Rubber Band Grip Method

Place a wide rubber band flat over the stripped screw head so it covers the damaged slots. Press a screwdriver firmly into the head through the rubber band and turn counter-clockwise. The rubber fills the worn gaps, restoring enough friction to grip and turn the screw.

Why It Works

The rubber conforms to the irregular surface of the stripped head, creating friction where metal-on-metal contact has been lost. Thicker bands (such as those used to bundle broccoli or asparagus) work best because they fill deeper gaps.

Limitations

This method works on lightly to moderately stripped screws. If the head is completely rounded off or the screw is seized due to corrosion, the rubber band will not provide enough torque. Move to a screw extractor in those cases.

Tips

• Use the largest screwdriver that fits the head to maximize contact area
• Push down hard while turning slowly to prevent the driver from slipping again
• A flathead screwdriver sometimes grips better than a Phillips on a stripped Phillips screw