Fix a Jammed Manual Stapler
Have you ever had your stapler stuck, and you can't get it loose? Then, your boss has you doing a job with lots of stapling? You panic. You can't do the job! Calm down. Read this article. Learn how to un-jam the stapler.
Contents
Steps
Checking the extent of the jamming
- Pick up the stapler and turn it upside down.
- Put your finger on the metal part, slightly behind where the staple is stuck.
- Find out how badly it is stuck. Use this knowledge to determine which method will help.
Only the staple is jammed
If the staple is the only thing jammed, use this method.
- Put a paper clip into the place where the staples come out.
- Find the staple, and knock it out with the paper clip. This might take some effort, but it will get it unjammed.
Metal section is jammed to top of stapler
- If the metal section where the staples are inserted is stuck in the top of the stapler, try these steps:
- Take your finger out.
- Put a paper clip in between the metal part and the plastic as much as possible.
- Pull down forcefully. This should get it unjammed. If there is a staple stuck, follow the unjamming staple method above.
Inability to load staples when top won't lift
- If the top won't pop, meaning you can't load more staples, try this method.
- Take the plastic part.
- Force it upwards.
- Repeat the second step until it pops up.
- Alternatively, try a metal letter opener to leverage the jammed part.
- Finished.
Using a staple remover
- Open up the stapler. Flip it upside down.
- Find one of the small circular holes in the silver part of the stapler.
- Using a staple remover, place one side of the remover such that a prong is inside the hole and the other such that it is clamped around the silver part.
- Squeeze and pull until the silver piece comes out of the top.
Tips
- Don't steal your co-worker's stapler.
- Keep your hopes up kid.
- Don't yell at your stapler.
- Be persistent.
- Find some glue or tape instead. It'll work.
- Use needle-nosed pliers to pull the metal part away from the plastic housing.
Warnings
- Don't put your finger where the staple is stuck.
- Don't press down from the top. You have your index finger on the metal.
- Be careful not to staple a body part.