Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Remove staples from paper
• Method 2 of 2: Remove staples from wood
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

As long as staplers have been around, staple removers have been around. It is widely believed that Louis XV of France once owned the first stapler. He used the new-made device to fasten legal documents together with metal staples bearing the royal coat of arms. Staple removal doesn't have to be tedious or time-consuming, whether you have a big pile of papers to drop by and separate, or some staples left over from carpet removal.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Remove staples from paper

1. Choose a staple remover. There are many different types of staple removers that work differently and that you can use to loosen and remove staples from paper. Some staple removers are very simple and others are more complicated. Depending on the amount of paper you have and the amount of staples you need to remove, you may prefer a particular type of staple remover.
   • One of the simplest and cheapest types of staple removers is a simple pliers with a spring, through which you can open and squeeze the staple remover. This staple remover is basically a small claw that you can use to squeeze the ends of the staple on the back of the paper. The staple will then come loose, allowing you to remove it from the paper. You can buy these staple removers for about a dollar at most office supply stores.
   • Another simple staple remover consists of a plastic pen with a rounded metal or plastic tab on the end. You push this tab under the ends of the staple, which you can then push up and release. The disadvantage is that you can apply less force with this staple remover.
   • Staple removers for the office have a more complicated mechanism, but are just as easy to use and more ergonomic. This type of staple remover resembles a type of scissors. You can place the end of the staple remover on the bent ends of the staple and then squeeze the handle to release the staple. It couldn't be easier.
   • Many copiers and staplers nowadays also have an integrated staple remover.
   • Your fingers are also perfect for removing a few staples from paper. However, if you have a large stack of paper, this may not be worth the hassle and aggravation. In that case it is better to use a staple remover. If you just want to use your fingers, push the ends of the staples up with a small coin, nail clippers, the end of a pen, or some other object.
2. Lay the paper upside down and examine the staple. At the back of the staple you will see two bent ends that you need to bend straight first to remove the staple without tearing the paper too much. Flip the paper over so you can see the bent ends of the staple and leave the paper on the table.
   • If you see that the ends of the staple are broken or already loose, it may be faster and easier to just pull the staple off instead of messing around with a staple remover.
3. Use the staple remover to push up the ends of the staple. Hold the staple remover against the ends of the staple and squeeze it open. This won't completely remove the staple, but it will help straighten the two ends that held the staple in place.This should allow you to pull the staple out of the paper.
   • If you're using a spring-loaded staple remover, make sure you keep the teeth in the right place. This way you can squeeze the staple neatly without damaging the paper. You can usually do this on any side of the paper if you are using a real staple remover.
4. Turn the paper over and remove the staple. After you straighten the ends, you should be able to pry the staple loose. You can use your fingers or the teeth of the staple remover to grasp the staple and pull it loose.
   • If the staple gets caught, be careful not to tear the paper. Gently wiggle your wrist back and forth to guide the staple through the paper. Bent, old, or rusty staples are more difficult to pull than newer staples. So it can take some effort. Just go slow and take your time.
5. Discard old staples. Make a neat stack of the staples while working. Do this especially when you have a large pile of papers that you need to drop by. Dispose of the staples properly afterwards. Stepping on a loose staple or getting one in your finger can be a painful experience. So it's a good idea to tidy up while working, instead of waiting until later.
   • Place a trash can right next to your desk so you can sweep the loose staples right in as needed. Do this regularly to prevent too much clutter from collecting in your workplace.

Method 2 of 2: Remove staples from wood

1. Choose a staple remover. After removing carpeting, you may find lots of staples left behind that are stuck in the subfloor. It is necessary to take a moment to inspect the floor and remove the staples so that your new carpet can be installed as neatly and safely as possible. This job can be tedious, but there are some useful tools to get you done as quickly as possible:
   • A flathead screwdriver and pliers are a good combination if you choose a primitive method. You can use the screwdriver to pry up or separate the staples and the pliers to pull them loose. You can also use just the pliers if you prefer.
   • An office staple remover can work effectively to remove certain types of staples. If the staples are small enough to remove with a spring-loaded staple remover that you also use with paper, try this. Even better is a flat staple remover that looks a bit like a crowbar and you can buy at most office supplies stores.
   • Knee pads are very helpful in doing this job. After crawling around on your knees for 15 minutes on a hard floor covered with carpeting glue and staples, you wish you had a pair.
2. Pull up as many staples as possible along with the carpet. When you remove the carpet, a lot of floor staples will come up along with the carpet. You can mainly remove the staples by sweeping them up from the floor. However, many staples will get stuck in the floor and then have to be removed. It will be a lot easier if you pull up as many staples directly along with the carpet as possible.
   • Proceed slowly and insert your pry bar under the carpet to loosen and pull it up. This way you can pull up as many staples as possible together with the carpet. Don't pull up too much carpet at once and don't go too fast. You'll make it easier for yourself if you leave fewer staples in the floor.
3. Using the staple remover, pry up the staples. Whether you want to use your staple remover or use a screwdriver primitively, this job requires little thought. Just get on your knees and start prying the staples loose. If you have someone to help you, one person can pry up the staples and the other pulls them out with pliers. Consult in advance to see which method works best and best suits the tools you have at home.
4. Sweep up the loose staples, working thoroughly. It is important not to leave staples on the floor. Sweep them up from the floor or vacuum them up with a vacuum cleaner after you are done removing them. Do this especially if you plan to install new carpeting soon. Try to sweep up any loose staples.

Tips

• Choose the staple remover that is easiest to work with.
• Use extra care when removing staples from small stacks of paper.
• Make sure the end is flat so you don't tear the paper.

Warnings

• Cutting yourself on paper can cause severe bleeding.
• Pay close attention to the staples when you are working. They could sting your fingers.

Necessities

• Paper with one or more staples in it.
• The staple remover of your choice (available on the internet or in the store).
• Fairly long fingernails if you want to use your fingers.