How to Remove Glue from Clothes: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Glue Out of Fabric

Accidentally getting glue on your clothes can be frustrating, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to ruin your favorite garments. Whether you’re dealing with a craft mishap or a spill during home repairs, you can safely remove glue from fabric without causing damage. In this guide, we’ll show you how to remove glue from clothes effectively, using both DIY methods and fabric-safe adhesive removers.

What You Need to Know About Glue on Clothes

Before diving into how to get glue out of clothes, it’s essential to understand the type of glue you’re dealing with. Different adhesives require different removal techniques. Common types of glue you might encounter on clothing include:

• Craft Glue (PVA glue, white glue, or Elmer’s glue)
• Super Glue (cyanoacrylate)
• Hot Glue
• Fabric Glue
• Gorilla Glue
• Nail Glue

Each of these glues has its characteristics and may require slightly different removal methods. The quicker you act, the better your chances of getting the glue off the fabric without damaging it.

How to Remove Glue from Clothes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to remove glue from clothes and fabric without damaging the material.

1. How to Remove Craft Glue from Fabric

Craft glue, such as PVA or white glue, is relatively easy to remove when fresh. Here’s how to get the glue off the fabric:

• Step 1: Gently scrape off any excess glue using a butter knife or spoon.
• Step 2: Rinse the fabric under cold water. Do not use hot water, as it may set the glue.
• Step 3: Soak the stained area in vinegar or rubbing alcohol for about 15 minutes. Both substances help dissolve the glue.
• Step 4: Use a soft brush (such as an old toothbrush) to gently scrub the area.
• Step 5: Wash the garment in cold water with a gentle detergent.

2. How to Get Super Glue Off Fabric

Superglue can be a bit trickier to remove from clothing, but it’s certainly possible with the right techniques. Here’s how to remove glue from fabric without damaging it:

• Step 1: Carefully scrape off any dried glue using a plastic knife or your fingernail.
• Step 2: Soak the affected area in acetone (nail polish remover). Be sure to test this on an inconspicuous area first to avoid damaging the fabric.
• Step 3: Once the glue has softened, gently rub the area with a cloth or soft brush.
• Step 4: Wash the garment with cold water to remove any leftover residue.

3. How to Remove Hot Glue from Fabric

Hot glue can create a hard, crusty spot on your clothes, but with a little patience, it can be removed.

• Step 1: Let the hot glue cool down. Once it has hardened, you can scrape off the excess glue with a butter knife.
• Step 2: If there’s still residue left, apply a bit of rubbing alcohol or acetone (if fabric-safe) to dissolve it.
• Step 3: Gently scrub the fabric with a toothbrush to lift any remaining glue.
• Step 4: Wash the fabric with a gentle detergent to clean away any remaining glue traces.

4. How to Remove Fabric Glue from Clothes

Fabric glue is designed to be strong, so it may require some additional steps to remove. Here’s how to take fabric glue out of clothes:

• Step 1: Gently scrape off as much glue as possible.
• Step 2: Soak the stained area in a mixture of warm water and vinegar for 30 minutes.
• Step 3: If the glue is still stuck, apply a fabric-safe adhesive remover.
• Step 4: After the glue has loosened, wash the fabric to remove any traces of adhesive.

5. How to Get Gorilla Glue Off Clothing

Gorilla glue is one of the toughest adhesives to remove, but don’t worry – it can be done:

• Step 1: As soon as possible, try to scrape off any excess glue. Do not wait for it to harden.
• Step 2: Apply acetone (nail polish remover) to a cloth and gently blot the area.
• Step 3: Once the glue starts to break down, rub it gently with a toothbrush or cloth.
• Step 4: Wash the item with cold water to remove any traces of the glue.

6. How to Remove Dried Glue from Clothes

If you’re dealing with dried glue, it’s important to be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric. Here’s how to remove dried glue from fabric:

• Step 1: Carefully scrape off any dried glue.
• Step 2: Soak the fabric in a solution of vinegar and water or rubbing alcohol for 15-20 minutes.
• Step 3: Gently scrub the area with a soft brush to lift the dried glue.
• Step 4: Wash the clothing to ensure the glue is fully removed.

How to Remove Glue from Clothes: Tips for Success

• Test First: Always test any solution on a hidden area of the fabric to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the material.
• Act Quickly: The sooner you act, the better the chance of successfully removing glue from the fabric.
• Be Gentle: Avoid using harsh scrubbing or scraping techniques, especially on delicate fabrics like silk or wool.
• Use Fabric-Safe Products: Choose products that are gentle on your fabrics to avoid any potential damage.

Whether it’s craft glue, super glue, or fabric glue, getting glue out of clothes doesn’t have to be a difficult or stressful task. By acting quickly and following the right steps, you can restore your clothing to its former glory. With the right adhesive removers and techniques, you can ensure your garments remain in top condition, free from glue stains.