How To Remove Super Glue From Plastic - The Family Handyman

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How to Remove Super Glue from Plastic

By Melanie Radzicki McManus

Family Handyman's Editorial Process

Updated on Apr. 03, 2023

Super glue is great! Until you need to remove it, that is, especially from something plastic.

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Introduction

It's definitely possible to remove old super glue from plastic. You just need patience.

Tools Required

• Bowl
• Cotton balls
• Knife or razor blade
• Plastic wrap
• Soft cloths
• Tape

Materials Required

• Acetone
• Dish soap
• Nitromethane component
• Rubbing alcohol

Project step-by-step (5)

Step 1

Soften the Glue

Put a small amount of dish soap in a bowl of warm water, then moisten a soft cloth. Place the cloth over the glue and leave it there for at least three hours to soften the glue. To ensure the cloth stays damp, tape a sheet of plastic wrap over it.

ⓘ back to content Step 2

Blot Up Softened Glue

Once the glue is softened, blot it with a clean cloth until all of the glue is removed. Do not rub the softened glue, or you will spread it around.

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Complete DIY projects like a pro! Sign up for our newsletter! Sign up Do It Right, Do It Yourself! Step 3

Swap Soapy Water for Rubbing Alcohol or Acetone

If the soapy water isn’t strong enough to remove the super glue residue from plastic, try using rubbing alcohol or acetone instead. Both of these liquids are harsher than soapy water, and may damage the plastic. So, first test the rubbing alcohol or acetone on a small, hidden area. If it doesn’t damage the plastic, moisten a cotton ball with the rubbing alcohol or acetone and blot at the super glue until it softens. Then blot away the soft glue with a clean cloth. Check out this collection of 33 ways to remove super glue. They may surprise you!.

Step 4

Swap Soapy Water for a Nitromethane Component

Another option for softening and removing the glue is a nitromethane component. A nitromethane component is milder than acetone, but stronger than soapy water. Use it to remove super glue from plastic in the same way as acetone. You can find this de-bonding agent at hobby stores, where it’s also called a de-glue solution.

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Step 5

Scrape Away with a Knife or Razor Blade

If you’re trying to remove excess super glue residue from plastic, take a knife or razor blade and gently scrape off the residue, taking great care not to damage the plastic.

Here are eight brilliant ways to use a razor blade.

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