Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Tried that.

Didn't work for me. Still sticky and messy, with the added benefit of adding schmutz from the cloth I used.



It takes a lot of alcohol. I learned to soak a paper towel and rub it on the sticky stuff with almost no pressure. If it sticks, there is not enough alcohol.

And change the paper towel frequently. It works by dissolving the sticky stuff, not mechanically wiping it off. So the paper towel picks up the dissolved crud after only a few wipes, then switch to a clean one.

I’ve cleaned cameras, mice, umbrella handles, and the back of a Samsung tablet this way.


Next time give lighter fluid a try, that should work better.


I had some success in soaking gooey rubber parts in a vinegar and water bath overnight. It seemed to cause the gooey stuff to slough off enough that I was able to removed by scrubbing lightly with a dish rag.


Try lighter fluid, that should work better.


Lighter fluid can make plastics brittle. Odorless mineral spirits, shop towels, and gloves would be my next step.


nail polish remover works




Consider applying for YC's Summer 2026 batch! Applications are open till May 4

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: