Home Home Improvement How To: Remove a Stuck Light Bulb Think you have to break a stuck bulb to get it dislodged from the socket? Think again. Try the easier, faster, and safer solution in this video―and let there be light. By Real Simple Editors Real Simple Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter An article attributed to "Real Simple Editors" indicates a collaborative effort from our in-house team. Sometimes, several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The REAL SIMPLE team strives to make life easier for you. They are experts in their fields who research, test and clearly explain the best recipes, strategies, trends and products. They have worked for some of the most prestigious brands in lifestyle journalism, including Apartment Therapy, Better Homes & Gardens, Food & Wine, the Food Network, Good Housekeeping, InStyle, Martha Stewart Living, O: The Oprah Magazine, Parents, POPSUGAR, Rachel Ray Every Day, and Vogue. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Updated on July 22, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email Think you have to break a stuck bulb to get it dislodged from the socket? Think again. Try the easier, faster, and safer solution in this video―and let there be light. What You Need Duct tape, scissors Follow These Steps Turn the power off and let the bulb cool. Unplug your lamp or turn off the switch and wait about two minutes for the bulb to cool.Cut the tape and make a loop. Cut a two-foot-long strip of duct tape. Gently make a loop by affixing ends together, keeping the tape’s sticky side turned inward.Create handles with the tape. Lower your tape loop around the bulb and gently press tape at the loop’s center onto the bulb’s sides. Pinch the remaining lengths of tape together to form two long strips on either side of the bulb. Tip: In case the bulb breaks, wear gardening or work gloves for these steps.Twist counterclockwise. Gripping ends between your thumbs and index fingers, twist counterclockwise to loosen the bulb. Tip: Use an unpeeled potato to remove the base of a broken bulb (with the power off, of course). Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit