---
title: "FAQ: How Should I Clean Surfaces Before Applying Adhesive Tape?"
description: Read to learn the exceptions. For the best bonding of adhesive tapes, most substrates (surfaces) are best prepared by cleaning with a 50:50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water prior to applying 3M™ Tapes.
---

[Engineered 3M and Velcro Solutions | Blog | Gleicher Mfg ](https://www.gleicher.com/blog)

# [FAQ: How Should I Clean Surfaces Before Applying Adhesive Tape?](https://www.gleicher.com/blog/faq-whats-the-best-way-to-clean-the-surfaces-before-applying-adhesive-tape)

 Written by [Doug Sanderson](https://www.gleicher.com/blog/author/doug-sanderson) | Mon, Jul 01, 2024

 

Most substrates (surfaces) are best prepared by cleaning with a 50:50 mixture of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and water but some exceptions may require additional surface preparation before applying 3M™ Tapes.

The 5 most common exceptions:

- Degreaser: A degreaser or solvent-based cleaner may be required to remove heavy oil or grease from a surface and should be followed by cleaning with IPA/water.
- Abrasion: Abrading a surface, followed by cleaning with IPA/water, can remove heavy dirt or oxidation and can increase surface area to improve adhesion.
- Adhesion Promoters: Priming a surface can significantly improve initial and ultimate adhesion to many materials such as plastics and paints.
- Sealing: Most porous and fibered materials such as wood, particleboard, and concrete, need to be sealed to provide a unified surface.
- Other: Special surface preparation may be needed for glass and glass-like materials, copper and copper containing metals and plastics, or rubber that contains components that migrate (e.g., plasticizers).

[Click to Ask Gleicher](https://www.gleicher.com/adhesive-bonding/custom-die-cut) about your industrial assembly or manufacturing challenge.

Call 888.818.5798 or email us at [sales@Gleicher.com.](mailto:sales@Gleicher.com)

 

[View full post](https://www.gleicher.com/blog/faq-whats-the-best-way-to-clean-the-surfaces-before-applying-adhesive-tape)

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