Tips for Removing Superglue from Clothing

If you're looking for tips for removing superglue from clothing, you probably know it's one of the most difficult substances to get off of any surface. (I learned this from experience, as I once accidentally glued a couple of fingers together while building a doll house, and it wasn't pretty. Getting them separated required removing a couple layers of skin.) The good news is that there's one substance which dissolves superglue, and it's readily available in every drugstore. Acetone nail polish remover will get superglue right out of clothing.

If you have nail polish remover in your house, check to make sure acetone is an ingredient. Many nail polish removers these days are non-acetone, and they advertise themselves as such because acetone also dissolves acrylic nails. Also, there are colored nail polish removers and clear ones-- choose a clear one or the chemical that provides the color may stain your fabric as well.

First, make sure the glue is fully dry before you start trying to remove it. In this case, that will make the process easier. Next, do a small dab test on the inside hem of the garment to make sure that it doesn't damage the cloth. Acetone is a strong solvent, (it's also what's used in paint thinner,) so this test is a step you can't afford to skip.

Soak a paper towel with the nail polish remover and dab the spot with it, keeping the towel up against the fabric for a few minutes. Next, brush the spot vigorously with a wire-bristle brush. (If you don't have one of these lying around, you can find them easily at the pet store). Treat the rear of the stain similarly in case any glue has seeped through the fabric.

Repeat the soaking and brushing on both sides until you've gotten as much glue off as possible. Next, treat the stain with a stain-fighting laundry detergent by applying it directly on the spot and rubbing it in. Launder as you normally would. When the cycle is over, check to make sure the glue is gone.

If it is, you can put it in the dryer, but if not, avoid drying as it will make the stain set and make it impossible to remove. If the nail polish remover doesn't work, the last resort for removing superglue from clothing is to go to the hardware store and get superglue solvent. These solutions can be very harsh, so the dab test is an absolute must.