A stripped screw is one of the most frustrating DIY problems — the screwdriver slips, the head rounds off, and suddenly the screw won’t move at all. The good news is that there are several easy ways to remove a stripped screw using simple tools you probably already own.

In this guide, I’ll show you the quickest and safest methods for removing stripped screws in wood, metal, furniture, electronics, and appliances.

This guide should be read along with How to Use a Screwdriver Properly.

1. First: Check the Screwdriver You’re Using

Before trying anything else, make sure you’re using the correct type and size.

Most stripped screws happen because of:

• using PH on a PZ screw
• using the wrong size
• using a worn‑out bit

If you’re unsure, see my Phillips vs Pozidriv (UK Guide).

If the bit doesn’t fit tightly, switch to a better one.

2. Method 1 — The Rubber Band Trick (Fast & Easy)

This is the quickest fix and works surprisingly well.

✔ What you need

• A wide rubber band
• Your screwdriver

✔ How to do it

1. Place the rubber band over the stripped screw head.
2. Press the screwdriver firmly into the rubber band.
3. Turn slowly and steadily.

The rubber band fills the damaged grooves and gives extra grip.

3. Method 2 — Use a Larger Screwdriver

If the head is only slightly stripped:

• Switch to a larger PH or PZ screwdriver
• Press down firmly
• Turn slowly

A larger tip often bites into the remaining edges.

4. Method 3 — Tap the Screwdriver with a Hammer

This helps seat the bit deeper into the screw.

✔ How to do it

1. Place the screwdriver in the screw head.
2. Tap the handle lightly with a hammer.
3. Apply firm downward pressure and turn slowly.

This works especially well on wood screws.

5. Method 4 — Use Pliers (If the Head Is Exposed)

If the screw head is sticking out even slightly:

• Grip it with locking pliers or needle‑nose pliers
• Turn slowly
• Rock it back and forth if needed

This is one of the safest and most reliable methods.

6. Method 5 — Cut a New Slot (Flathead Trick)

If the screw head is badly damaged:

✔ What you need

• A hacksaw
• A rotary tool
• Or a small metal file

✔ How to do it

1. Cut a straight slot across the screw head.
2. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove it.

This works well on metal screws and larger wood screws.

7. Method 6 — Use a Screw Extractor (Guaranteed Method)

A screw extractor is designed specifically for stripped screws.

✔ How it works

1. Drill a small pilot hole into the screw head.
2. Insert the extractor.
3. Turn anti‑clockwise.
4. The extractor bites into the metal and pulls the screw out.

Extractors work on:

• wood screws
• metal screws
• machine screws
• bolts

If you do DIY regularly, it’s worth keeping a set in your toolbox.

8. Method 7 — Use a Left‑Handed Drill Bit

Left‑handed drill bits turn in reverse.

As they drill:

• they bite into the screw
• the screw often unscrews itself

This is a brilliant trick for metal screws and bolts.

9. Method 8 — Add Friction (For Electronics)

For tiny screws in laptops, phones, or glasses:

• Use a rubber glove
• Or a piece of latex
• Or a thin elastic band

Place it between the screwdriver and the screw to increase grip.

Pairs well with your Precision Screwdrivers Explained article.

10. Method 9 — Heat the Screw (Metal Only)

If the screw is stuck due to rust or thread‑lock:

• Heat it gently with a soldering iron
• Wait 10–20 seconds
• Try turning again

The heat expands the metal and breaks the bond.

Do not use this method on electronics unless you know what you’re doing.

11. Method 10 — Drill the Screw Out (Last Resort)

If nothing else works:

1. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw shaft.
2. Drill straight down the centre.
3. The head will eventually detach.
4. Remove the remaining shaft with pliers.

This is the final option for badly damaged screws.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using PH on PZ screws
• Using the wrong size bit
• Turning too fast
• Not applying enough downward pressure
• Using cheap, worn‑out bits
• Forcing the screw (makes it worse)

Related Guides

• How to Use a Screwdriver Properly
• How to Choose the Right Screwdriver
• Screwdriver Types and Sizes Explained
• Precision Screwdrivers Explained

Final Thoughts

A stripped screw isn’t the end of the world — you just need the right technique. Start with the simple methods like the rubber band trick or a larger screwdriver, and work your way up to extractors or drilling only if needed. With the right approach, even the most stubborn screw will come out.