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Sandy asked: How do I remove sticky latex from hardwood floor? The latex backing on my rug has turned sticky, and the 5×7 rug is now stuck to the hardwood floor. I didn’t have a pad under it, since it has a large bench on it and isn’t walked on. My housekeeper said that she didn’t mop under it and leave moisture. I want to clean this off properly since my home is a historic home, and the floors are original. The rug is being thrown out and replaced. Thank you!
This method is safe and highly effective when it comes to removing sticky messes from most surfaces, including finished hardwood. If your floors are unfinished, check additional tips and advice for an alternative that will work on your type of flooring.
You Will Need:
- WD-40
- Cloth scouring pads
Steps to Remove the Sticky Latex:
- Apply WD-40 to the latex. It is best to work in small sections.
- Wait up to five minutes. Thick layers of latex may require a longer wait for the WD-40 to penetrate and work. The WD-40 will break the bond between the latex and the floor and allow it to be removed.
- Once it is beginning to loosen, begin wiping the latex away with the cloth scouring pad. Be sure to change pads once they’re gummed up with latex to maintain effective cleaning.
- Repeat until all of the latex is removed.
- Use a soft cloth to remove any remaining residue from the WD-40.
Additional Tips and Advice
- Although WD-40 will not dry on the floor, it’s still best to work in small sections.
- Once you’re finished, use your regular floor cleaner to remove the WD-40 from the floor. If the residue remains, it will create a dangerous, slippery area.
- If your wood floors are unfinished, most attempts at cleaning will stain the floor. Instead, use fine grit sandpaper to remove the mess. Once it’s clean, re-finish to match the rest of the floor.
2.5 hrs later…doesn’t work at all; just have a massive headache instead. I will try the steam method.
WD-40 and a heat gun did it for me. 6 hours for 30 sq. ft. of floor… It was painful. But, the floor looks great.
We have a Hahn floor steamer that has a small nozzle attachment which concentrates the steam. I just tried directing the steam on a small section of the stuck, dried on latex and it worked like magic! Have to use a rag to rub the stuff off after the steam loosens it. I am so happy not to have to use chemicals.
I am restoring an old home; it has unfinished, hand-laid, slat board floors… They used a rubber-backed runner rug in the hallway (approximately 15 feet long) and the rubber backing has left a thick residue that I would like to clean off without compromising the wood. What can I use for this project? It is driving me crazy trying to find a solution!!
Barbara,
This is the article that you need: How to Remove Rubber Feet Stains from Wood.
This really works; I’m very impressed.
Problem: 6 sticky pads holding a rug onto a real oak wood floor that were just impossible to remove whatever I tried.
Solution: WD-40 as above. Brilliant!
Just found this site. Thanks. I have a mess and you have given a solution.
Does WD-40 work on car upholstery? My grandson left a popped balloon in my car and it melted in our 104 degree temps here.
Lori,
Yes, WD-40 will work on car upholstery. The WD-40 website says, “WD-40 also works well in the car’s interior. If the upholstery or carpet has been soiled with crayon or greasy fingerprints, a spray of WD-40 on the affected area and a gentle rubbing with a cloth can remove the stain. It is also used to remove gum stuck in carpeting or between seats. It is suggested to wash with soap and water after removal.”
I would also suggest that you lower the car windows for several hours to ventilate any fumes. Good luck!
Source: WD-40 – Car Clean-Up is Easy With WD-40
The WD-40 suggestion worked perfectly on my hardwood floor, removing the goopy latex in a 5×8 area. After removing the latex, I followed up with Murphy Oil Soap to pick up any residue. Thank you!!