How Do You Remove Glitter From A Tumbler?

Glitter tumblers can add a fun, sparkly touch to your drinkware, but glitter can also be tricky to clean up and remove fully once applied. Here is some advice on the best ways to remove glitter from a tumbler if needed. Removing glitter from the interior of a tumbler takes a little work, but can be done with some simple household supplies. Here are the steps:

Use Hot Water And Dish Soap

The first method is to handwash the tumbler with hot water and dish soap. The heat from the water will help loosen the adhesive used to apply the glitter. Scrub the interior with a dish brush or sponge. The soap will help lift the glitter off the surface and allow you to rinse it away. Focus on scrubbing in areas where glitter is heavily accumulated.

Try Rubbing Alcohol

For glitter that is really stuck on and not coming off with just hot water, try using some rubbing alcohol. The alcohol will break down the adhesive. Dip a clean cloth or paper towel in rubbing alcohol and scrub at the glitter until it begins to lift. You may need to use a little elbow grease. The alcohol should dissolve the glue without damaging the tumbler.

Use Baking Soda

Make a paste with baking soda and water and use it to scrub off stubborn glitter adhesive. The abrasiveness of the baking soda combined with the water will gently scour the glitter glue from the surface. Rinse thoroughly afterwards.

Check For Any Residual Glitter

After scrubbing, rinse and inspect the tumbler closely under bright lighting to see that all traces of glitter have been removed from the interior surface. Pay special attention to any crevices where glitter may still be lurking. Remove any last bits with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or baking soda paste.

Removing Glitter From The Outside Of A Tumbler

Taking glitter off the outside of a tumbler takes some different techniques. Here is how to tackle exterior glitter:

Peel Off Chunks

If the glitter was applied to the outside with a thick adhesive, see if you can gently peel off any large pieces or flakes with your fingernails or a butter knife. Pull slowly so as not to scratch the tumbler. This will remove the top layers of glitter quickly.

Use Adhesive Remover

Test out a small dab of adhesive remover, such as Goo Gone, on an inconspicuous area first. If it doesn't damage the tumbler finish, apply it to a soft cloth and rub at the glitter to dissolve the glue. Keep wiping until the glitter is removed.

Try Nail Polish Remover

acetone-based nail polish remover can also work to dissolve many glitter glues. Dip a cotton ball in the remover and rub it over the glitter. The acetone will break down the adhesive and allow you to scrub the glitter off. Be cautious using acetone on any delicate tumbler finishes.

Buff With Baking Soda

Make a thicker paste of baking soda and water and use it to gently buff and scrub at exterior glitter, using a soft cloth or sponge. The baking soda will provide light abrasion to remove the glitter particles. Rinse and dry the tumbler well afterward.

Glitter Removal Tips And Warnings

Follow these tips when tackling glitter removal for the best results:

• Work slowly and gently to avoid scratching the tumbler
• Test products like adhesive remover on small hidden spots first
• Use soft cloths, sponges, cotton balls instead of anything abrasive
• Avoid immersing decorated tumblers fully in water or other liquids
• Start with the least harsh method and increase intensity as needed
• Be prepared to repeat the process multiple times for stubborn glitter
• Removing glitter likely works best soon after application vs. later on
• Know that 100% glitter removal may not be possible if bonded strongly

Step-By-Step Instructions

To summarize the glitter removal process in simple steps:

1. Try rubbing off any large chunks of glitter with your fingers
2. Scrub inside with hot water and dish soap using a brush or sponge
3. Use rubbing alcohol and cotton balls to dissolve adhesive
4. Make a baking soda paste and use to gently scour surface
5. Wipe with adhesive remover like Goo Gone if needed
6. Rinse, dry, and inspect closely to ensure glitter is fully removed
7. Repeat steps as necessary for any residual glitter

Take your time and use a light touch for best glitter removal results.

Conclusion

Removing glitter from a tumbler takes patience but can be accomplished with the proper technique. Hot water, dish soap, rubbing alcohol, baking soda, and adhesive removers applied gently can help dissolve the glue without damaging the cup. Consider just adding more glitter or spray paint alternatively for a new look instead of removing glitter if it proves too difficult. With some time and effort, your glitter tumbler can shine like new again.