Lost your screwdriver but need to get a screw out? Don’t panic — everyday household items can often do the trick. These tips focus on common screw types and how to tackle them safely and effectively.
🔧 Before You Start: Quick Safety Tips
- Identify the type of screw (Phillips, flathead, tiny electronics screw) — matching your tool matters.
- Always turn screws counter-clockwise to loosen.
- Apply steady pressure and work slowly to avoid stripping or damage.
🪙 1. Use a Coin
A thick coin can slot into shallow grooves and twist the screw out. Works best on slightly loose screws with wider slots.
🔪 2. Butter Knife Trick
A strong, sturdy butter knife can act as a makeshift flat driver — insert the tip into the slot and twist.
🪓 3. Cut a New Slot (Hacksaw)
If the original groove is worn, score a new slot with a hacksaw blade so you can turn it with another tool.
🪥 4. Melt & Mould a Toothbrush
Heat the end of a plastic toothbrush and press into the screw head. Once cool, the mould can act as a custom grip.
💿 5. Use an Old CD
The edge of a CD can sometimes grip a screw enough to twist it — just be careful, CDs crack easily.
🔧 6. Grip With Pliers
If the head sticks out, pliers give excellent leverage. Clamp and turn counter-clockwise.
💅 7. Your Thumbnail
For very loose screws, a strong thumbnail can sometimes push and twist them out.
💳 8. Plastic Card Edge
Old credit or loyalty cards can wedge into flat slots to twist a screw, though they can break if put under strain.
🥫 9. Can Tab Hack
The inner edge of a pull tab from a drink can can act like a slim driver for shallow screw slots.
🔪 10. Knife Tip for Tiny Screws
A sharp craft or pocket knife can fit miniature slots — perfect for electronics or precision screws.
💅 11. Metal Nail File
The tapered tip of a nail file can work like a small screwdriver in tiny screw heads.
✂️ 12. Small Scissors
Narrow scissor tips can wedge into a groove and twist little screws free.
🔧 13. Tweezers
Pointed tweezers can either grip the screw head or sit in the groove for twisting, especially for tiny screws.
🪩 14. Clean Out Painted or Blocked Grooves
If paint or debris is blocking the slot, use a pin or blade to clear it before trying any method.
🛑 15. When to Stop and Get Tools
Improvised tools are fine for quick fixes — but if a screw’s supporting weight, inside electronics, stubbornly tight, or head is deforming, grab a proper screwdriver or bit set to avoid damage.
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According to experts from the https://www.bheta.co.uk/ ,research is key when planning any DIY application.