Sticky tack, also known as poster putty or mounting putty, is a reusable adhesive for hanging lightweight items without using nails or tape. While convenient, its removal often presents a challenge. The putty contains plasticizers and oils that inevitably leave a subtle, greasy stain on porous surfaces like painted drywall or wallpaper. Successfully returning a wall to its original state requires a two-step process: removing the bulk material and then eliminating the residual oily mark.
Safe Removal of the Bulk Putty
The first objective is to physically lift the main mass of the adhesive without causing any damage to the underlying paint or paper. The “tack on tack” method is effective, involving kneading a fresh piece of putty and pressing it repeatedly onto the remnants left on the wall. The fresh putty acts as an absorbent magnet, pulling the older, adhered material away from the surface.
An alternative method involves slow, deliberate peeling or rolling the putty mass away from the surface. Always pull parallel to the wall rather than straight out to minimize the shearing force that can cause paint or paper to lift. This technique works best when the putty has not dried out or fused significantly with the wall surface.
For putty that has hardened or become brittle, applying a small amount of heat can facilitate removal. Use a standard household hair dryer set to the lowest heat setting, holding it approximately six inches from the adhesive for only a few seconds. The gentle warmth softens the polymer composition, making it more pliable and allowing the mass to be peeled off easily.
Erasing the Greasy Stain and Residue
Once the bulk material is gone, the remaining challenge is the oily mark left by the tack’s plasticizers. Since these are oil-based compounds, a mild solvent or absorbing agent is required to lift the stain. Begin with the gentlest option, which is a baking soda paste mixed with water.
Apply this thick paste directly to the stain and allow it to sit for approximately 30 minutes, giving the powder time to absorb the surface oils. Gently wipe the paste away using a clean, dry cloth, taking care not to rub the residue into the wall. If a shadow remains, try using a mild detergent solution, such as a drop of dish soap mixed with water, applied with a soft sponge.
For more persistent, dried-in stains, a gentle chemical agent may be necessary, starting with isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Dampen a cotton swab or a clean cloth with the alcohol and lightly dab the stained area rather than aggressively scrubbing. Dabbing minimizes the risk of spreading the oil or disrupting the paint finish while allowing the alcohol to break down the greasy residue.
If the wall is painted with a durable, non-porous finish, citrus-based cleaners can be effective, as the d-limonene compound acts as a natural degreaser. For severe, deeply set stains, a small amount of mineral spirits can be used, but this requires caution due to its strength. Always test mineral spirits in an inconspicuous area first, as it can strip certain types of paint or degrade the surface finish.
Surface-Specific Safety Checks
Before attempting any removal technique, always perform a small spot-test in an inconspicuous location, such as behind furniture or near the baseboard. This check confirms that the wall surface will not react negatively to the method, preventing widespread damage. Testing is important when introducing any liquid or solvent to the surface.
Painted drywall surfaces require minimal moisture and avoidance of aggressive scrubbing motions. Excessive saturation can lead to the paint softening, bubbling, or lifting away from the gypsum board. The friction of scrubbing can also cause permanent burnishing, leaving a noticeable shiny spot where the paint texture has been worn smooth.
Wallpaper demands the most cautious approach, as many types are sensitive to moisture and solvents. Any liquid, especially alcohol or mineral spirits, can cause the paper backing to weaken, leading to tearing or bubbling. For wallpaper, stick strictly to dry removal methods like the “tack on tack” technique and avoid introducing any liquid cleaning agent.
If a small amount of paint or paper lifts during the removal process, the damage is generally repairable. For painted walls, keep the original touch-up paint available to carefully blend the damaged area back into the surrounding surface.