What’s the safest way to remove stubborn sticker residue from a laptop?

Avoid acetone and other harsh solvents unless the manufacturer specifically says they’re safe. WD-40 may loosen adhesive, but it leaves an oily residue, so it should only be a last resort and must be cleaned off afterward. Always test any product in an inconspicuous spot first.

A dedicated adhesive remover such as Goo Gone, Goof Off, or 3M Adhesive Remover can work well. Test a tiny hidden area first, since some solvents can discolor or soften certain plastics. Wipe the area clean afterward with a slightly damp microfiber cloth.

For plastic surfaces, baby oil is a gentler first step. Apply a small amount to a paper towel or cloth, let it sit on the residue for a while, and then wipe it away. You may need to follow up with isopropyl alcohol to remove the oily film.

Start with 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth. Lightly dampen the cloth rather than pouring anything directly onto the laptop, then gently rub the residue until it lifts. Keep the laptop powered off and be careful around ports, seams, and the screen.