Omar Khalid
Many plastic items, such as TV remotes and other electronics with hard outer cases, have a soft plastic coating that can deteriorate and become sticky over time. This is due to the rubber in the plastic breaking down and returning to its original liquid state. This process is called rubber reversion and is caused by the breakdown of the polymer chains that give rubber its strength and elasticity. While it is impossible to stop this process, there are several methods to remediate sticky plastic.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for stickiness | Soft-touch coating on plastic surfaces has deteriorated |
| Examples of affected items | Old toys, dolls, game console controllers, TV remotes, audio mixers, binoculars, camera, centre console, laser range finder, radio, heater remote, etc. |
| Cleaning methods | Baking soda and water, dish detergent, Murphy's oil soap, clear hand cleaner, Goo Gone wipes, rubbing alcohol, acetone, orange essential oil, lighter fluid, naphtha, talcum powder, white spirit, IPA, etc. |
| Notes on cleaning methods | Some methods may remove colour or labels, damage certain types of plastics, or require multiple applications. Always test on a small area first. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic coatings break down over time
Soft-touch plastics, which have a matt, slightly rubberized soft texture, are particularly prone to this type of degradation. The rubberized coating that manufacturers use to give products a more premium and classy feel starts to deteriorate, leaving a sticky residue on the surface. This can happen to a variety of plastic items, including TV remotes, game console controllers, binoculars, and camera parts.
The stickiness can be challenging to remove, and simply wiping it away will not solve the problem. This is because the rubber underneath will continue to break down and produce more sticky residue. To effectively deal with sticky plastic, the deteriorated coating must be cleaned off entirely.
There are various methods and solvents that can be used to clean off the sticky residue. Some people have found success with baking soda and water, while others have used products like Murphy's Oil Soap, WD40, or Goo Gone wipes. Solvents like acetone, nail polish remover, and alcohol can also be effective, but they may damage certain types of plastics, so they should be used with caution. It is always a good idea to test any solvent on a small, hidden area of the plastic first to ensure it does not cause further damage.
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How to clean sticky plastic
When plastic becomes sticky, it's often due to an issue called 'plasticizer migration'. Plasticizers are chemicals added to plastics to make them flexible, and over time, these can rise to the surface, causing a sticky or greasy feel. This often happens with older plastic items, especially when they are exposed to heat or sunlight, as these can accelerate the migration process. Oxidation can also be a factor, as the plastic reacts with oxygen in the air, causing a breakdown in the polymer structure, which can result in a sticky surface.
To clean sticky plastic, you'll want to start by identifying the affected items and determining if they are safe to clean. Some plastic items, especially older ones, may contain harmful chemicals that can leach out when cleaned, so it's important to take caution. If the sticky plastic is on a valuable or irreplaceable item, you may want to consult a professional restorer before attempting any cleaning methods.
Once you've determined it's safe to proceed, gather some basic cleaning supplies: a mild detergent or soap, warm water, and soft cloths. You'll also need a bucket or basin, and possibly some rubber gloves to protect your hands. Start by mixing a mild detergent with warm water, creating a gentle cleaning solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can further damage the plastic and may also be harmful to your health.
Soak the soft cloth in the cleaning solution and wring it out so it's damp, but not dripping. Gently wipe the sticky plastic surface with the cloth, taking care not to apply too much pressure, as this could push the stickiness further into the plastic's pores. Rinse the cloth frequently in the warm water to avoid transferring dirt or stickiness back onto the plastic. For heavily soiled areas, you may need to repeat this process several times, working in small sections at a time.
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Using solvents to remove stickiness
Plastic can become sticky due to the breakdown of its soft-touch coating over time. This can be caused by storing plastic items in extreme temperatures, such as attics, basements, or garages. To remove the stickiness from plastic, there are various solvents that can be used.
One commonly suggested method is to use rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. To do this, apply the alcohol to a cloth or cotton ball and press it against the sticky area. Allow it to penetrate and dissolve the adhesive, then wipe away. It is important to test this method on a small area first, as alcohol can be ineffective in removing certain types of stickiness and may even push the sticky substance around.
Another potential solution is to use baking soda. Create a paste by adding water to the baking soda and apply it to the sticky surface. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then wipe it away. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and can help remove the residue without scratching the plastic.
Vegetable oil or olive oil can also be effective in removing sticky residue. Apply a small amount of oil to the sticky area and let it sit for several hours or overnight. Then, wipe away the residue and oil with a dry cloth, and wash the area with soapy water to remove any remaining oil.
Additionally, orange oil is a popular solvent for removing adhesive residue. Soak a rag in orange oil and use it to wipe down the sticky plastic surface. Then, rinse the surface with water to remove any remaining oil.
Other potential solvents include lighter fluid or naphtha, which have been used to remove glue and sticky residue from pinball machines. However, it is important to test these solvents on a small, hidden area of the plastic first, as they may degrade certain types of plastic.
When using any solvent, it is important to exercise caution and always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that it does not damage the plastic. Some solvents may be too harsh and can further break down the plastic, making the stickiness worse.
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Storing plastic in extreme temperatures
Storing plastic items in extreme temperatures, such as in attics, basements, or garages, can accelerate the deterioration of the plastic, causing it to become sticky. This is because the soft-touch coatings on plastic items can break down over time due to exposure to heat, leading to a sticky or tacky surface.
To prevent this, it is advisable to store plastic items in temperature-controlled environments, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Keeping plastics in consistently cool, dry places can help slow down the deterioration process and prevent stickiness.
Additionally, when storing plastic items for extended periods, consider using breathable storage containers or bags to allow for air circulation and prevent moisture buildup, which could also contribute to the breakdown of the plastic.
It is also worth noting that some plastics may be more susceptible to temperature extremes than others. For example, soft-touch plastics, which have a rubberized or matte finish, are particularly prone to degradation and stickiness over time, even when stored in controlled environments.
Therefore, if you plan to store plastic items in extreme temperatures, it is recommended to research the specific type of plastic and its temperature tolerance to ensure it can withstand the storage conditions without deteriorating. Taking these precautions will help maintain the condition and longevity of your plastic items.
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Soft-touch plastics are likely to get sticky
Soft-touch plastics are used to create a rubbery touch that feels classy and elegant. These coatings also help hide surface flaws from the injection-molding process. However, these coatings can deteriorate and become sticky due to factors such as heat and dust accumulation.
You can try to fix sticky soft-touch plastics using various methods and household ingredients. One popular method is to use isopropyl alcohol, which is effective in removing sticky coatings. You can rub the plastic surface with a paper towel soaked in isopropyl alcohol and then wipe it off with a dry paper towel. Repeat this process a few times until the coating comes off.
Another method is to use a mixture of baking soda and water. Create a paste by mixing equal parts of baking soda and water, and then scrub it onto the sticky plastic surface using your fingers or a soft cloth. Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth and rinse the item thoroughly.
Additionally, orange oil is a popular solvent for removing adhesive residue and can be effective in cleaning sticky plastics. Soak a rag in orange oil and wipe down the plastic surface, followed by a rinse. This method has been known to smoothen and reduce the tackiness of soft-touch plastics.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic can become sticky due to the breakdown of its soft-touch coating, which happens over time. This is common in old toys, dolls, game console controllers, and other plastic items with a rubbery texture.
There are several methods to fix sticky plastic:
- Using a solution of baking soda and water.
- Cleaning with a cloth dampened with alcohol or stronger alcohols like IPA. However, this may remove colour from certain types of coloured plastics and printed labels, so test it on a small area first.
- Using commercial adhesive removers like Goo Gone or home remedies like orange oil or citrus degreaser.
- Applying talcum powder to the sticky surface.
Avoid using abrasive materials like scouring pads when cleaning plastic as they can scratch the surface. Do not put sticky plastic items in a dishwasher or washing machine, and do not dry them with a hair dryer or other heat source. Also, avoid using acetone or nail polish remover on certain types of plastics as they can damage them.
To prevent plastic from becoming sticky, avoid storing plastic items in extreme temperatures such as attics, basements, or garages.
