How to Remove Hollow Wall Anchors

Removing a hollow wall anchor depends on what type of anchor. Hollow wall anchors are either plastic expansion anchors or toggle anchors. Plastic anchors will pull out of the drywall in most instances without damaging the wall any more. Toggle anchors, on the other hand, spread out behind the wall. Removing this type of anchor will leave the toggle portion harmlessly inside the wall cavity.

Things You'll Need

• Wood screw
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Pliers

Instructions

Remove Plastic Wall Anchor

1. Remove the screw in the center of the plastic wall anchor with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

2. Insert a wood screw that is slightly larger in diameter than the original. Thread the wood screw into the plastic wall anchor two full turns.

3. Grab the head of the wood screw with a pair of pliers and pull the plastic wall anchor out of the wall. If necessary, wiggle the anchor back and forth while pulling to remove the anchor from the wall.

Remove Toggle Wall Anchor

1. Grab the head of the anchor screw and pull the toggle tight against the other side of the wall. The toggle will be slightly loose when you remove the object that was hanging on it. The pulling action will seat the toggle wings on the other side of the wall.

2. Turn the toggle screw counterclockwise with your fingers while keeping pressure on the toggle wings. Maintain the pressure by continuing to pull the screw away from the wall as you turn the screw.

3. Continue turning the screw until it comes out of the toggle wings. The toggle will fall harmlessly inside the wall cavity.

References

• Natural Handyman: Working With Wall Anchors