Homebrew Underground

Many people have asked in some of the homebrew forums how to remove labels from beer bottles. I have read the messages from users who recommend soaking the bottles in PBW™ solution and others using WD-40 to dissolve the glue, but I found a really easy way. The labels will soften up and come off by filling up a large basin (about 7 to 9 gallons) of hot water with about 2/3rds to 3/4ths of a cup of Tide laundry detergent (or other brand of strong powdered laundry detergent). Let the bottles soak for at least an hour, then use a single sided razor blade or utility knife blade and scrape off the labels, then place the bottles back into the detergent solution for a few more minutes to soften up the remaining glue, then wipe off the remaining residue with a dry towel.

After you do this step, the bottles must be cleaned as usual with PBW and a bottle brush to remove any trace of the laundry detergent solution.