Removing PresStick from Carpeting

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated October 17, 2022)

Whether you know the material by the name PresStick, Blu-Tack, or even its more colloquial term of "blue sticky stuff" chances are you have come across it at some point in your life. However, despite all the benefits that may come with the use of this material, such as keeping unnecessary holes from adorning your walls, there are still problems that can come from its use.

One of the most common problems that may arise sometimes is if you get some of it gets dropped onto your carpet. If you don't immediately pick it up, you run the risk of the PresStick getting ground into the carpet.

Removing PresStick from carpeting is actually something that anyone can do, if you know how. Here are a few simple methods that you can use to remove any of that blue sticky stuff from your carpeting. Each of these methods use materials that you should have readily available around your home.

  • More PresStick. A great way to remove PresStick that hasn't been ground too much into your carpeting is through the use of more of that blue sticky stuff. Simply pinch a little of the material between two of your fingers, and then "dab-up" the stuff on, or in the carpeting. The material should adhere to itself enough that it pulls up with little or no problem.
  • Eucalyptus oils. Look in your medicine cabinet for any sinus medicine, one of the common ingredients is eucalyptus oil. Remove it from the medicine cabinet and get the area around the PresStick wet with water, and then work the medicine into the carpeting. Leave it for a little while, about ten minutes, and then wipe up with either a shop towel or an old clean towel that you don't need any more.
  • Citrus stain removers. Many cleaners that you can purchase now-a-days now contain citrus oils as one of the main ingredients. Before using, test the cleaner in an inconspicuous area of carpet to see if there will be any adverse reaction. Simply wet the area with water, and then work the stain remover into the carpeting. Allow it to sit for roughly ten minutes, and then wipe up with an old towel.
  • Ice Cube. Another great way to remove PresStick is by freezing and scraping. Simply take an ice cube and apply it to the blue sticky stuff. Keep working at the Blu-Tack until it has frozen, and then use either a butter knife or a credit card to scrape it away. Keep doing this until you have removed everything.
  • White Vinegar. The white vinegar is probably one of the best possible solutions to removing PresStick. Simply dab a little bit onto a clean washcloth or sponge, and work it into the mess. The white vinegar should help break down some of the greasy material that makes up the Blu-Tack, and is safe to use on carpeting. Simply keep dabbing at the material until you can remove it.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

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