Removing superglue from any stainless steel refrigerator is such a tough challenge. I cannot explain in words how much frustration I felt when I did it for the first time. That is the reason I have created this guide: to help you out with the right techniques and precautions.
Superglue is something that can easily damage the surface. I’ll explain to you some hacks by which you can loosen the bonds of this glue without creating any harm to your refrigerator surface. Let’s move on.
The Challenge of Super Glue on Stainless Steel
- Superglue forms exceptionally strong bonds on various metal surfaces, including stainless steel.
- You might think of using abrasive cleaning, but let me tell you, it can very easily damage stainless steel.
- Removing superglue from such services demands special techniques and knowledge.
- There can be some unwanted stains and residues after the removal, which make the surface look ugly.
Safety Precautions for Super Glue Removal
Ventilation is a must in the bare protective gloves because you don’t want your skin to come in contact with that superglue because you already know what will happen after that, right? Even work in a well-lit area.
Use all precautions of the world to avoid potential accidents when you are carrying forward this task.
Essential Tools for Removing Super Glue
Nail polish remover, acetone, olive oil, acero propyl alcohol, baking soda, vegetable oil, plastic scraper, soft cloths, putty knife, paper towel, water spray bottle, mild dish soap and a microfiber cloth.
Thank god the list has finished. Now, you need that large amount of supplies to carry this process forward. What were you feeling? Is it a 5 minute process? Not at all.
Testing Super Glue Removal Methods
Before you move ahead to the main process of treating the entire affected area, you can try yourself on a small-scale test.
Apply a bit of glue on some stainless steel surface that is of no use, and then you can sit behind it and wait for the glue to settle. After that, whatever amount you apply, just check out whether it is creating any mass damage or even discolouration to the surface.
If there are some negative effects of your test, you need to use your brain and ensure you are not using the same techniques on the main surface to work on.
Non-Abrasive Techniques for Super Glue Removal
- Soaking: You can soften the super glue in less time by placing a cloth soaked in warm and soapy water and then placing that cloth over that area. If there are less stubborn glue stains, it will take no time to remove them.
- Oil-based solvents: I myself am a big fan of olive oil for removing super glue as, in my case, the super glue had been set for a pretty long time, and the stains were literally eye-hurting. But when I used olive oil, I was able to see the magic happening. It broke down the adhesive properties of the glue, and this way, there was minimum damage to the stainless steel surface.
- Vinegar solution: Just mix 50% water and 50% vinegar and soak a cloth in that solution for 10 minutes. Then, you can use that wet cloth to remove the super glue. The science here is that vinegar contains acetic acid, which helps dissolve the glue over time.
Now, if the direct rubbing is not helping you out, you can actually soak that cloth and place it on top of the affected surface overnight. In the morning, you can wake up and use a soft bristle brush to remove the stain.
Using Acetone to Dissolve Super Glue
Acetone is one of the most powerful solvents commonly used, even on industrial levels, to dissolve superglue. A small amount of it on a soft cloth is the first step, and then you just need to gently rub it on the affected area.
It will take a bit of time for the acetone to penetrate the superglue. My testing took seven minutes. You can further use a soft plastic scraper to scrape away the softened adhesive. A putty knife can also do the job.
You can keep on repeating this process until the entire surface is cleaned. Never expose acetone for a longer period of time, and make sure there’s adequate ventilation because that smell can actually prove to be harmful to you.
It does have some health risks. Many studies have explained that.
Loosening Super Glue Bonds with Olive Oil
The process is very simple, which starts with applying a bit of olive oil directly on the superglue residue and allowing it to penetrate for three to five hours.
In my case, I left it there overnight. Then, in the morning, I used a super soft cloth to rub the affected area in circular motions. You can continue the process till you feel like every single bit of glue is loosened and dissolved.
You can buy away the residue as well as the extra olive oil with a damp cloth, and when you carry this process for a few minutes, all you get is an entirely clean stainless steel surface at the end.
You can even wash the surface with plain water or dish soap solution to make sure there is absolutely nothing left behind.
FAQS
Can I use acetone to remove superglue from my stainless steel refrigerator?
Well, yes, it’s a decent idea to use acetone because it has great properties that help dissolve superglue. Just make sure that you are not damaging the stainless steel surface by rubbing it too harshly.
Will olive oil work to remove superglue residue from stainless steel?
Absolutely, yes, olive oil is my favourite option for removing the stainless steel glue bonds. You just need to generously apply a bit of it and then rub it using a soft cloth.
Is it safe to use abrasive materials or stainless steel to remove superglue?
Well, I never recommend you use abrasive materials because they will scratch the stainless steel surface.
How long should I soak a cloth in vinegar solution to remove super glue from the stainless steel?
Well, it generally takes three to five hours, and in certain cases, if you feel like you have a lot of work to do with the glue, then keep it soaked overnight.
Can I use a plastic scraper to remove stubborn superglue from my stainless steel refrigerator?
Obviously, you can use it, but I don’t recommend a very hard plastic scraper because that will again end up damaging the surface of your refrigerator. Be careful not to apply extra pressure while scratching the surface.
