How To Remove 3M Adhesives

Few brands carry the same reputation for reliability in bonding applications as 3M. 3M adhesive systems are engineered for demanding industrial environments and designed to perform under heat, load, vibration, and constant use. As a result, when a 3M adhesive is applied correctly, it forms a durable, long-term bond. One that operators may find challenging to remove during changeovers, rework, or routine maintenance.

So, how do you efficiently remove 3M adhesives without damaging substrates or slowing production?

Many facilities rely on heat to soften adhesive bonds, or water and steam when appropriate for the materials involved. Common shop chemicals like isopropyl alcohol or acetone can break down some adhesives, and petroleum-based options may help in low-risk applications. However, these methods often require extended dwell time, aggressive manual scraping, or multiple passes, and may still deliver inconsistent results.

For industrial workflows where uptime matters, the best option is to use a remover engineered for the job: 3M Adhesive Removers.

3M Adhesive Removers

3M formulates its adhesive removers to break down the same chemistries used in its tapes, sealants, and bonding agents. This ensures predictable performance and substrate compatibility across a wide range of industrial materials.

3M™ Adhesive Remover Citrus Base

3M™ Adhesive Remover Citrus Base 6041 provides fast, surface-safe removal of adhesive residue from labels, tapes, protective films, and other bonded materials. Its spray-on application makes cleanup efficient—simply apply, allow brief penetration, and wipe clean with a shop towel. The product leaves no oily or filmy residue that could interfere with downstream processes.

Unlike harsh solvent blends, 3M™ Adhesive Remover Citrus Base uses citrus oil to minimize odor and reduce worker exposure concerns. It is safe for metals, glass, plastics, and painted surfaces, making it a practical solution for multi-material environments.

Common industrial applications include:

• Removing barcodes or tracking labels from reusable totes in warehouse operations
• Eliminating tape residue from trim, moldings, or protective masking in automotive repair and assembly
• Cleaning label buildup from rollers, guides, and equipment in printing and packaging lines

Available formats include 24-oz aerosol cans, gallon containers, and mini cylinders for high-volume use.

3M™ Industrial Cleaner Citrus Base

For applications involving heavy grease, oil, or embedded grime, 3M™ Industrial Cleaner Citrus Base delivers industrial-strength cleaning without the drawbacks of chlorinated or petroleum-based solvents. The citrus-oil formulation softens and lifts contaminants quickly while offering a more user-friendly odor profile—an advantage in enclosed or high-traffic work areas.

This cleaner is commonly used for:

• Degreasing metal components, motors, and tooling
• Cleaning machinery during preventive maintenance
• Removing ink, oil, and residue from press components in print operations
• Addressing buildup on concrete or equipment surfaces in facility maintenance

Its aerosol format enables controlled application in tight or complex geometries, and cleanup typically requires only a single wipe.

Contact JAM Industrial Supply

As a 3M Strategic Distributor for more than 20 years, JAM Industrial Supply provides industrial clients with product access, training, and application expertise that general distributors cannot match. Our relationship with 3M grants advantages such as early product availability, exclusive rebate programs, direct ERP access, and ongoing in-person and online training from 3M specialists.

Whether you need guidance on selecting the right adhesive for your application or choosing the most efficient remover for your facility’s workflow, JAM Industrial Supply is here to help. We proudly support manufacturers, fabricators, and industrial operations throughout the Canton, Ohio region.

Call us at (330) 456-3000 or contact us online to get started.