How to Dislodge a Lightbulb

Never remove a lightbulb when it's lit.

Dislodging a lightbulb that is stuck in the socket can be dangerous regardless of whether the bulb has broken, though dealing with a broken bulb requires additional care. Because of the risks involved it's crucial to take basic precautions that will keep you safe from possible electrical shock and broken glass, and reduce the risk of fire. Still, it's not complicated to safely dislodge a lightbulb.

Things You'll Need

• Work gloves
• Duct tape

Instructions

1. Cut the power source before attempting to remove the bulb so you don't get shocked. If the bulb is stuck in a lamp, turn it off and unplug it. If the bulb is in a ceiling fixture or other place that cannot be unplugged, cut the power by shutting off the circuit breaker that feeds electricity to the socket. Let the bulb cool.

2. Put on thick leather or garden gloves. These will help protect your hands from heat and possible broken glass.

3. Unscrew the bulb. If it feels like it will break rather than turn, make a loop out of duct tape. Construct the loop so its circumference measures 24 inches.

4. Place the loop around the bulb with the sticky side of the tape flat against the bulb. Pinch the loop closed so that the tape is firmly stuck around the bulb and you have one tape handle on each side of the bulb.

5. Hold one tape handle in each hand and gently unscrew the bulb.

Tips & Warnings

• If the bulb breaks, press the thin end of an uncooked potato into the socket and unscrew the screw cap. Carefully clean up and remove all broken glass.

• Before removing any bulb or broken bulb, make absolutely sure you have cut the power.

References

• HomeTips: How to Turn off the Power to Your House
• This Old House: Removing a Stuck Light Bulb
• Real Simple: How to: Remove a Stuck Light Bulb