Tree sap can be a stubborn nuisance on outdoor tables, leaving sticky, hard-to-remove residue. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to tackle this problem using common household items.

1. Rubbing Alcohol or Hand Sanitizer: Apply a small amount to a cloth and gently rub the sap. The alcohol breaks down the sticky substance without damaging most table finishes.

2. Cooking Oil or Mayonnaise: Smear a thin layer on the sap, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wipe away. The oil softens the sap for easy removal.

3. Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with water to form a paste, apply to the sap, and scrub gently with a soft cloth or sponge.

4. Commercial Adhesive Removers: Products like Goo Gone work well for tough sap stains. Always test on a small area first.

5. Hot Soapy Water: For fresh sap, hot water with dish soap can sometimes dissolve the residue when scrubbed with a non-abrasive pad.

Prevention tip: Regularly clean your outdoor table and consider using a protective cover when not in use. Always rinse the table after sap removal to avoid leaving behind cleaning residues.

For stubborn, dried sap, you may need to repeat the process or try a combination of methods. Avoid using sharp objects to scrape the sap, as this can damage the table's surface.