I rubbed rubbing alcohol on the area and heated the strip with a hand dryer to soften the caulk. I put tape around the base of the toilet. Some parts stick well, some don't. I personally wouldn't recommend this tape unless you're desperate and have other products available to help with that stickiness. The clutch is not strong enough. After 5 minutes the seal was completely peeled off. Totally unsatisfied! To return!