How to remove labels from wine bottles
Collecting wine labels is a hobby for many wine lovers around the world. There are those who collect labels of prestigious and unique bottles, very expensive and rare; there are those who collect labels of the bottles they have drunk; there are those who collect labels of wines from a particular region or producer; there are those who collect vintage labels and those who are looking for special or limited edition bottle labels etc. etc.
Every label collector has to deal with the delicate removal of labels from bottles. The labels must be removed from the wine bottle before being collected in special albums. This is an operation that requires great care and attention.
There are wineries that sell their labels directly to collectors, just to prevent the labels from being damaged during removal. Other wineries do not offer this service. Many manufacturers use special glues to ensure that they do not detach easily, ensuring the authenticity of the product.
Below, let’s see how to remove the labels of wine bottles without ruining them. We will also suggest some DIY solutions that you can test directly at home, with the help of some everyday tools!
How to remove labels from wine bottles without ruining them
We tell you that to remove label from wine bottle you DON’T have to use only your fingers. It is practically impossible to remove it only and exclusively with this method. In most cases, you’ll ruin it forever!
How to remove the label from the bottle of wine, without ruining it? On the market there are special tools and products for collectors, created to save the labels of wine bottles and to remove them without problems. These are specific sprays, films or adhesives that allow its removal and do not damage the label.
Alternatively, here are some DIY solutions!
Solution 1: Hot water
A very common method to remove labels from wine bottles is that which involves the use of hot water to dissolve the glue of labels and to allow an easy removal.
Put the bottle in a pot of hot water and leave it in the container for 15-20 minutes, the time needed to fade the effects of the glue. Remove the bottle from the pot and try to remove the label, in the most delicate way possible. Finally, before storing it in the album, let it dry on a clean surface.
Among the most common tips regarding hot water there is also to fill the bottle of hot water, without wetting the label. After the container has become hot and the glue has lost part of its properties, try to remove the label.
Finally, you can also put a cloth full of hot water on the label. After a few minutes, try removing the label. There should be no problem. Then let it dry, otherwise there is a risk that it will tear or damage.
Solution 2: Bottle in the oven
Another method to remove the wine label is to place the bottle in the oven. The principle is always the same: use the heat to dissolve the glue and remove the label without damage. Leave it in the oven for 15-20 minutes, then take out the bottle (be careful not to burn yourself!) and proceed with the removal.
Solution 3: Hair dryer
Probably the least effective method, but someone uses a hair dryer. Turn on the hair dryer, turn it to maximum power on the label, and thanks to the heat emitted, the glue should melt. Energy waste is considerable. That’s why we prefer the first solution!
And you, dear collector, how do you remove labels from wine bottles?
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