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Author
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Topic: Best methods of removing stamps from envelopes
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JBoe
Member Posts: 959
From: Churchton, MD
Registered: Oct 2012
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posted 01-12-2014 08:27 AM
   
I was wondering, what is the best way to remove stamps from envelopes, especially adhesive ones? Thanks. |
Tykeanaut
Member Posts: 2212
From: Worcestershire, England, UK.
Registered: Apr 2008
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posted 01-12-2014 10:10 AM
I've always found steam to work fairly well. |
Robert Pearlman
Editor Posts: 42985
From: Houston, TX
Registered: Nov 1999
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posted 01-12-2014 10:55 AM
Here's a video that recommends WD40 (in pen form) to remove self-adhesive stamps: |
MarylandSpace
Member Posts: 1336
From:
Registered: Aug 2002
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posted 01-12-2014 01:43 PM
Many years ago, I used to soak stamps in water, dry them face down on a paper towel, and then flatten them in books.Thank you Robert for sharing this video about removing adhesive, non-lick, stamps. |
LM1
Member Posts: 667
From: New York, NY
Registered: Oct 2010
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posted 01-13-2014 09:39 AM
The video was very informative, but I have always removed the old stamps by soaking them in water and the new adhesive stamps by finding a corner and very very slowly peeling the stamp back. But now I do it differently. To remove stamps, address labels or price tags from envelopes or other items I now always apply a few drops of lighter fluid to the face of the item, rub it in very gently, wait a few seconds (do not let it dry) and then slowly remove the item. The lighter fluid can then be applied to the surface again to remove any remaining glue. The lighter fluid dries very fast. You should then gently wash both surfaces with a very small amount of water. Some adhesives are very strong, so you may have to repeat step one. You can buy a 12 oz. container of lighter fluid in many stores for $6 or less, It will last for years. Store in a safe place. |
Hart Sastrowardoyo
Member Posts: 3445
From: Toms River, NJ
Registered: Aug 2000
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posted 01-13-2014 10:45 AM
quote:
Originally posted by MarylandSpace:
Many years ago, I used to soak stamps in water, dry them face down on a paper towel, and then flatten them in books.
Back in my stamp collecting days I used to use regular towels, as sometimes the stamps would stick to the paper towels.
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JBoe
Member Posts: 959
From: Churchton, MD
Registered: Oct 2012
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posted 01-13-2014 04:49 PM
Thanks guys, I really appreciate it! I'm just worried that the WD40 or lighter fluid would damage the non-adhesive side of the stamp. I'll give it a try anyways  |
LM1
Member Posts: 667
From: New York, NY
Registered: Oct 2010
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posted 01-13-2014 05:29 PM
No, the lighter fluid will not destroy your stamps in any manner. The container comes with an opening that allows you to add drops - do not splash it on. It dries very fast and does not leave a stain. Experiment with it first by removing stamps from your incoming mail. I use it almost every day to remove labels and stains from paper or plastic or metal items that I sell on eBay. |
OLDIE
Member Posts: 268
From: Portsmouth, England
Registered: Sep 2004
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posted 01-26-2014 03:03 AM
A bit late I know, but here's my five penn'th (old english expression!).With the old style "lick and stick" stamps, steaming off the envelope worked well, because the gum was water-soluble. With the newer self-adhesive stamps, the gum is solvent-soluble, so lighter fuel is the solvent to use. If unsure, try lighter fuel first, as you can always go back to steaming if the lighter fuel doesn't work. |
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