Removing Superglue from Polyester

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated August 7, 2023)

If you have children around your home, or are interested in certain types of hobbies, then chances are you have come into contact with superglue stains. In addition, considering how common polyester is in clothing today, it only stands to reason that you may have come into contact with superglue stains on your polyester-based clothing. Knowing how to remove superglue from polyester can help greatly increase the longevity and usefulness of those garments.

  • Glass cleaner. Glass cleaners, such as Windex, can help remove several different kinds of stains—and not just on glass. Spray enough of the cleaner onto the affected area of the garment to thoroughly saturate the garment. Dab, or blot the wet area using a paper towel of clean rag until the superglue has come away. Do not rub, or scrub, as this could work the superglue further into the material, or even spread it out further.
  • Methanol. Methanol (methyl alcohol or wood alcohol) is another great way to remove superglue stains from polyester. In this case, soak a small area of a clean rag in some of the wood alcohol and then lightly rub the stain. Continue doing this until the stain has been removed, though be careful that you don't rub too hard.
  • Sanding. Surprisingly, sanding a superglue stain can help you remove it. Use a fine grit sandpaper or emery board and lightly press and rub the rough side against the stain. Rub softly against the stain, and continue to rub until the garment is no longer stiff. Once that is completed, wash the garment as normal, your stain should now be gone.
  • Cut the cloth. Unarguably the most drastic method available, cutting will definitely remove the stain though at a cost to the garment. Considering how drastic this method is though, you should only use it if the stain is in an area that will not be easily noticed, or on clothing that is not going to be used very often.
  • Fingernail polish remover. The acetone in the fingernail polish will definitely break down and remove the superglue stain that has been set into the fabric. However, there is a slight drawback to this method—the acetone could be extremely harmful to the fabric. Test the acetone on a similar piece of cloth or in a location that will not be easily seen. As long as there are no new holes after finishing, go ahead and use it.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

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