How to Remove Labels from Glass Jars: 5 Simple, Quick, and Effective Methods | April 30, 2025

To make jams and preserves, you can easily reuse glass jars purchased at the supermarket. But what if the label won’t come off? Here are 5 simple and effective methods to remove labels from glass jars.

Removing labels and stickers from jars can be challenging, whether they are paper adhesive labels or packaging wrappers. If you prefer vegetables in glass, you can keep the jars to refill them with new preserves or sweet jams. But what if the label just won’t budge? Here are 5 simple and effective methods to revive your glass jars.

1. White Vinegar
Fill a shallow container with white vinegar and arrange the jars so that the entire label is submerged. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes. For stubborn labels, heat the vinegar in the microwave or on the stove first. Then, gently peel off the label; if it has soaked long enough, it should come off easily. If not, let it soak a little longer. This method works well for most glass containers and metal cans.

2. Hot Water
Soaking the jars in hot water is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to remove labels. Immerse the containers in a basin or sink filled with hot water (the hotter, the better) for about an hour or overnight. For particularly resistant labels, add a bit of dish soap or laundry detergent. Once soaked, the labels will come off easily; any leftover adhesive can be removed with a wet sponge.

3. Nail Polish Remover or Rubbing Alcohol

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