How To Remove Labels From Jars Like A Chemist - Chemistry Cachet First, soak your jars in hot soapy water for awhile. I always give it about 15-30 minutes. This removes most of the label, but there is always residue and leftover paper stuck somewhere. Next, mix equal parts blue dawn and baking soda until it is a paste. Then, rub it all over the jars where the residue is left.