Security tags refer to small electronic items which are affixed to retail items so as to ward off theft. Such anti-theft mechanisms are designed and intended to go when a person tries to steal by exiting a store without deactivating. Security tags are most often magnetic, radio frequency, or ink based.

On rare occasions some cashiers forget to check out security tags. This disappoints the customers when they find their items still tagged at home after purchase. The labels may wear out clothes or make items unusable. The future shopping trips can be challenged by activated tags triggering store alarms.

This blog describes how to remove security tags at home safely. We discuss various forms of tags and how best to remove them. The guide focuses on safety especially to protect your purchased items and yourself. Some types of tags or valuable merchandise may need the help of a professional.

Understanding Security Tags

Magnetic Security Tags

The most popular type, such as clothing tags, is magnetic. These rigid plastic appliances are pinned to cloth. The tag contains a very powerful magnet that responds to store exit computers. The pin can be released only with a strong magnet or special tool.

This pin is kept held in the magnetic field until it gets deactivated accordingly. These tags are detached conveniently by the store employees with magnetic detachers. Home removal can be done with caution not to break the tagged item.

Ink Security Tags

The ink tags have a dab of permanent dye housed in the plastic container. The tags will open up in case of incorrect tampering. The dropped ink permanently colors clothing or other materials making them useless.

There is a lot of caution that is needed when removing ink tags. This can easily destroy costly garments in one stroke. The dye in these tags is especially made in such a way that it cannot be removed out of fabric.

Radio Frequency Identification Tags

RFID tags are flat strips that can be sewed onto clothing or be affixed to products. These tags have wireless communication to the store detection systems. It is also easy to conceal them in packages of products or even in seams of clothing, making them hard to find.

RFIDs usually are rendered inactive at checkout, but glitches in the system might make a tag remain active. The tags tend to be simple to take off compared to magnetic or ink.

Safe Removal Techniques

Using Strong Magnets

Powerful neodymium magnets can remove magnetic security tags successfully. Put the magnet to the dome part of the tag, which is the part opposite the pin. The pin mechanics should be released by the magnetic field and then easy removal occurs.

Press the magnet onto the tag and hold it there for a few seconds. The mechanism may be heard clicking when released. After loosening the pin, pull the tag away from the cloth gently.

Freezing Method

Ink tags can be frozen so as to make them brittle and easy to remove safely. Wrap the tagged item into a plastic bag to ensure that moisture does not destroy it. Keep the product in the freezer several hours or overnight.

Take the item out of the freezer and go promptly, do not let the tag thaw. With pliers hold the tag firmly and twist off the pin. This cold may crack the plastic making it brittle.

Professional Tool Alternative

Magnetic tags can also be, to some extent, removed by simple pressure of rubber bands. Put several thick rubber bands on the pin of the tag. The releasing magnetic mechanism can be released after high pressure exerted at all times.

When to Seek Professional Help

High-Value Items

Expensive accessories or designer clothing should be taken seriously. The professional removal is low relative to the replacement of broken luxury products. Tailors or dry cleaners usually possess appropriate means of removable safety tags.

Using professionals results in the security of your valuable items. These service vendors are familiar with various forms of tags and extraction methods. They are also able to recommend any damage risks.

Stubborn or Damaged Tags

Labels that are hard to get off of the first attempt are likely to be damaged on the inside. Further attempts to remove it can harm your item and the tag. The use of professional assistance is at hand when home approaches prove useless.

Broken tags can leak and lose their mechanism. Such cases should be handled properly by the person with the right experience. Professional eradication reduces further destruction.

Store Return Option

The easiest idea is to go back to the original store. With the right equipment, store workers can de-tag products at higher speed. This is the best option only when you still have your receipt, and the store is close to you.

Preventing Future Incidents

Checkout Awareness

Before leaving the shop, look at your stuff. Try to find any tag or sensor still attached to your bought items. This is a simple habit that could be used to curtail the majority of the tag related problems.

Receipt Organisation

It is good to have receipts neat and readily available after shopping. Receipts will be written evidence in case you want to come back to remove tags. Staff in stores are able to check your purchase and undo tags with no doubts.

Conclusion

At home a security tag can be removed with the proper knowledge and tools. Various tag types demand certain removal methods to make it safe and avoid damages. Magnetic tags are good with strong magnets, whereas ink tags are better with freezing.

Careful removal is possible through professional assistance, though. With the correct equipment, store employees are able to detag quickly and safely. This service keeps your products in the best state.

FAQs

What do I do when I trigger the alarm by mistake when exiting a store?

When store alarms go off, stop and relax. Go back to customer service carrying your receipt and explain to them what happened. 

Is it possible that a distorted security tag destroys my clothes?

Yes, security tags can cause clothes to be permanently stained, particularly, ink tags. Ink tags contain a permanent dye that can barely be washed off. 

Does opening a security tag on a purchased item count as a crime?

No, it is not criminal to remove security checks on items lawfully bought. It is yours, and you have a right to take tags off.