How to Remove Epoxy Adhesives from Clothes

Epoxy adhesives are exceptionally difficult to remove if they stick to your clothes or any other fabric. The super sticking quality makes glue feasible for use, but if it sticks to your clothes it does not come off easily. Since epoxy adhesives instantly stick to the fabric, even if you act quickly to remove them, they still manage to leave a stain on your clothes. Unlike other stains, the stain of epoxy adhesives cannot simply be wiped off. Always remember that removing an epoxy adhesive off your clothes is a cumbersome job. Follow the simple steps described below to remove epoxy adhesives from clothes.

Step 1 – Place the Cloth on the Cardboard

This should always be the first step if dealing with an epoxy adhesive spill accident. Use a cardboard so that the fabric on which you spilled the adhesive accidentally does not stick with the object on which it is placed. After placing the cloth on the cardboard, wait for the epoxy adhesive to dry, otherwise any object you use for removing the adhesive might get glued to that too.

Step 2 – Soaking the Cloth in Warm Water

In a tub, mix soap or a detergent in warm water. As soon as the epoxy adhesive dries on the cloth soak the cloth in the warm soapy water. Do not allow the fabric to become dry as it will make the stain more difficult for you to remove. Then take a knife and try to scrap the epoxy adhesive on the wet cloth. The warm soapy water will make the epoxy adhesive soft and by the help of the knife it can easily be scraped off. It will, however, leave some residue.

Step 3 – Using Acetate

The acetate helps dissolving the epoxy adhesive. Be very careful while using the acetate since it may leave its own stains on the fabric. Only take the effected portion of the cloth and damp it in the acetate solution. Dab at the epoxy adhesive until it dissolves. Rub the fabric from both the sides, because if the fabric is not thin enough for the acetate to soak through it the adhesive might not come off completely.

Step 4 – Washing the Cloth

Use a pre-wash stain remover on the area where the epoxy adhesive bonded with the cloth. Blot the area with a clean cloth and fresh water until you are sure that the stain of the acetate has been removed. Do not let the fabric dry out if the stain is still apparent as it will make it nearly impossible for you to remove the stain afterward.

Step 5 – Let the Fabric Dry

Once the stain has been completely removed, hang the cloth and let it air dry. Then take a good look at the area where the epoxy adhesive spilled ensuring the adhesive has totally come off.

Step 6 – For Future Reference: De-bonding Solution

Always keep a de-bonding solution with you while working with epoxy adhesives. A de-bonding solution will not let the epoxy adhesive bond instantly with your clothes or fabric. This in turn will make it easier for you to remove the stain and the epoxy adhesive.