Fix a loose screw hole with toothpicks

Fill the stripped hole with glued toothpicks and the screw grips again.

Home & DIYTakes 10 minutesFree

Updated October 24, 2026

How to do it

0 of 5 steps done

Tap each step as you finish it.

1Take out the loose screw.
2Dip 2 or 3 wooden toothpicks in wood glue (white school glue works in a pinch).
3Push them into the hole as far as they go.
4Snap or cut them off flush with the surface and let the glue set for a few minutes.
5Drive the screw back in. It bites into the fresh wood and holds tight.

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