How to Remove Polyurethane Adhesive

Polyurethane glue, widely used in home improvement and craft projects, sets quickly and is strong and waterproof. While these are useful qualities, they mean that getting the glue in the wrong place can prove difficult to fix. You may be able to use a scraper to clean spilled glue from some flat surfaces, but if the spill caused two items to bond together--for example, a finger and an object--chemicals and patience may be your only option.

Acetone
Latex gloves
Cotton buds or balls
Plastic scraper
Moisturizer

Instructions

- 1
  Ventilate the area well to avoid inhalation of acetone fumes. If possible, perform these steps outdoors.
- 2
  Put on latex gloves to protect your skin from the drying effects of the acetone.
- 3
  Soak a cotton bud or ball--depending on the size of area to be treated--in acetone. Purchase acetone from the drugstore in the form of nail polish remover. Acetone is highly inflammable and should not be used near open flames or lit cigarettes.
- 4
  Apply acetone to the appropriate area and allow it to soak for 10 minutes. Scrape away the unwanted glue, using the plastic scraper. In the case of fingers, try to work acetone into the joint so it loosens gradually. In either case, if any glue remains, apply more acetone and leave for 10 more minutes.
- 5
  Wash and moisturize any areas of skin exposed to acetone.

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