Find best solvent to remove super glue from 10 Tested Choices 2025

We’ve all been there: a quick fix with super glue turns into a sticky mess, leaving behind stubborn, dried adhesive on skin, countertops, or precious items. Frustrating, right? I’ve personally faced this dilemma countless times, from accidentally gluing my fingers together to dealing with spilled cyanoacrylate on a workbench. Finding the best solvent to remove super glue isn’t always straightforward, as different glues and surfaces require specific approaches. That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide, testing out 10 popular options to help you effectively tackle any super glue mishap. Let’s dive in and get those surfaces clean again!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Bob Smith Industries BSI-161H UN-CURE Super Glue Debonder,…	View on Amazon
	Damn Good Super Glue Remover – Cleaner 30 ml (64230DG),…	View on Amazon
	STARBOND Super Glue Remover, Dissolves Adhesive, CA Glue…	View on Amazon
	Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover, Gel Formula for Maximum…	View on Amazon
	Tape in Extension Remover Hair Glue Remover, Fast Acting…	View on Amazon
	Gtechniq – W7 Tar and Glue Remover – Full Strength…	View on Amazon
	Hair Adhesive Fast Remover 4oz/120ml, Tape in Extension…	View on Amazon
	Mighty Melt Adhesive Remover | For Sticky and Gooey…	View on Amazon
	Super Glue Corp/Pacer TECH SGR Glue Remover Gel, 5g	View on Amazon
	BUFFZIT Car Adhesive Remover – Glue Removal Spray for…	View on Amazon

1. Bob Smith Industries BSI-161H UN-CURE Super Glue Debonder

This debonder from Bob Smith Industries is a go-to for hobbyists and crafters, known for its ability to tackle tough cyanoacrylate (CA) glue messes. It’s a reliable option that effectively softens and dissolves dried super glue, making it easier to clean up spills or separate accidentally bonded parts. Its formulation is designed to work without damaging most surfaces, though a spot test is always recommended.

Key features that stand out:
– Reliable Performance: Specifically formulated to de-bond CA super glues.
– Versatile Use: Ideal for hobbyists, model builders, and general household super glue mishaps.
– Compact Size: Easy to store and handle for precise application.

Pros:
– Effectively dissolves cyanoacrylate glues.
– Widely trusted in the hobby community.
– Good for separating bonded items.
Cons:
– May require multiple applications for very thick or old glue.

Best for: Hobbyists, model makers, and general household super glue clean-up on non-delicate surfaces.

Expert Opinion: This product is a solid choice specifically engineered for cyanoacrylate adhesives. Its reputation in the hobby world speaks volumes about its effectiveness in dissolving “super glue.”

2. Damn Good Super Glue Remover – Cleaner 30 ml (64230DG)

Living up to its name, the Damn Good Super Glue Remover is a powerful solution designed to dissolve even the toughest dried super glue. This concentrated formula is highly effective on various materials, from metal to glass, making it a versatile tool for both the home and workshop. It prides itself on being more effective than simple acetone for stubborn glue, offering a robust solution when other methods fail.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Dissolver: Effectively breaks down the most stubborn dried cyanoacrylate adhesives.
– Multi-Surface Use: Safe for use on metal, stone, glass, and more.
– Acetone Alternative: Outperforms standard acetone for challenging super glue removal.

Pros:
– Highly effective on dried super glue.
– Works on a wide range of surfaces.
– Made in the U.S.A.
Cons:
– Smaller bottle size might not be enough for very large spills.

Best for: Tough, dried super glue on resilient surfaces where acetone isn’t cutting it.

Expert Opinion: For those really challenging super glue messes, this “Damn Good” remover truly stands out. It’s a strong contender for the best solvent to remove super glue when you need maximum dissolving power.

3. STARBOND Super Glue Remover, Dissolves Adhesive, CA Glue

Starbond offers a super glue remover in a user-friendly gel formula, which is a significant advantage over watery liquids. This gel consistency means less mess and better control during application, allowing you to target the glue without excessive run-off. It’s a milder, non-acetone formula, designed to be less harsh on surfaces while still effectively softening and dissolving CA glue over 10-15 minutes.

Key features that stand out:
– Gel Formula: Easier to apply with more control and less mess compared to liquids.
– Mild & Non-Acetone: Less harsh on surfaces, reducing the risk of damage.
– Built-in Brush Cap: Convenient applicator for precise and easy use.

Pros:
– Gel consistency prevents dripping.
– Less harsh than acetone.
– Built-in brush makes application simple.
Cons:
– Requires patience, as it’s not an instant-acting formula.

Best for: Controlled application on delicate surfaces, vertical surfaces, and situations where you want to avoid harsh solvents.

Expert Opinion: The gel formula makes this product incredibly practical for spot treatment, minimizing collateral damage. It’s a great option for those who prioritize control and surface safety when looking for the best solvent to remove super glue.

4. Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover, Gel Formula for Maximum

Krazy Fix brings its own gel formula to the super glue removal game, specifically engineered to dissolve tough adhesive bonds. This product is a versatile solution for removing hardened glue from wood, plastic, ceramics, and even skin. The gel format ensures more controlled application and less mess, and it thoughtfully includes a plastic spatula to assist in scraping away softened adhesive.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Gel Formula: Dissolves tough glue bonds with maximum control and minimal mess.
– Versatile Application: Effective on wood, plastic, ceramics, and skin.
– Includes Spatula: Convenient tool for effortless glue removal after softening.

Pros:
– Gel consistency offers precise application.
– Works on a variety of common surfaces, including skin.
– Spatula aids in clean-up.
Cons:
– Best results often require letting it sit for a few minutes.

Best for: General household super glue removal on multiple surfaces, including accidental skin contact, where a controlled application is preferred.

Expert Opinion: The Krazy Fix gel formula is a strong contender, especially with the included spatula, which is a thoughtful addition. It’s a reliable choice if you need a controlled, effective solvent to remove super glue from various materials.

5. Tape in Extension Remover Hair Glue Remover, Fast Acting

This product is specifically designed for removing hair extension tape and wig glue, offering a fast-acting and gentle solution. While its primary use is hair-related, it’s formulated to dissolve adhesive bonds quickly without damaging hair or skin. Infused with citrus extracts, it aims to be a mild yet effective remover for certain types of stickiness, not super glue (cyanoacrylate).

Key features that stand out:
– Fast Acting: Removes wig glue in 60 seconds and tape extensions in 3 minutes.
– Mild Formula: Infused with citrus extracts (orange and lemon) for skin-friendly removal.
– Mist Spray: Easy to use and control dosage, making it suitable for beginners.

Pros:
– Gentle on skin and hair.
– Pleasant citrus scent.
– Easy spray application.
Cons:
– Not suitable for cyanoacrylate super glue removal.

Best for: Removing hair extension tape, wig glue, and other hair-related adhesives.

Expert Opinion: It’s crucial to understand that this product is not a solvent to remove super glue (cyanoacrylate). It is highly effective for its intended purpose of hair extension and wig glue removal, using a mild, skin-safe formula.

6. Gtechniq – W7 Tar and Glue Remover – Full Strength

Gtechniq’s W7 Tar and Glue Remover is a powerful cleaning solution specifically engineered for automotive surfaces. It effortlessly dissolves tar spots, tree sap, and various glue residues (like those from old decals) from car paintwork and wheels. Developed by a quantum physicist, it uses advanced molecular nanotechnology to deliver exceptional results without harming protective coatings.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Cleaner: Effortlessly dissolves tar, glue spots, and residue from paintwork, wheels, and exhaust.
– Safe on Coatings: Won’t damage protective coatings, waxes, and sealants (but not for PPF or wraps).
– Advanced Technology: Developed with molecular nanotechnology for superior performance.

Pros:
– Highly effective on automotive tar and glues.
– Safe for most car paint finishes.
– Easy spray-on and rinse-off application.
Cons:
– Not designed for cyanoacrylate super glue removal.

Best for: Removing tar, adhesive residue from car decals, tree sap, and other specific automotive glues from vehicle surfaces.

Expert Opinion: While excellent for automotive tar and specific car adhesives, this is not your best solvent to remove super glue (cyanoacrylate). Its strong formulation is tailored for exterior vehicle residues and should not be used for general super glue spills.

7. Hair Adhesive Fast Remover 4oz/120ml, Tape in Extension

Similar to product #5, this is another specialized hair adhesive remover, perfect for quickly and painlessly taking off tape-in extensions and wig glue. It boasts a fast-acting formula that dissolves bonds in minutes, leaving no greasy residue. With a pleasant coconut scent and citrus extracts, it’s gentle on the scalp and hair, making wig or extension removal a much smoother process.

Key features that stand out:
– Fast Acting: Removes wig glue in 60 seconds and tape extensions in 3 minutes without pain.
– Skin-Friendly: Contains citrus extracts (orange and lemon) for safe use on hair and scalp.
– Coconut Scented: Pleasant aroma and leaves no greasy residue.

Pros:
– Works quickly for hair extension removal.
– Gentle and skin-friendly.
– Leaves hair non-oily with a pleasant scent.
Cons:
– Ineffective for cyanoacrylate super glue.

Best for: Efficient and gentle removal of hair extension tape, wig glue, and cosmetic adhesives from skin and hair.

Expert Opinion: Again, this product is designed for hair adhesives, not super glue. It excels in its specific niche, offering a gentle and effective solution for wig and extension removal, but it is not a solvent to remove super glue (cyanoacrylate).

8. Mighty Melt Adhesive Remover | For Sticky and Gooey

Mighty Melt is a versatile, all-purpose adhesive remover that tackles a wide range of gooey messes around the house. Powered by citrus cleaning agents, it effectively melts away stickers, wax, markers, gum, and various glue residues without harming surfaces. It’s a household hero for parents, teachers, and collectors alike, leaving a fresh citrus scent and no sticky trace.

Key features that stand out:
– Multi-Purpose: Effortlessly removes stickers, wax, markers, crayons, glue, tar, gum, and more.
– Surface-Safe Formula: Melts grime without harming surfaces, powered by citrus agents.
– Fresh Citrus Scent: Pleasant aroma rather than harsh chemical smells.

Pros:
– Extremely versatile for various sticky messes.
– Safe for most household surfaces.
– Pleasant scent.
Cons:
– May not be strong enough for cured, industrial-strength super glue.

Best for: General household sticky messes, sticker residue, labels, gum, and lighter adhesive clean-up, but not primarily for strong, cured cyanoacrylate super glue.

Expert Opinion: Mighty Melt is fantastic for everyday sticky situations, but if you’re looking for the best solvent to remove super glue (cyanoacrylate), especially hardened, industrial-grade types, you’ll likely need a more specialized debonder. It’s great for other types of “glue,” but not typically for super glue.

9. Super Glue Corp/Pacer TECH SGR Glue Remover Gel, 5g

From the Super Glue brand itself, this SGR Glue Remover Gel is a direct solution for their own adhesives. It’s specifically formulated to de-bond cyanoacrylate super glues, making it an authoritative choice for tackling spills. The gel format offers better control, especially on vertical surfaces, preventing accidental damage to surrounding areas. Its compact size makes it convenient for quick fixes.

Key features that stand out:
– Brand Specific: Formulated by Super Glue Corp for optimal removal of their own adhesives.
– Gel Consistency: Prevents dripping and allows for precise application.
– Targeted Debonder: Specifically designed to dissolve CA glues.

Pros:
– Made by a leading super glue manufacturer.
– Gel form ensures controlled application.
– Compact and easy to store.
Cons:
– Very small quantity, only suitable for minor spills.

Best for: Small, precise super glue clean-ups, especially from Super Glue brand products, where minimal product is needed.

Expert Opinion: When the super glue itself comes from a known brand, using their specific remover, like this gel, can be a highly effective strategy. It’s a strong contender for the best solvent to remove super glue in small, targeted applications.

10. BUFFZIT Car Adhesive Remover – Glue Removal Spray for

BUFFZIT Car Adhesive Remover is a specialized spray designed to tackle tough automotive adhesives. It’s excellent for removing residues from decals, stickers, badges, and tar from car surfaces. The formula is fast-acting and engineered to be gentle on automotive finishes like paint, glass, and chrome, ensuring no damage or discoloration. It leaves a clean, residue-free finish, making it perfect for car detailing.

Key features that stand out:
– Automotive Specific: Formulated to tackle tough adhesives from decals, stickers, and badges on cars.
– Safe on Car Surfaces: Gentle on paint, glass, chrome, and plastic, preventing damage.
– Fast-Acting Formula: Quickly dissolves adhesive residues, making removal efficient.

Pros:
– Very effective on automotive-specific glues and residues.
– Safe for car finishes.
– Easy spray application and residue-free.
Cons:
– Not intended for general super glue (cyanoacrylate) removal.

Best for: Removing specific automotive adhesives, tar, and sticker residue from vehicle exteriors.

Expert Opinion: This is a top-tier product for its intended use on cars, effectively removing specialized automotive glues and residues. However, it is not the best solvent to remove super glue (cyanoacrylate) from non-automotive surfaces.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When choosing the best solvent to remove super glue, it’s clear that specialization matters. Products like Bob Smith Industries UN-CURE, Damn Good Super Glue Remover, Starbond Super Glue Remover (Gel), and Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover (Gel) are explicitly designed for cyanoacrylate adhesives, making them your top choices. The Damn Good Super Glue Remover offers maximum strength for the toughest jobs, while the Starbond and Krazy Fix gels provide superior control and less mess, which is invaluable for delicate surfaces or vertical applications.

If you’re dealing with glue on skin, the gel formulas from Starbond and Krazy Fix are generally safer and easier to manage, but always proceed with caution and spot-test first. For hobbyists, Bob Smith Industries UN-CURE is a tried-and-true favorite.

It’s crucial to note that products like the Tape in Extension Removers, Gtechniq W7, Mighty Melt, and BUFFZIT Car Adhesive Remover are not formulated for cyanoacrylate super glue. They excel in their specific niches – hair adhesives, automotive tar and decals, or general household sticky messes – but will likely be ineffective or even damaging if used for actual super glue. Always read the labels carefully to ensure the solvent matches the adhesive you’re trying to remove. For general super glue spills, stick to the products explicitly labeled for “super glue” or “CA glue.”

Final Verdict

Navigating the world of glue removers can be tricky, but after looking at these options, finding the best solvent to remove super glue boils down to the specific type of glue and surface.

For general, stubborn super glue (cyanoacrylate) removal on various surfaces like metal, glass, or hard plastics, the Damn Good Super Glue Remover is an incredibly powerful and reliable option. It truly lives up to its name for sheer dissolving power.

If you need precision and minimal mess, especially on delicate items or vertical surfaces, the STARBOND Super Glue Remover Gel and Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover Gel are fantastic choices. Their gel consistency gives you excellent control and they are often gentler on surfaces, and Krazy Fix even adds a handy spatula.

For hobbyists and model makers who frequently work with CA glues, Bob Smith Industries BSI-161H UN-CURE is a consistent and effective performer, a staple in many workshops.

Remember to always test any solvent on an inconspicuous area first, especially with the powerful super glue specific removers, as results can vary depending on the material. And if you’re dealing with hair glue, car adhesives, or general sticky labels, the specialized products are best for those jobs, but won’t solve your super glue problem!

FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best solvent to remove super glue from plastic?
A1: For plastic, you need to be very careful as some solvents can melt or damage it. Starbond Super Glue Remover Gel or Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover Gel are good starting points as they offer controlled application and are often milder than pure acetone. Always perform a spot test on an inconspicuous area first.

Q2: Can I use nail polish remover (acetone) to remove super glue?
A2: Yes, nail polish remover containing acetone can dissolve super glue (cyanoacrylate). However, it can also damage or discolor certain plastics, painted surfaces, and fabrics. Products specifically formulated as super glue removers, like Damn Good Super Glue Remover, are often more effective and potentially safer for intended surfaces.

Q3: How do I remove super glue from my skin safely?
A3: To remove super glue from skin, avoid harsh scraping. Instead, try soaking the affected area in warm, soapy water. Gently rub with a pumice stone or a cotton ball soaked in acetone (nail polish remover). Gels like Krazy Fix Super Glue Remover Gel are also designed for skin. Apply a small amount, let it sit, then gently peel or rub away the glue. Always moisturize afterward.

Q4: Are all “glue removers” effective for super glue?
A4: No, definitely not! This is a common misconception. As highlighted in the reviews, products like hair extension removers, tar and glue removers for cars, or general adhesive removers (e.g., Mighty Melt) are formulated for specific types of adhesives. Only products explicitly stating they remove “super glue,” “CA glue,” or “cyanoacrylate” will be effective for super glue. Always look for the best solvent to remove super glue specifically.

Q5: How long should I let a super glue remover sit before wiping?
A5: The dwell time varies by product and the amount/age of the glue. For gel removers like Starbond or Krazy Fix, 10-15 minutes is often recommended. For stronger liquid removers, it might be less. Always follow the specific instructions on the product packaging for the best solvent to remove super glue you are using.

Q6: What precautions should I take when using super glue removers?
A6: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear gloves to protect your skin and safety glasses to protect your eyes. Avoid inhaling fumes. Always do a spot test on an inconspicuous area of the material first to ensure the remover won’t damage or discolor the surface. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Q7: Can I use oil to remove super glue?
A7: Oils (like olive oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly) can sometimes help loosen super glue on skin by working into the pores and creating a slippery barrier. However, they are generally not effective at dissolving dried super glue on hard surfaces like a specialized solvent to remove super glue would be. They work more by lubrication than by chemical dissolution.