Article
Save clothing, furniture, and other valuable items by learning how to remove glue from leather. Don’t throw them away; read this!
We have a wide variety of super glues for nearly any purpose.
Don’t let a bit of glue on a leather surface ruin your day! Become a pro on how to remove glue from leather with our tried and true recommendations below.
It’s disheartening to discover a drop or smear of adhesive on an item made of leather. Leather clothing and furniture is generally on the more expensive side and can be delicate to clean. So, if this should happen to you, you will appreciate the information below. Most types of glue (including super glue) can be removed from leather surfaces with the right techniques and a bit of patience.
Let’s begin with the more gentle method first. Here are the items you will need for the job:
- cotton swabs
- a sponge
- terry cloth or similar soft cloth
- warm soapy water
- paper towels
- a putty knife or scraper
- acetone
- Using a scraper or putty knife, gently remove as much of the dried glue as possible.
- Dip your sponge into the warm soapy water and apply it to the area.
- Use a clean cloth to wipe the area—carefully, in a circular motion—and remove the glue residue.
If the above method is not successful, try using acetone to loosen the glue. Always test a small amount of acetone on an inconspicuous area of the leather to make sure it will not damage the surface.
- Use a cotton swab to apply acetone to the glue and gently work it back and forth.
- Continue to apply acetone until the glue begins to soften.
- Using the scraper, remove the softened glue.
- Wipe away the acetone and glue residue with a clean cloth.
- Use a sponge and soapy water to wash the area.
- Wipe the item dry and check for any remaining glue. Repeat the above steps if necessary.
Do you have scratches in your leather from cleaning or just wear and tear? Try using a moisturizing leather conditioner to rehydrate the leather and minimize imperfections.
If the item in question is suede or a similar brushed leather surface, some extra steps are necessary:
- Sprinkle some talcum powder onto the glue and work it in to the area with a damp cloth. This should make the glue clump up.
- Dab some acetone onto the glue with a cotton ball. Make sure to test for compatibility first, as mentioned above.
- Once the acetone has softened the glue, scrape it away with a dull knife, nail file, or even sandpaper if that works better. The glue will likely crumble away gradually.
- Continue the process until the area is clean.
If you can avoid getting glue on leather at all, so much the better. Let us help!
LePage Super Glue Gel Control is famous for pinpoint placement without drips or spills. The thicker consistency of Gel Control makes dripping very unlikely, and the patented side-squeeze applicator is very precise. You’ll be able to place a drop exactly where you want it.
This formula also offers other advantages including superior hold, a faster set time, and the ability to bond to most porous and non-porous surfaces. It may well become your preferred super glue!