Can you handle white spirits? You have to be careful with it, but a tiny bit on a paper towel takes off stickiness from stickers really well, and then just wash the Lego in soapy water to get rid of the residue/smell afterwards. But do be careful and always read the safety instructions, and it does smell very strongly.
Can you handle white spirits
Can you handle white spirits
Totally understand!
Perhaps scrubbing with an old tooth brush after a long soak might help?