The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

Phonoboy wrote:Often, as I am sure all of you can attest, I'll find a few nice records in antique shops only to discover a price sticker on the label. This fact annoys me to no end, as I find it nearly impossible to remove said sticker
Without marring the label. What I want this year is for dealers to stop this practice. Incidentally; if anyone has a proven method for safety removing the offending sticker do let me know.

A noble wish. Certainly something that will benefit all of humanity.

I agree that the Lick and stick "gummed" stickers of the past are relatively easily removed with placing water on them and patiently waiting for adhesive to dissolve.

For labels with more modern, aggressive adhesives, I use naptha, the active ingredient in cigarette lighter fluid (there are likely other sources for naptha, as well). I soak a cotton ball with naptha, and dab the sticker with it, and then use a fingernail or a plastic utensil to slowly work the sticker off. Any sticky residue remaining can be quickly removed by applying the cotton ball directly to the stickiness. I have never had this method damage or even discolor paper or shellac/vinyl/styrene surfaces. It is important to use naptha in a well ventilated area, and it is flammable.

Best wishes, Mark

You can also use WD-40

Thank you all.
Together we can make a difference.