentine, acetone, vinegar, alcohol... my first try would be to score the label well and soak for and extended time in hot water and soap. I used to be able to get any wine bottle label off - intact - for my record-keeping this way; tho different bottles took differing amounts of soak-time.

Jennie Herrick · Answer

Sorry for the mistake. It's been several years since I've used it. No one is perfect or can remember everything perfectly 100% of the time. I'm sure you have misspoken or suggested one product or whatever thinking you were remembering correctly, only to find out later that your suggestion was incorrect. You just hope that the person correcting you is POLITE ABOUT IT and not RUDE.

Cindy Caretto · Answer

I have some drinking glasses that have 'painted-on' graphics. I too would like to remove the advertisement so that I can use the glasses. Help!

SusieQ · Answer

Glad you asked this question. I, too, am seeking an easy way to do this. I'm going to try Diana's suggestion this weekend! Thanks for sharing.

Julia Taymon · Answer

Try goo-gone. I worked in day care and goo gone always took off stickers Good luckk

Is there an easy way to remove graphics from glass bottles?

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Is there an easy way to remove graphics from glass bottles?

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