Get unwanted glue off
If you’re a DIYer, sooner or later you’ll need to know how to remove super glue. It just goes with the territory! Why not find out here and be prepared?
How to remove a glue stain: The basics
The best thing about glue is that it bonds tightly to the material it is applied to. This, of course, is also the ‘worst’ thing about glue… if it gets somewhere that it shouldn’t be. But don’t worry - removing glue is usually possible, and we’ll show you how.
First of all, try to catch it before it dries - it will be much easier to remove. If it’s too late for that, though, don’t stress. Removing dried super glue is usually achievable if you soften it up as much as possible and then scrape, scrub, or dissolve it away.
How to remove super glue step by step
If possible, try to remove the super glue before it dries by wiping it away with a rag moistened with warm soapy water. This may take care of the problem. If the area is still tacky or the glue has dried, you’ll need to soften it up before trying to remove it. Wet a rag with acetone and apply it to the area. Leave the rag in contact with the stain or drip for several minutes. Once the super glue has softened up, start scraping it away with a knife edge, scraper, or similar tool.
Other solvents that may work well with some formulations of super glue include vinegar, denatured alcohol, and lighter fluid. A good policy is to try the least aggressive option first and work your way up if it's not working.
You can avoid many drips, spills, and accidents with super glue by choosing the best type of super glue for your application. There are many varieties of super glue. If using a liquid, you might want to choose one that comes in a precision applicator. That alone can make a big difference. If you’re working on a vertical surface or overhead, you might want to select a super glue gel. Its thicker consistency minimizes runs and drips.
How to remove super glue stains
Removing smears and stains is accomplished the same way as listed above and should be easier than removing spills or drips of glue. Wet a rag with the chosen solvent, leave it in contact with the stain for a minute or two, then wipe away. Finish up by wiping the area with a damp rag and then a dry one.
If the stain is in clothing or fabric, try using an old toothbrush to scrub it away after softening it up.
The easiest way to remove super glue residue and stains is with a quality glue remover. Loctite glue remover will do the trick. It removes glue from badly bonded objects, surfaces, and even accidentally bonded fingers.
If you want to avoid spilling or smearing super glue in the first place, you’ll need a glue with a precision applicator tip. Try Loctite Super Glue Control. This versatile adhesive forms fast and very durable bonds and comes in an easy-grip squeeze bottle for precise application. It allows you to get the glue just where you want it. It dries transparent, too, for a nearly invisible repair.