How To Remove Hot Glue From Countertops

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A must-have tool every crafter has in their arsenal is the hot glue gun. It is one of those handy items that not only helps with fun projects but can also fix simple issues around your home like preventing scratches on your coffee table. If you're an avid glue gun user, you know it can easily turn into a messy task, leaving trails or globs of dried glue in its wake. No biggie because accidents happen. Instead of fretting, discover how to remove hot glue from your countertops and the best preventative measures before you start your next project.

You may be tempted to scratch glue off with your fingernails or a kitchen scraper, but do not do this. Too much force from scraping can cause scratches and other damages to your hard surfaces. Instead, you can remove it by following three simple steps. First, let the glue dry completely. While drying, head over to your medicine cabinet and grab a cotton swab and a bottle of acetone or rubbing alcohol. If you have wood counters, the alcohol may stain or ruin the wood varnish, so be wary if you plan on using this method. After the glue is dried, coat the swab in rubbing alcohol and gently rub at the edges of the dried glue. It should peel off easily after a few minutes. For the best results, clean your counters with a natural cleaning solution after glue removal.

How to prevent hot glue messes on counters

Getting hot glue on your countertops doesn't have to happen at all. If you know how to properly care for your hot glue gun as well as place a protective mat or grease-proof paper down, those dried glue spots won't make a home on your hard surfaces. It's important to keep your glue gun clean and ready. This helps prevent breakage, and helps keep glue from spilling onto counters, tables, and floors. After use, make sure to put it back in its place whether that is a crafting kit or drawer. Not only will it be ready for next time, but you're preventing glue spills on surfaces before they can happen.

Before grabbing your glue gun and getting your project rolling, place a heat-resistant protective mat down to further protect against unwanted spills and stains. When looking for a mat, use materials that don't stick to the glue, like silicone, metal, and vinyl. If you are a craft-lover who uses stamps, paints, and hot glue, a great mat choice for you is the Surebonder Store silicone pad. This mat is lightweight and easy to roll up, making it the perfect, functional addition to your crafting supplies. 

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