How to Remove Carpet Glue from Hardwood Floors

Pulled up old carpet and discovered gorgeous hardwood floors underneath — buried in carpet glue?

Don’t reach for a scraper yet.

The wrong move here could damage the wood permanently.

Step one — apply citrus solvent first.

A citrus-based adhesive remover — powered by d-limonene from orange peel — is the safest and most effective first step on hardwood.

Apply it directly to the glue and let it dwell for five minutes.

It penetrates and softens the adhesive bond without raising the grain, discoloring the wood, or stripping the finish.

Step two — scrape gently.

Once softened, use a plastic scraper — never metal — and work with the grain of the wood.

The glue releases cleanly without fighting you.

Step three — wipe clean and inspect.

One final wipe removes any remaining residue — leaving your hardwood floors clean, intact, and ready to sand, stain, or refinish.

Citrus solvent. The wood-safe way to reclaim your floors.