How to Remove Super Glue from Almost Anything

Super glue and Gorilla Glue are miracle workers when it comes to quick fixes—whether you’re repairing metal, ceramic, leather, rubber, vinyl or certain plastics. But anyone who has used these ultra-adhesive solutions knows that figuring out how to remove super glue can be tricky.

“Super glue is incredibly difficult to remove because it is extremely strong,” explains Guy Peters, owner and founder of the cleaning company Mop Stars. “A 1-square-inch bond can hold more than a ton!” With strength like that, it’s no wonder removing it can be a challenge.

Luckily, there are safe and effective methods to get rid of super glue from practically any surface. We turned to Peters to find out exactly how to get super glue off clothes, skin, glass, fabric, wood and more. Below, he shares step-by-step solutions to your stickiest super glue problems.

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How super glue works

One reason super glue removal is tough? How fast it sets. Unlike other glues, which may take minutes to bond, super glue forms a powerful hold in just a few seconds.

The chemical reaction that creates this bond requires only a trace of water—and since moisture is everywhere (on your hands, on the surface you’re gluing and even in the air), the adhesive locks in almost instantly. Gorilla Glue formulas work in a similar way, creating a nearly unbreakable bond in under a minute.

That’s why you need special solvents or techniques to undo it.

What removes super glue?

Acetone is the go-to ingredient for removing nail polish and sticker residue, but it is also extremely useful for dissolving super glue. That said, it’s not always your best bet.

“If you are not careful, you may end up removing more than you bargained for,” warns Peters. “That’s because while acetone is a great solvent for super glue, it can also remove the finish from wood, paint off walls, dissolve plastics and even damage some fabrics.” Plus, acetone is extremely flammable, so you need to use it with caution.

The bottom line: Acetone will do the trick, but when choosing how to get super glue off, the method largely depends on the surface. Here are common products that can help:

• Acetone
• Nail polish remover
• Rubbing alcohol
• Hand sanitizer
• Sandpaper
• White vinegar
• Soapy water (for skin)
• Olive oil (best for skin or small amounts)
• Lighter fluid
• Nitromethane

How to get super glue off skin

Accidentally glued your fingers together? Don’t panic. According to the Original Super Glue company, the best method uses soap and water.

1. Vigorously apply warm, soapy water to the area. “The soap can help break up the bond a little, but it will take time,” explains Peters.
2. Scrub the area with a sponge or washcloth—but be gentle and use light pressure.
3. Continue light scrubbing until the glue starts to slowly flake off.
4. “Use caution with large pieces, as you do not want to accidentally pull the skin off,” Peters advises. “Remember, this stuff is strong, so be prepared to go through a couple of washing cycles.”

How to remove super glue from glass

The good news, when it comes to removing super glue from glass, is that it is pretty durable. Peters maintains that your best option is going to be acetone/nail polish remover, followed by rubbing alcohol-based products. Lighter fluid is also a good option.

1. Apply acetone, nail polish remover or rubbing alcohol to a cotton ball or cloth.
2. Blot and rub in small circles with firm pressure.
3. If it doesn’t lift immediately, let the solvent sit for a few minutes.
4. Repeat as needed.

How to remove super glue from plastic

Acetone can be pretty harsh on many fabrics, so it’s usually best to avoid it when removing super glue from clothing. Instead, Peters says rubbing alcohol will work for fabrics like cotton and polyester. “Even wool can handle some rubbing alcohol, but leather will require a different approach,” he adds.

For leather, consider using vinegar, which is less harsh but still effectively removes the super glue. “You might need to give it more time than some other compounds and work it in a bit more vigorously, but it should get the job done,” says Peters.

Another, more surprising option? WD-40. “The WD-40 loosens up the glue so it can be removed. But the reason this option is one of my favorites is that WD-40 is actually good for leather in general and can be used to soften it up,” Peters reveals. So not only can you remove the glue, but you can also give your leather a bit of a tune-up.

Whether you’re using rubbing alcohol, vinegar or WD-40, apply a small amount to a clean cloth and scrub vigorously until the super glue starts to come off.

How to get super glue off upholstery and carpeting

Removing super glue from upholstery will depend on the type of fabric, but for the most part, you’ll need to avoid acetone. The solvent helps get paint out of clothes, so it should come as no surprise that acetone can remove color from fabrics and carpeting. “Acetone can wash out color from carpet, so you could go from a stiff spot of super glue to a bleached-out circle,” Peters points out.

He also suggests avoiding vinegar on carpets—it could easily soak in, and you’ll be left with the smell for quite some time.

So what works? Rubbing alcohol is a better cleaning solution. It’s your best option for upholstery, and most carpets can also handle it without issue. But as always, test in a hidden spot first.

How to remove super glue from metal

Metal is usually one of the easier items to remove super glue from, as it’s tough enough to withstand acetone without issue, according to Peters. “Just be careful when applying the acetone that you don’t get it on another nearby material,” he says.

How to remove super glue from wood

The first thing to consider is whether or not the wood is finished or unfinished. “Unfinished wood is easy—just apply our trusty acetone,” Peters says.

However, finished wood or wooden furniture is a little trickier because the acetone can remove the finish. “Not only will this end up looking strange, but it could impact the life of the wood,” he explains. “If you’re very careful, you can try using a Q-tip with acetone on it to apply to the super-glued area. This works great for small spots.”

If you don’t want to risk it, try a product with nitromethane. “It’s specifically designed to remove glue and nothing else,” Peters says. You can also try mineral oil, which can help loosen up the glue so you can scrape it off.

Expert tips for removing super glue

As a professional cleaner, Peters doesn’t just know how to dissolve Gorilla Glue, Krazy glue and all other forms of glue. He also knows how to do it effectively and efficiently. As you follow the steps above for removing super glue from various surfaces, keep these additional expert-backed tips in mind.

Scrape away the glue

Before you attempt to remove super glue from your item with a solution, Peters suggests starting by manually removing as much as you can. “While this can be a little risky, sometimes the best option is to try and scrape the glue off,” he says. “With something pliable like cloth, you can stretch and wiggle the fabric to break up the glue.”

For harder materials like wood, metal and some plastics, you can scrape the glue off with a razor blade or even sandpaper. But skip this step if you’ve super-glued your skin.

Make use of cotton swabs

Q-tips can be a great way to apply acetone or other solvents to small areas of super glue. “Q-tips will let you get plenty of acetone on the area, but there will also be very little risk of using too much,” says Peters. “If you’re careful, you can use this technique to remove glue from sensitive surfaces like plastic and finished wood by only getting the acetone on the actual glue. But be careful!”

FAQs

Can you peel super glue off your skin?

It’s best not to peel it off—you might remove skin along with the glue. Instead, soak it in warm soapy water and scrub gently until it flakes away.

What is the best way to dissolve Gorilla Glue on plastic?

Nitromethane is your best bet. It’s specifically designed to dissolve strong adhesives without harming most plastics. As with super glue, you’ll want to avoid using acetone, as it may damage plastic.

Wondering how to dissolve Gorilla Glue on other materials? First, remember that Gorilla Glue is a brand that makes super glue and other strong glues. So you can use the same methods to remove it that you’d use on super glue. Scroll up to find the surface that fits your situation—say, skin or clothing—then follow the steps for removal.

Can vinegar help dissolve Gorilla Glue?

Yes, vinegar can help soften Gorilla Glue, especially on fabrics and leather. It may take more time and effort than acetone, but it’s a safer choice for delicate materials.

Is WD-40 safe for removing super glue from fabric?

WD-40 can work well on leather, conditioning it while loosening the glue. However, it’s not recommended for most fabrics, as it can leave an oily stain. Stick to rubbing alcohol for fabric and upholstery.

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Sources:

• Guy Peters, owner and founder of Mop Stars
• The Original Super Glue: “Super Glue Remover”
• Krazy Glue: “How do I remove crazy glue from my counter tops?”

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