If you’ve ever tried reusing a glass jar, you know how frustrating sticky labels can be. They tear, leave behind glue, and often take ages to remove even after soaking and scrubbing.

Luckily, my nana showed me a simple trick that removes any label in just one minute — no soaking, no chemicals, no scrubbing.

Why Labels Are So Hard to Remove

Jar labels are made with strong adhesive meant to survive shipping and handling. When you peel them, they usually shred and leave behind glue that attracts dust and looks messy.

Why Traditional Methods Don’t Work

• Soaking in hot soapy water can take 20–30 minutes.

• Scrubbing with abrasive pads can scratch the glass.

• Chemical solvents smell bad and aren’t eco-friendly.

Nana’s 1-Minute Hack

Her trick is unbelievably simple: use cooking oil.

Just apply a bit of vegetable, olive, or canola oil onto the label and let it sit for about a minute. The oil breaks down the adhesive so the label slides off cleanly.

Why It Works

Adhesives are non-polar, and oil is non-polar too — meaning oil dissolves the glue without damaging the glass. Once the bond is weakened, the label peels away in one piece.

What You Need

• A little cooking oil

• A paper towel or cloth

• A jar with a sticky label

How to Do It

1. Make sure the jar is dry.

2. Put a bit of oil on a cloth or paper towel.

3. Rub it over the label until it’s fully coated.

4. Wait one minute.

5. Peel the label off — it should come off easily.

6. Wipe the jar to remove excess oil.

Why This Method Is Better

• Takes only 1 minute

• Leaves no residue

• Uses safe, natural ingredients

• Won’t scratch or damage glass

• Cheap and effortless

What People Say

Home cooks and crafters swear by this trick because it works instantly and leaves jars spotless. Many say it’s now the only method they use.

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