How to Remove Staples from Furniture

Removing staples from furniture can be a daunting task, especially if you want to preserve the integrity of the material underneath.

Whether you’re looking to refinish an old piece or simply want to ensure a smooth surface for a new upholstery job, understanding the right techniques and tools can make the process much easier. In this guide, we will walk you through the various methods for how to remove staples from furniture, ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Why Staples Are Used in Furniture

Staples are a popular choice in furniture construction and upholstery due to their strength and efficiency. They provide a secure hold for fabrics, ensuring that upholstery remains tight and well-fitted over time. In addition, staples are easy to apply using staple guns, allowing for quick assembly and repairs.

Their low cost makes them an economical option compared to other fastening methods, such as nails or screws. Furthermore, staples can be used in various materials, including wood and upholstery foam, making them versatile for a range of furniture styles and designs. Overall, staples facilitate the creation of durable and aesthetically pleasing furniture pieces.

Reasons for Removing Staples

There are several compelling reasons to remove staples from furniture. First and foremost, if you’re planning to reupholster a piece, removing old staples is essential to ensure that the new fabric adheres properly and looks seamless.

Additionally, staples can cause damage to the underlying material over time, creating unsightly holes or tears that may compromise the furniture’s structural integrity. Removing staples also allows for refinishing or restoring old furniture, enabling you to update its appearance and prolong its lifespan.

10 Methods How to Remove Staples from Furniture

1. Using a Staple Remover Tool

One of the most straightforward and efficient methods for removing staples from furniture is by using a staple remover tool. This tool is specifically designed for the task and makes the process much easier.

The tool typically has a flat, forked end that slides under the staple, allowing you to gently pry it out. Start by positioning the flat end of the tool under the staple, ensuring that you don’t press too hard, as this could damage the fabric or the wood beneath. Once the tool is in place, apply gentle upward pressure to lift the staple.

2. Using Needle-Nose Pliers

Needle-nose pliers are a versatile tool that can be used for many tasks, including staple removal.

Their long, slender tips allow for precise control, making them ideal for removing staples from tight or awkward spaces on furniture. Begin by gripping the staple with the tips of the pliers, making sure to get a firm hold.

Once the staple is secure, slowly pull it out, applying steady, even pressure. If the staple is deeply embedded or stubborn, you may need to twist the pliers slightly to loosen it. Be careful not to pull too hard or fast, as this could break the staple or damage the surrounding material.

3. Using a Flathead Screwdriver and Pliers

If you don’t have a staple remover tool, a flathead screwdriver combined with a pair of pliers can be an effective alternative. The flathead screwdriver is used to lift the staple slightly, making it easier to grab with the pliers. Begin by positioning the flathead screwdriver under the staple, pressing gently until the staple begins to lift. Be careful not to press too hard, as this could damage the fabric or the wood. Once the staple is lifted, use the pliers to grip it firmly and pull it out.

4. Using a Tack Puller

A tack puller is another specialized tool that can be very effective for removing staples from furniture. It is designed with a curved, forked end that allows you to easily pry up staples without damaging the underlying material.

To use a tack puller, insert the forked end under the staple and gently push down on the handle. This will lift the staple, allowing you to pull it out. If the staple is stubborn, you may need to rock the tool back and forth to loosen it. The tack puller is particularly useful for removing large, heavy-duty staples, as its design provides excellent leverage. Like the staple remover tool, it minimizes the risk of damage, making it a good choice for delicate or valuable furniture.

5. Using a Utility Knife

In some cases, a utility knife can be an effective tool for removing staples, particularly if the staples are deeply embedded or difficult to access. This method requires a steady hand and careful control to avoid damaging the furniture.

Start by carefully inserting the blade of the utility knife under the staple, making sure to keep the blade as flat as possible to avoid cutting into the wood or fabric. Gently lift the staple with the knife, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Once the staple is lifted, you can use a pair of pliers to pull it out completely.

6. Using a Pry Bar

A small pry bar can be an effective tool for removing larger or more stubborn staples from furniture. The flat, angled end of the pry bar provides excellent leverage, allowing you to easily lift staples without damaging the furniture.

Begin by positioning the flat end of the pry bar under the staple, making sure to keep it as flat as possible to avoid damaging the wood or fabric. Gently apply upward pressure to lift the staple, using the leverage provided by the pry bar to make the task easier. If the staple is particularly stubborn, you may need to rock the pry bar back and forth slightly to loosen it. This method is particularly effective for removing heavy-duty staples or staples that are deeply embedded in the wood.

7. Using a Hammer and Chisel

For very stubborn or deeply embedded staples, a hammer and chisel can be an effective method of removal. This method requires a steady hand and careful control to avoid damaging the furniture, but it can be very effective for removing staples that other tools can’t budge.

Start by positioning the chisel under the staple, making sure that the flat side of the chisel is facing the wood to avoid gouging it. Gently tap the end of the chisel with a hammer, applying just enough force to lift the staple slightly. Once the staple is lifted, you can use a pair of pliers to pull it out completely.

8. Using an Electric Staple Remover

An electric staple remover is a more advanced tool that can make the task of removing staples from furniture much easier and faster. This tool uses a motorized mechanism to automatically remove staples, reducing the amount of manual effort required. To use an electric staple remover, simply position the tool over the staple and press the trigger.

The tool will automatically lift the staple, allowing you to easily pull it out. This method is particularly useful for large-scale projects or for removing a large number of staples, as it significantly reduces the amount of time and effort required. However, it is important to use the tool carefully to avoid damaging the furniture, as the motorized mechanism can apply a significant amount of force.

9. Soaking the Area with Water

In some cases, soaking the area around the staples with water can make them easier to remove. This method is particularly useful for removing staples from upholstered furniture, as the water can soften the fabric and the wood, making it easier to lift the staples.

To use this method, simply apply a small amount of water to the area around the staple using a sponge or cloth. Allow the water to soak in for a few minutes, then use a staple remover tool, flathead screwdriver, or pliers to gently lift the staple. Be careful not to use too much water, as this could damage the wood or fabric.

10. Using Heat to Loosen the Staples

In some cases, applying heat to the area around the staples can make them easier to remove. This method is particularly useful for removing staples that are deeply embedded or that have been in place for a long time, as the heat can soften the wood or fabric, making it easier to lift the staples.

To use this method, simply apply heat to the area around the staple using a hairdryer or heat gun. Be careful not to apply too much heat, as this could damage the wood or fabric. Once the area is warm, use a staple remover tool, flathead screwdriver, or pliers to gently lift the staple.

Conclusion

Removing staples from furniture can be a meticulous task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done effectively without causing damage. Each method discussed offers distinct advantages depending on the type of staples being removed and the materials involved.

Whether using manual methods like a pry bar, hammer and chisel, or more advanced tools like an electric staple remover, careful execution is essential. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to remove staples from furniture!