Gummy smudge tests patience

Q: I would be most grateful if you could advise me how to remove the gummy smudge that I created while trying to remove a price label from the dust cover of a 1980s-era phonograph. I’m not sure what the cover is made of — vinyl, perhaps — but I ruined the looks trying to pick the tag off, and I have to put a book on top to cover the mess. How can I get it nice and clear again? — Shirley W., Staatsburg, N.Y.

A: Start by trying plain old dish soap and water, and a lint-free soft cloth that won’t scratch the clear plastic. (Unplug the record player and lay towels around the spot to be cleaned so water doesn’t drip onto sensitive parts of the equipment.) Dip a corner of the cloth in the soapy water and dampen the gummy area, let it soak for a couple of minutes, and gently rub back and forth. The water, soap and friction have the best chance of clearing up that gummy label residue, although it may take several tries to do so.

Another possible solution is mineral oil. Carefully soak the gummy area (you don’t want this stuff spilling into the record player) and let it sit for a couple of minutes, then rub with a cotton cloth. Cooking oil or even an all-purpose lubricating oil could work, too.

If the plastic isn’t clear, after soaking I would recommend scraping away the smudge with a putty knife or even a razor blade. But that and the use of any solvents that might react with the plastic could leave a permanent mark. Auto parts stores do sell ice scrapers with plastic-coated edges that reduce scratches on windshield glass, so you could give one a try.

In any case, be patient — work at the smudge with nonabrasive materials, and if in doubt, hold off. That smudge is temporary — if tough to remove — but care must be taken during the cleaning process to prevent permanent damage. If it doesn’t come clean and you have to put the book over it again, play to your strengths: Put a copy of “Hamlet” or something over the stain. That way, visitors will be impressed with your pursuit of knowledge and your taste in music, all in one.

HOME TIP: No matter what kind of cleaning solution you use on a tough stain, always test the solution on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t cause damage.