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:
- Place a rubber band over the screw head.
- Press your screwdriver firmly into the rubber.
- 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:
- Clamp locking pliers (Vise-Grips) onto the screw head.
- 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:
- Drill a small pilot hole into the screw.
- Insert a screw extractor bit and turn counterclockwise.
- 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:
- Place your screwdriver into the stripped screw.
- Tap lightly with a hammer to push it deeper.
- 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! 🔧✨✨
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