How to Remove a Stripped Screw from a Door Knob or Hinge

A stripped screw won't turn with a normal screwdriver — it just spins. Here's what to try, in order.

1. Rubber band trick

Lay a wide rubber band flat over the screw head. Press the screwdriver in firmly through the rubber band and turn slowly. The rubber fills the stripped grooves and gives the bit something to grip.

2. Bigger bit, more pressure

A slightly larger flat-head bit, pressed in hard, often bites where the correct-size Phillips just spins.

3. Screw extractor bit

If the first two don't work, a screw extractor bit drills into the screw and backs it out in reverse. This is the most reliable method and won't damage the wood around it.

Once it's out

Replace it with the correct size — don't reuse a stripped screw. Send us a photo of the hardware and the old screw and we'll match the replacement.