How Can I Remove Hot Glue From Plastic?

Hot glue can quickly become a mess.

Hot glue can be a handy adhesive for home repair, crafts and many other applications, but it can become quite a problem when applied to a surface in error. When mistakenly applied to non-porous surfaces like plastic, the process of removal is easier than the process for removing the glue from porous surfaces, like fabrics. Instead of throwing out items that have spots of melted hot glue, try removing the glue properly first.

Things You'll Need

• Isopropyl alcohol
• Cotton swabs
• Tweezers

Instructions

1. Allow the hot glue to dry thoroughly on the plastic surface before trying to remove it.

2. Dip a cotton swab into some isopropyl alcohol and rub it onto the surface of the plastic, over and around the glue. Allow the alcohol to saturate the glue. Dip the swab and apply it as many times as needed to cover the whole area.

3. Pry the spot of glue off with tweezers. To do this, work one point of the tweezers under the edge of the spot and squeeze the tips together to grab the glue layer and pull gently to peel it off.

4. Dip a clean cotton swab into the alcohol and rub it over the surface to remove any small pieces or residue left from the glue.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to remove glue when it is still liquid, as it will cause serious burns.

References

• Absolute Astronomy: Rubbing alcohol