Contact paper can be a quick and easy way to update the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. The adhesive backing lets you apply colorful patterns or faux finishes over worn or dated surfaces. However, removing contact paper from metal cabinets can be a tedious task if you don’t use the proper technique. With some patience and the right tools, you can get that sticky covering off without damaging the underlying surface.

What is Contact Paper?

Contact paper, also known as adhesive paper or self-adhesive shelf liner, is a thin, plastic-coated paper printed with various patterns and textures. An adhesive coating on one side allows it to stick to smooth surfaces like wood, metal, and laminate. It provides an inexpensive alternative to refinishing or replacing worn shelving, drawer interiors, and cabinet surfaces.

Contact paper comes in a variety of colors and designs. Some feature faux finishes like marble, granite, or wood grain. Others have graphic prints or solid colors for a pop of pattern or brightness. Specialty versions exist for specific needs, like chalkboard contact paper for writing menus and messages. Typically sold in rolls at home improvement stores, contact paper is trimmed to fit the surface being covered.

Benefits of Using Contact Paper

Applying contact paper provides a number of advantages over refinishing or replacing cabinets:

• Quick and easy. Simply measure, cut, peel, and stick to transform the look of cabinets. No messy paints, stains, or varnishes to apply.
• Affordable. A roll of contact paper costs just a fraction of the price of new cabinets or resurfacing.
• Removable. Contact paper peels off without permanent effects, allowing you to change designs whenever you like.
• Hides flaws. Prints and patterns disguise worn, cracked, or discolored surfaces.
• Versatile. Available in multiple colors, prints, and textures to suit any decor. Use in kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, shelving, and more.
• Easy to clean. Contact paper wipes clean with just soap and water.

While the simplicity of application makes contact paper appealing, removing it again often proves frustratingly difficult. With the right approach and tools though, you can strip it away cleanly and renew those metal cabinets again.

Why Removing Contact Paper Can Be Challenging

Contact paper attaches so well thanks to the adhesive backing. This sticky grip that makes application easy also causes it to cling stubbornly when removing. Attempting to peel it away in a hurry often leaves behind a gummy, shredded mess.

Several factors add to the challenge of removing contact paper from metal:

• Strong adhesive. Most contact paper uses a powerful, permanent adhesive that bonds tightly to smooth surfaces. Over time, it hardens and gains strength.
• Thin, flexible paper. The thin paper tears easily when you try pulling it off, leaving scraps glued in place.
• Discoloration. Age and exposure to moisture and grease can cause the adhesive to yellow or darken. Any residue left behind permanently stains the metal underneath.
• Static cling. Contact paper develops static cling that makes it stick to the metal’s smooth, nonporous surface with surprising tenacity.

With care and patience though, you can conquer these removal challenges. The secret lies in loosening the adhesive grip before attempting to peel away the paper.

How to Remove Contact Paper from Metal Cabinets

Removing contact paper takes some time and elbow grease. Follow these steps to break that sticky bond without damaging your cabinets:

Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need a few basic household items to safely remove the contact paper:

• Heat source – hair dryer, heat gun, or iron
• Plastic scraper or putty knife
• Mineral spirits or adhesive remover spray
• Soft cloths
• Masking tape (optional)

Avoid using razor blades or other sharp tools that could scratch the metal. Stick to tools with smooth, rounded edges.

Prepare the Space

Clear the area to give yourself plenty of working room. Remove everything from the cabinets and drawers, including shelves, racks, and hardware.

Spread out plastic sheeting or drop cloths below the workspace to catch any drips and debris. Have trash bags ready for discarded scraps of contact paper.

Make sure the room has good ventilation when using mineral spirits or adhesive remover sprays. Open windows and turn on fans to circulate fresh air.

Loosen the Edges

Start by gently working up the edges of the contact paper around the perimeter. Heat softens the adhesive to make this easier.

Use a hair dryer or heat gun to warm the paper’s edges for 30 seconds at a time. Apply low to medium heat, holding the dryer 2-3 inches away to avoid burning or blistering the contact paper.

After heating, insert a plastic scraper under one corner and slowly peel up 1-2 inches of the paper’s edge. Take care not to tear the contact paper.

Continue warming and lifting the edges all around the cabinetry. Don’t try ripping off the paper yet – just disconnect the outer borders from the adhesive.

Tip: Masking tape can help when loosening curled edges. Stick pieces of tape over lifted areas to keep them anchored up while you work.

Soak the Surface

Now that the outer edges are freed, it’s time to penetrate the main surface. Adhesive remover solution helps soften the glue’s grip for easier removal.

With mineral spirits:

Dampen a soft cloth with mineral spirits and rub gently over the contact paper’s surface. Avoid excessive wetness dripping down the cabinets.

Let it soak in for 2-3 minutes. The mineral spirits seep under the paper to loosen the adhesive bond. Blot dry with a clean cloth.

With adhesive remover spray:

Shake the spray bottle well and hold it 8-10 inches from the cabinet. Apply a light, even coat across all of the contact paper, lightly misting over any edges already lifted up.

Let the remover solution sit for 2-3 minutes before proceeding to allow it to penetrate. Avoid getting the cabinets overly saturated.

Repeat the soaking process as needed on any areas that still feel firmly stuck.

Peel Off Slowly

With the adhesive loosened, start gently peeling away the contact paper. Take it slow to avoid tearing.

Continue heating with the hair dryer or heat gun as you work – the warmth makes the paper peel off easier. Heat an area for 30 seconds, peel up a section, then repeat.

Pull back against the top layer only, pressing down as your peel to help separate the bottom adhesive layer. Discard pieces once removed.

Work in small sections to carefully lift off every bit of the contact paper without leaving scraps behind. Vertical surfaces often come off cleanest by peeling downward.

Remove Any Residue

Check for any remaining adhesive residue after removing the top paper layer. Dark specks of glue may dot the cabinet surface.

Apply more mineral spirits or adhesive remover to break down the sticker remnants. Let it soak in for a minute or two.

Then gently rub the areas with a soft cloth to wipe away any last traces of sticky residue.

Avoid harsh scrubbing that could scratch the cabinets. Be patient and let the solutions do the work.

If any haze remains, repeat the soaking and wiping process. The metal should be completely clean when finished removing contact paper.

Clean and Refresh

Give the newly bare cabinets a thorough cleaning once the contact paper is fully removed:

• Wash with mild soap and warm water using a soft sponge or rag. Avoid scouring pads.
• Rinse well and dry with a lint-free cloth.
• Apply a metal polish or stainless steel cleaner for added shine and protection.
• Buff to a streak-free finish with a microfiber cloth.
• Check for any leftover adhesive and repeat cleaning if needed.

Opening windows to air out solvent smells from mineral spirits provides a final refreshing touch. Then replace shelves, hardware, and cabinet contents.

Tips for Removing Contact Paper from Metal Successfully

Removing contact paper takes patience, but these tips help make the process safer and easier:

• Go slow and easy – don’t tug or tear at the paper. Peel gently in small sections.
• Apply heat as you work to soften the adhesive’s grip. Avoid overheating.
• Try a plastic pry bar rather than a metal scraper to prevent scratches.
• Soak the paper thoroughly before peeling to penetrate the adhesive.
• Adhesive remover solutions require adequate ventilation.
• Test cleaners/solvents in an inconspicuous spot first to check for reactions with the metal finish.
• Wear gloves to protect hands from cleaners and adhesive residue.
• Use masking tape to hold lifted edges in place while working.
• Take your time and check for leftover adhesive residue after peeling.
• Clean and polish the metal after removing all traces of contact paper and glue.

Alternative Removal Options

In addition to the traditional heat, chemical solvent, and peeling method, you may want to try these other options for removing stubborn contact paper from metal:

Steam Machine

A wallpaper steamer applies hot vapor to soften and loosen the adhesive backing. The penetrating moisture helps saturate the glue without chemicals. Peel off sections while steaming for easier removal with less tearing.

Wallpaper Scoring Tool

This hand tool uses small wheels with teeth to scratch through just the top paper layer. Perforating the surface before peeling allows steam or solvents to better penetrate and break the adhesive grip underneath.

Citrus-based Adhesive Remover

For a more natural option, try a plant-derived adhesive remover gel made from orange oil extracts. Apply it like traditional adhesive solvents and let it sit before scraping away paper. The citrus oils dissolve glue without caustic chemicals.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Make a paste from baking soda and vinegar and spread it onto the contact papered surface. As it bubbles and works into the adhesive, it helps loosen the bond for easier removal. Try utilizing this household cleaner option before resorting to harsher chemicals.

When to Call for Professional Help

While DIY removal is possible in many cases, professional assistance may be needed at times for:

• Contact paper residue left on metal after multiple removal attempts
• Cabinets finished with specialty coatings like lacquer or veneers
• Intricately carved or detailed cabinetry with grooves and indentations
• Metallic finishes prone to scratching like polished brass or antique finishes
• Soft metals like copper or aluminum that dimple and dent easily from scraping
• Remodeling projects on tight deadlines that require quicker removal
• Overwhelming contact paper removal jobs spanning multiple rooms

Seeking professional help saves time and prevents frustration and mistakes that could permanently damage cabinets. Experienced contractors have industrial tools and chemical solutions designed specifically to remove old adhesive residue without harming the underlying surface.

Renew Cabinets without Replacing

Contact paper offers a fast and affordable way to redecorate dated and worn kitchen or bathroom cabinets. But eventually, it loses appeal or bond and needs removal. With a heat source, plastic scraper, mineral spirits, and patient persistence, you can tackle peeling it off metal cabinets yourself. Just work slowly to avoid tearing or residues that could permanently mar surfaces.

Renew that metalshine again by cleansing away all remaining sticky spots after contact paper comes off. With the surface cleared, experiment with new adhesive coverings or showcase the natural cabinetry again. Either way, properly removing old contact paper preps those metal cabinets for an updated look without the cost or work of full replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Contact Paper from Metal Cabinets

How do you get old contact paper off cabinets easily?

Soaking the paper with mineral spirits or adhesive remover spray helps soften and penetrate the glue. Warming it with a hairdryer also makes it peel off easier. Go slowly and gently to avoid tearing. Use a plastic scraper instead of a razor blade to prevent scratches.

What is the best way to remove contact paper glue from cabinets?

Adhesive remover sprays work well to dissolve leftover sticky residue. Apply it after peeling off paper and let it soak in for a few minutes. Wipe clean with a soft cloth. Repeat if needed for stubborn areas of glue until all traces are gone. Avoid harsh scrubbing.

What removes contact paper adhesive from metal cabinets?

Mineral spirits work to dissolve the adhesive and make it easier to remove paper. Apply with a cloth and let soak in before slowly peeling up the contact paper. Adhesive remover sprays also help break down old glue stuck on metal cabinets. Wipe clean when finished.

Can I paint over contact paper on cabinets?

It’s best to remove all contact paper and adhesive residue before painting cabinets. Paint adheres poorly to the sheet plastic of contact paper. Bubbling, peeling, yellowing, and other issues can occur if painting over contact paper. Take the time to strip it away completely first.

Will vinegar remove contact paper adhesive?

Yes, vinegar’s acetic acid can help dissolve adhesive glue. Make a solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply it to the contact paper backing and let sit for 2-3 minutes before peeling up paper. You can also make a paste with vinegar and baking soda to scrub off old adhesive residue.

Conclusion

Contact paper offers a fast and affordable way to refresh the look of metal kitchen and bathroom cabinets. But eventually, replacing that sticky covering becomes necessary. Removing contact paper from metal surfaces presents some challenges due to its tendency to tear and leave adhesive reside. With the right solvent solutions, tools, heat, and techniques though, DIY removal can be done successfully without damaging cabinets. Just be sure to work slowly and gently to pry up all paper and glue. A little persistence pays off, allowing those metal cabinets to shine like new again.

Additional FAQs

Q: What household items can help remove contact paper?

A: Common household products like rubbing alcohol, vinegar, and coconut oil can help dissolve contact paper adhesive when applied to the surface. Let these liquids soak in before gently peeling up the paper. Heat from a hairdryer also helps loosen the glue’s grip. Avoid harsh scrubbing that could scratch metal cabinets.

Q: Can I remove contact paper while the cabinets are still mounted?

A: Yes, contact paper can be removed while cabinets remain hung in place. Just clear out the contents first and spread plastic sheeting below to catch debris. Have adequate workspace to access all surfaces. Removal may be easier if the cabinets can be taken down, but with care it can be done while mounted.

Q: Will WD-40 remove contact paper adhesive residue?

A: WD-40 can help dissolve stubborn contact paper adhesive leftover after removing the top paper layer. Spray it on and let it penetrate for 2-3 minutes. The lubricating oils help break down the glue. Wipe with a soft cloth until it’s gone. Test first on an inconspicuous spot.

Q: What’s the easiest way to get contact paper off textured surfaces?

A: Contact paper clings tightly to textured surfaces like brushed metal, wood grain, etc. For easiest removal, opt for a steamer instead of chemical solvents. The hot vapor penetrates deeply to loosen the adhesive’s grip. Peel slowly and heat while removing to avoid tearing.

Q: Can I simply paint over contact paper instead of removing it?

A: Painting directly over contact paper is not recommended. The paint will not adhere well to the plastic and is likely to bubble, peel, or discolor over time. It’s best to fully remove all of the contact paper and clean away any leftover adhesive before repainting metal cabinets for the most durable finish.