How to Remove Super Glue
Super glue comes in handy when you need to mend a broken picture frame or coffee mug or reattach a heel or sole to a shoe. It can even fix handles that have come off tools or cooking utensils and help with some woodworking projects. However, sometimes the glue gets on surfaces you don’t want it to, no matter how careful you are. When that happens, it’s important to act quickly to prevent potential damage. Most methods of super glue removal use products that can likely be found around your home.
Wait for the super glue to dry before trying to clean it from any surface. If it’s still wet, it can smear and make it messier and harder to remove. For any removal method, always test a small area on the surface you’re removing the glue from first to make sure it won’t cause additional damage. It’s also important to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for super glue use and removal.
Metal, Wood, Plastic and Fabric Surfaces
Acetone: Found in most nail polish removers, acetone is the go-to option for super glue removal and generally works well on most of these surfaces. Be careful using acetone on varnished wood and even some fabrics as it can cause additional damage. Apply the acetone to the gluey area with a cotton ball, giving it a few minutes to work. Then use a soft cloth, like microfiber, to wipe away. Repeat these steps as needed until the glue is completely removed. If using acetone on fabric, like clothing, consider applying it with an old toothbrush instead of a cotton ball. This helps prevent using too much acetone, which can ruin the fabric.
White Vinegar: With similar acidic properties to acetone, white vinegar can also break down the bond between super glue and the surface it’s on. Using a cotton ball, dab the area with the vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes before using a plastic scraper to gently loosen the residue. Once it’s completely removed, rinse and wipe the surface clean with a cloth. White vinegar is a good alternative for removing super glue from metal surfaces.
Vegetable, Coconut or Olive Oils: Any of these oils can help remove a glue spill. Just spread the oil on the area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then using a plastic scraper, gently loosen the glue from the surface. You may need to repeat the process a few times to completely remove the glue. As with the other methods, wipe the area with a clean cloth once the glue has detached. Coconut or olive oil can be a good choice for wood if you don’t have acetone on hand.
Once the glue has broken down and you’ve wiped it away, there may still be residue left over. For this, try fine grit sandpaper. You can also try a plastic paint scraper or use a credit card or your fingernails if sandpaper or a scraper isn't available. Note, these additional methods are best for hard surfaces.
How to Get Super Glue Off Skin
Start by washing your hands (or the area of skin where the super glue is) with warm, soapy water. Depending on how quickly you can get to a sink, this may be all you need to do to get the glue off your skin. For more stubborn removals, try using nail polish remover on the area after washing. White vinegar and vegetable oil, coconut oil or olive oil can also work. If there’s still leftover residue, an emery board can help you gently buff away the rest.
An emery board can also be used on hard surfaces to gently sand away any remaining glue that’s left behind after using one of the above methods. Always use precaution when sanding or scraping any leftover glue off a surface to avoid causing damage.