How to Use a Suction Cup

Suction cups are commonly used, in modern times, to hang decorative or practical items from windows and other hard, smooth surfaces. Other uses include securing bathmats in the bath and shampoo holders in the shower. If you are using a suction cup for the first time or you are having trouble with a new suction cup, there are some tips that may help you. Using a suction cup is not difficult; however there are a few things you can do to help the cup adhere better and longer to almost any hard surface.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Clean the surface you wish to apply the suction cup to. It won't adhere well to a dirty surface.

2. Make sure the suction cup itself is clean and free of any debris.

3. Moisten the inner rim of the suction cup. You can do this by wetting your finger under running water and rubbing it lightly it beneath the suction cup rim; don't get it too wet. This moisture helps the suction cup adhere more readily to a surface.

4. Press the suction cup onto the window or other smooth surface you want it to attach to. Make sure you press it down all the way against the surface.

5. Release the suction cup slowly. This creates a vacuum effect inside the suction cup, allowing it to adhere. If it shows signs of releasing its grip, press it to the surface again until it stays fast. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it is holding tightly.

Tips & Warnings

• If a suction cup seems to be losing its seal frequently, it may just need a good cleaning. You can wash suction cups in warm soapy water.
• Temperature and humidity variations may make a suction cup lose its grip. Don't use suction cups to hang heavy, dangerous or breakable items.

References

• Tips For Using Suction Cups
• More About Suction Cups