A stripped screw hole in wood spins freely and no longer holds a screw, but you can rebuild the material so it grips again. This covers the classic wooden-toothpick fix and sturdier options for larger or load-bearing holes.
What you'll need
- Wooden toothpicks, matchsticks, or golf tees
- Wood glue
- A utility knife
- The original screw and a screwdriver
- A damp cloth
Step by step
- Remove the screw and clear the holeTake out the loose screw and clean any debris or old wood fragments from the hole so new material seats cleanly.
- Coat filler pieces with glueDip wooden toothpicks, matchsticks, or a golf tee in wood glue so the whole hole will be lined with fresh, gluable wood.
- Pack the holePush the glued pieces into the hole until it is snugly filled. Use enough to make it tight but not so much that the wood splits.
- Trim flush and let it dryCut off the excess even with the surface using a utility knife, wipe away squeezed-out glue, and let the glue cure fully as the label directs.
- Drill a pilot holeOnce dry, drill a small pilot hole in the center of the repair so the screw threads bite without splitting the new wood.
- Drive the screw back inReinstall the original screw. It should now grip firmly in the rebuilt hole. For heavy loads, consider a slightly longer or thicker screw or a wall anchor.
Handy tips
- For bigger holes, glue in a hardwood dowel sized to the hole, let it dry, then drill and screw into it for a stronger repair.
- Golf tees work well for larger holes such as door hinges because they taper and fill more space.
- A dab of wood filler over the top can hide the repair before painting or staining.
Heads up
- Let the glue cure fully before driving the screw. Rushing it means the filler crushes instead of holding, and the hole strips again.
FAQ
Will toothpicks really hold a screw?
Yes, for light to moderate loads. Glue-coated toothpicks or matchsticks restore enough material for the screw threads to grip. Use a dowel for heavy-duty holds.
Can I just use a bigger screw instead?
Sometimes a slightly longer or wider screw works, but if the hole is badly worn it may keep spinning. Rebuilding the hole first gives a more reliable fix.
What about wood filler or epoxy on its own?
Plain wood filler is weak for screws, but a two-part epoxy or a dedicated repair putty can work. Let it cure, then drill a pilot hole before driving the screw.