Removing strong glue (Super Glue) from fingers or an object
Fingers stuck? Don't panic, don't shoot!
Recommended Materials
- Acetone (Polish remover)
- Oil (Cooking or Body)
- Hot soapy water
Steps to follow
Step 1
The drama: You wanted to glue a vase back together and now you have your fingers stuck together or glue on your beautiful glass table. Super Glue (cyanoacrylate) hardens instantly on contact with humidity.
Step 2
On the skin (Fingers stuck together): Above all, DO NOT PULL! You risk tearing your skin. Dip your fingers in a bowl of warm, soapy water for 10 minutes. Try moving your fingers gently. If it resists, soak a cotton pad in Acetone (nail polish remover with acetone) and gently rub the stuck area. The glue will dissolve. Rinse and apply moisturizer (acetone dries the skin).
Step 3
On glass or metal: It's easy. Put acetone on a cloth and scrub. Or scrape gently with a razor blade tilted at 45°.
Step 4
On plastic: ATTENTION! Acetone melts a lot of plastics. Don't use it. Instead, try rubbing with vegetable (cooking) oil or household alcohol. Be patient, it takes time.
Step 5
On varnished wood: Acetone will attack the varnish. Try very gently sanding the glue stain with fine sandpaper, then refinish the area.
Step 6
On clothing: Place an absorbent paper (paper towel) on the glue stain. Run a hot iron over it. The heat will melt the glue which will be absorbed by the paper. Finish with a little acetone if the fabric supports it (cotton).
Frequently Asked Questions
Razor ?
On glass or a smooth surface, you can scrape gently with an inclined razor blade. Be careful not to scratch the support.
Precautions
- Acetone is very flammable and irritating.
- Ventilate well.
