Duct tape is recognized for its long-lasting durability and strong bond. It is composed of resilient plastic, rubber-based adhesive, and fabric mesh for added strength. Temporarily repairing convertible tops with duct tape can leave glue residue on the outer materials. Duct tape glue collects airborne dust, and causes surfaces to appear dingy. The longer tape residue remains on materials, the more dirt it collects. Fortunately, basic supplies can effectively remove duct tape glue from convertible tops.
Things You’ll Need
- Dull butter knife
- Waterless hand cleaner
- Nylon scrub brush
- 2 paper towels
- Water displacing petroleum lubricant
- Cotton cloth
- Warm water
- Cotton towel
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Scrape off the excess glue with a dull butter knife. Remove as much residue from the fabric as possible.
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Apply waterless hand cleaner to the glue residue.
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Scrub the affected area of the convertible top with a nylon scrub brush. Wipe away the loosened glue with a paper towel.
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Inspect the convertible top for remaining glue. If sticky residue remains, spray water-displacing petroleum lubricant on a clean paper towel. Wipe the damp paper towel over the residue.
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Moisten a clean cotton cloth with warm water. Blot the convertible top with the damp cloth to rinse away the water displacing petroleum lubricant and any remaining glue residue.
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Blot the convertible top with a clean cotton towel until it is completely dry.
Tips & Warnings
- You can substitute isopropyl alcohol for the water displacing petroleum lubricant. Test the alcohol first on a hidden area of the fabric.
- Test the waterless hand cleaner on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure no damage or discoloration occurs.
- Test the water displacing petroleum lubricant on an inconspicuous area of the fabric to prevent damage or discoloration.