How to repair hard plastic objects with plastic adhesive
Give your favorite plastic items a second life with a simple, step-by-step repair using adhesive for plastic
A cracked storage box, a broken figurine, a snapped plastic frame. Before you throw it away, consider this: most hard plastic objects can be repaired at home with the right plastic adhesive. The result is clean, strong, and barely visible. All it takes is a steady hand and a few simple steps.
What you will need
- Bostik Hard Plastic adhesive
- The plastic object to repair
- A clean dry cloth or tissue
- Acetone (for surface prep and cleanup)
- Protective gloves
What is Bostik Hard Plastic?
Bostik Hard Plastic is a polyurethane-based solvent adhesive designed for strong, lasting repairs on rigid plastic surfaces. It forms a fast-setting, permanent bond that resists heat and water, making it well-suited for everyday plastic objects around the home. Once dry, it leaves a non-stain, clean finish, so your repaired item looks as good as it should. It also works on wood, metal and leather, making it a versatile pandikit sa plastic for all kinds of creative repair projects.
Good to know before you start
Bostik Hard Plastic contains flammable solvents. Always work in a well-ventilated space, away from open flames or sparks. Outdoors or near an open window is ideal. Not all plastics are compatible with this adhesive. It does not bond polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE), or silicone surfaces. If you are unsure of the plastic type, check the recycling symbol on the object before you start.
If any excess glue spills outside the repair area, remove it with acetone before it sets. Always test the acetone on a small, hidden area of your surface first to avoid damage. After handling, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
How to use adhesive for plastic to plastic, step by step
Step 1: Prepare the surfaces
Before applying any plastic adhesive, make sure both surfaces are completely clean and dry. Remove any dust, grease or moisture using a dry cloth. For a better bond, lightly sand the surfaces with emery cloth, then wipe clean with acetone. Taking a little time here makes a big difference to the final result.
Step 2: Apply to both surfaces
Apply a thin, even coat of Bostik Hard Plastic on both surfaces to be joined. Using the brush applicator, spread the adhesive carefully to cover the full repair area. Applying to both sides is what creates a strong, lasting bond.
Step 3: Wait until tacky
Leave both surfaces to dry for approximately 10 minutes. The adhesive should feel tacky to the touch but no longer wet. Do not rush this step. Joining the surfaces too early will weaken the bond.
Step 4: Align carefully and press
Once tacky, align both surfaces precisely before pressing them together. As a contact adhesive for plastic to plastic, the bond forms instantly on contact, so get your positioning right before joining. Press firmly and hold for 20 to 30 seconds to ensure full contact across the repair area.
Step 5: Let it cure
Avoid handling the repaired item for the first 10 minutes. For full bond strength, leave it to cure for 24 hours before putting it back into use. The wait is worth it.
Made a little mess?
- On my skin: do not try to pull the glue off your fingers. With sweat’s moisture, the bond will loosen within 30 minutes without doing anything. Apply warm soapy water to help dissolve the bond. Do not use acetone or solvents on the skin.
- On my furniture: Dry glue is not easy to remove, so it is advisable to work carefully and protect the surfaces you are working on. Should an accident occur, test the acetone on your furniture in an inconspicuous place beforehand; if there is no damage, clean the glue with acetone.
Which glue is right for you?
Bostik Hard Plastic is the best fixing tool for rigid plastic surfaces as once dry, it becomes as strong as the original material. For flexible plastic surfaces, use Bostik Soft Plastics glue; it includes a cuttable fixing patch in the kit that allows you to adapt to any tear shape and handle any repair. And for plastic repairs or plastic assembling in a wet environment, use Bostik PVC Pipe adhesive; in addition to being waterproof, it is certified for drinking water systems.
When to use Bostik Hard plastic clear glue?
Bostik Hard Plastic Glue is perfect for all kinds of tough jobs involving hard plastic, such as repairing a toy, a remote control, small appliances, tools... It also works well on wood, metal, and leather. This glue is easy to use, and perfect for your kitchen accessories, as its formula makes it safe especially for drinking water systems.
