Old Furniture Refinishing: Remove Adhesive First! Household Adhesive Remover Takes Off Years-Old Glue Stains Easily

Refinishing old furniture—whether it’s a thrifted wooden dresser, a vintage side table, or a well-loved cabinet—is a fantastic way to breathe new life into worn pieces. But before you grab sandpaper, paint, or stain, there’s a non-negotiable first step: eliminating those stubborn, years-old glue stains. These sticky marks—left behind by old stickers, tape, or even past repair work—cling tightly to wood, laminate, or painted surfaces. Scrubbing them with sandpaper or a sharp scraper doesn’t just waste time; it risks scratching the furniture’s original finish or damaging the wood underneath. That’s where a household adhesive remover shines—it does the hard work for you, saving both time and effort.

Household adhesive removers are formulated to break down even long-dried, aged glue without harming furniture surfaces. Unlike harsh chemicals that might strip wood stain or fade painted finishes, most gentle formulas seep into the glue’s layers, softening it so it lifts off instead of clinging stubbornly. Here’s how to use it to prep your furniture:

First, wipe the furniture surface with a dry cloth to brush away dust, dirt, or loose debris—this ensures the remover targets the glue, not grime. Then, apply a small amount of the remover directly to the old glue stains (a little goes a long way, so avoid over-spraying). Let it sit for 3-5 minutes; older, more stubborn glue may need an extra minute or two to soften. You’ll notice the sticky residue start to loosen, transforming from a hard, crusty spot into something easy to wipe away. Finally, grab a soft cloth or plastic scraper (never metal—this scratches!) and gently wipe or lift off the glue. The stains will come off cleanly, leaving a smooth, even base for your refinishing work.

It works on all types of furniture glue messes: old price tag residue on wooden drawers, tape marks on cabinet doors, even dried craft glue from past DIY projects. And since it’s safe for wood, laminate, and most painted surfaces, you can use it on nearly any piece you’re refinishing—no need to worry about ruining the furniture you’re trying to refresh.

Skip the back-breaking scrubbing and stop risking scratches on your vintage finds. With a household adhesive remover, removing old glue from furniture is quick and effortless—so you can spend less time prepping and more time turning that old piece into something you’ll love for years to come.