DIYer attempting to remove a stripped screw using a rubber band and screwdriver, with pliers, a drill, and WD-40 on a wooden workbench.

How to Remove a Stripped Screw (Without Losing Your Sanity)

How to Remove a Stripped Screw (9 Easy DIY Fixes That Work!)


You’re cruising through a DIY project, feeling like a pro, when—boom!—your screwdriver spins uselessly in a screw that refuses to budge. It’s stripped. It’s stuck. And it’s ruining your day.

Before you start yelling at inanimate objects, try these foolproof ways to remove a stripped screw without losing your sanity.


1. Remove a Stripped Screw with a Rubber Band

Why a Rubber Band Can Help Get a Stripped Screw Out

A rubber band adds extra grip, helping your screwdriver catch onto the stripped screw.

How to Use a Rubber Band to Remove a Stubborn Screw:

  1. Place a rubber band over the screw head.
  2. Press your screwdriver firmly into the rubber.
  3. Turn slowly and steadily to loosen the screw.

Bonus Perk:

It’s a cheap and easy fix using something you probably have lying around.

Imagine This: You grab a rubber band from your junk drawer, try it as a last-ditch effort, and—bam!—the screw actually turns. You feel like a genius.


2. Use a Different Screwdriver to Remove a Stripped Screw

Why Switching Screwdrivers Can Help Remove a Stripped Screw

A flat-head screwdriver can sometimes grip better than a Phillips when the screw is stripped.

How to Do It:

  • Choose a flat-head screwdriver slightly wider than the screw slot.
  • Press down firmly and turn slowly to avoid further stripping.

Bonus Perk:

No fancy tools required—just use what you already own.

Imagine This: You swap screwdrivers, press down, and suddenly—success! You knew that extra screwdriver set would come in handy.


3. Remove a Stuck Stripped Screw Using Pliers

Why Pliers Are a Great Tool to Get Out a Stripped Screw

If the screw is slightly raised, pliers can grab it and twist it out.

How to Remove a Stripped Screw with Pliers:

  1. Clamp locking pliers (Vise-Grips) onto the screw head.
  2. Twist counterclockwise while maintaining a tight grip.

Bonus Perk:

This method works when other hacks fail—especially on big, stubborn screws.

Imagine This: You clamp the pliers, grit your teeth, and twist. It resists for a second… then finally loosens! Sweet victory.


4. Drill a New Groove to Remove a Stripped Screw

How Drilling a New Slot Helps Remove a Stripped Screw

Drilling a new slot into the screw gives your screwdriver a fresh grip.

How to Do It:

  • Use a metal drill bit that’s slightly smaller than the screw head.
  • Drill a shallow, straight slot into the screw.
  • Insert a flat-head screwdriver and turn.

Bonus Perk:

You get to use power tools, which makes you feel like a pro.

Imagine This: You drill a perfect little groove, insert your screwdriver, and twist. It moves! You’re basically a hardware ninja.


5. Apply Heat to Loosen a Stripped Screw

How Heat Can Help Remove a Stubborn Screw

Heat expands the metal, making the screw easier to remove.

How to Do It:

  • Use a lighter or soldering iron to heat the screw for 30 seconds.
  • Let it cool slightly, then try turning it out.

Bonus Perk:

It’s perfect for metal screws stuck in metal parts, like furniture or appliances.

Imagine This: You warm up the screw, wait a moment, and then—boom! It twists right out. Science for the win.


6. Remove a Stripped Screw with a Screw Extractor

Why a Screw Extractor is the Best Tool for Stripped Screws

A screw extractor is made for this exact problem—it digs into the stripped screw for better removal.

How to Use a Screw Extractor to Remove a Stripped Screw:

  1. Drill a small pilot hole into the screw.
  2. Insert a screw extractor bit and turn counterclockwise.
  3. Watch the screw magically loosen!

Bonus Perk:

This tool works when nothing else does.

Imagine This: You pull out your screw extractor, do the thing, and the screw finally surrenders. Time for a victory dance.


7. Tap It with a Hammer to Remove a Stubborn Screw

How a Hammer Can Help You Remove a Stuck Screw

A few light taps can force the screwdriver into the screw, creating more grip.

How to Use a Hammer to Remove a Stripped Screw:

  1. Place your screwdriver into the stripped screw.
  2. Tap lightly with a hammer to push it deeper.
  3. Try turning it again.

Bonus Perk:

Who doesn’t love an excuse to hit things with a hammer?

Imagine This: You give the screwdriver a few satisfying taps, twist, and suddenly—YES! The screw moves!


8. Cut a New Slot with a Dremel to Remove a Stripped Screw

How a Dremel Can Help Remove a Stubborn Screw

A Dremel cutting tool can create a new slot for better grip.

How to Cut a New Slot to Remove a Stripped Screw:

  • Attach a cutting disc to your Dremel.
  • Cut a straight slot into the screw head.
  • Use a flat-head screwdriver to turn it out.

Bonus Perk:

Perfect excuse to use power tools again.

Imagine This: Sparks fly (safely), and your new slot works like magic. The screw is out, and you feel unstoppable.


9. Use WD-40 to Loosen a Stuck Stripped Screw

Why WD-40 Works for Removing Stripped Screws

WD-40 penetrates tight spaces, making the screw easier to turn.

How to Use WD-40 to Remove a Stripped Screw:

  • Spray WD-40 around the screw.
  • Wait a few minutes.
  • Try again with pliers or a screwdriver.

Bonus Perk:

WD-40 is basically magic in a can.

Imagine This: You spray, wait a minute, and suddenly, the screw twists out like butter. WD-40 is officially your new best friend.


Final Thoughts

A stripped screw doesn’t have to ruin your day! Try these nine easy ways to remove a stuck screw, and next time? Use the right screwdriver before it gets stripped.

Got another trick that’s saved you from screw-induced rage? Drop it in the comments! 🔧✨✨

This website contains affiliate links. Some products may be provided by brands for testing purposes. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Additionally, some content on this website was created with the help of AI.


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