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Old caulk has a way of stealing the show—and not in a good way. That dingy, cracked sealant can deter from the clean appearance of a sink, tub, or other bathroom fixture, or can allow bugs or leaks to pour in around windows and doors. But, it’s also kind of a pain to remove.
For DIYers facing this task, however, there might be a way to speed through the caulk removal process and jump right into applying new sealant. There are specialized tools designed explicitly for these tasks, and this guide on the best caulk removers will explain.
- BEST OVERALL: Saker Silicone Caulking Tools
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Coitak Angled Grout Saw
- BEST OSCILLATING TOOL: Bosch GOP18V-28N Oscillating Multi-Tool
- BEST TOOL BLADE: Dremel MM610 Oscillating Tool Flexible Scraper Blade
- BEST SCRAPER: Dekeones Razor Blade Scraper
- BEST LIQUID: Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41116 Foam and Caulk Spray
- BEST KNIFE: Hyde 06988 8-in-1 Multi-Tool
- BEST GRIP: Amazon Basics Soft Grip Grout/Caulk Removal Tool
How We Chose the Best Caulk Removal Tools
Putting together a list of the best caulk removal tools can be as tough as the old caulk itself. We had to rely on our own experiences with bathroom renovations, weatherproofing, and other caulking removal jobs in order to determine the features we thought were important.
Next, we performed extensive product research to collect a candidate pool of the best caulk removal tools. We compared each model to our list of features and took note of the prices. With that under our belt, we were able to throw out the tools we felt didn’t offer enough value and suggest the ones that did.
Our Top Picks
For help choosing the best caulk removal tool for a given project, reference the following products. This list consists of some of the best caulk removal tools on the market, organized by category. All of our chosen top picks also have a thoroughly vetted list of pros and cons for a quick overview of what each product can do.
Best Overall
Saker Silicone Caulking Tools
Product Specs
- Type: Specialized tool
- Materials: Heavy-duty plastic and stainless steel
- Extra features: Built-in scraper, caulk trowel, and several tips
Pros
- Compact design with a comfortable handle for applying leverage; built-in scraper and trowel
- Lightweight and compact construction can be stored in a tool box, belt, or in a drawer
- Versatile design has 3-in-1 functionality for a variety of project types
Cons
- Motion can be tricky to get used to; may take some time to master
DIYers looking for an all-around kit that can see them through an entire caulk repair job might appreciate the Saker silicone caulking tool. This kit comes as one tool with a built-in blade for removing caulk, a plastic scraper, and a caulk applicator with several tips. The tool itself has a heavy-duty plastic body with a stainless steel caulk removal blade.
This silicone caulking tool is compact, allowing it to fit in tight places. It also features a comfortable handle that should fit well in the hand of most DIYers and provide plenty of leverage. While it is versatile, the back-and-forth motion required to scrape the caulk loose might take some getting used to.
Get the Saker caulk removal tool at Amazon.
Best Bang For The Buck
Coitak Angled Grout Saw
Product Specs
- Type: Specialized tool
- Materials: Plastic and metal
- Extra features: Angled handle, 3 blades, and a hanging hole
Pros
- Comes with 3 diamond-style blades and an ergonomic angled handle
- Can be used on both vertical and horizontal surfaces for peak versatility
- Suitable for use on vinyl, plastic, metal, rubber, caulk, and grout
- Hanging hole on the end of the handle allows for easy storage in a workshop
Cons
- May be hard to use for large-scale projects
Those who are interested in removing grout or caulk and don’t want the fuss of a powerful tool or a high price tag can rely on the Coitak angled grout saw. This versatile and budget-friendly caulk removal tool can be used on vertical or horizontal surfaces and comes with three diamond-style blades and a sturdy plastic handle for comfort and effectiveness while in use. The angle of the handle itself is very ergonomic to prevent strain on the user when putting a lot of pressure on the saw.
This small but powerful tool’s saw is 5.3 inches long, which allows it to cover a lot of ground while chipping away at stubborn vinyl, plastic, metal, rubber, caulk, and grout. The angled handle also has a hanging hole so users can keep it hung in a workshop or tool box.
Get the Coitak caulk removal tool at Amazon.
Best For Oscillating Tool
Bosch GOP18V-28N Oscillating Multi-Tool
Product Specs
- Type: Power tool attachment
- Materials: Metal and plastic
- Extra features: Brushless motor, toolless blade-change system, LED light, and multiple accessories
Pros
- 4-amp brushless motor with electronic motor protection for long-term reliability
- Operates between speeds of 8,000 and 20,000 oscillations per minute (OPM); suitable for cutting, sanding, and grinding
- Battery-powered cordless construction is powerful and easy to maneuver
- Toolless blade-change system is safe and easy to use
Cons
- May chip tile when removing grout; should be handled with care
For professional grout removal, there is no better option than an oscillating tool. This Bosch model is a versatile and effective caulk tool for a variety of projects, including removing stubborn or old grout. It comes with a 4-amp brushless motor that operates at speeds of 8,000 to 20,000 OPM.
This 2.7-pound tool is also easy to use with a toolless blade-change system; a built-in LED light; and a variety of useful accessories for removing grout, sanding, grinding, and cutting. This Bosch oscillating tool is also cordless and battery-powered, which makes it easy to maneuver and transport, but it performs as if it is corded. Plus, it comes with electronic motor protection to prevent any overloads or malfunctions.
Read our full review: Bosch GOP18V-28N Oscillating Multi-Tool
What our tester says: Glenda Taylor, a Bob Vila product tester and staff writer, notes in The Best Oscillating Tools that “we sanded, cut wood, cut metal, and even attached the included grout-removal tool and used it on some old tile we’d be replacing. The device is exceptional: It fit well in hand, didn’t vibrate extensively even at low speeds, and the battery stayed charged throughout our 1-hour test period. The Bosch is a top-notch oscillating tool that excels in both cutting and sanding.” Get the Bosch caulk removal tool at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Acme Tools.
Best For Oscillating Tool
Dremel MM610 Oscillating Tool Flexible Scraper Blade
Product Specs
- Type: Oscillating tool blade
- Materials: High-carbon steel
- Extra features: Universal design
Pros
- Universal fit for several brands of multi-tools and oscillating tools
- High-carbon steel for durability and long-term use or multiple projects
- Flexible for reaching into awkward angles; perfect for getting in between tiles
Cons
- Can scratch a surface if not used carefully; may not be ideal for thin tilework
Digging through old caulk can be a tough job, and the fastest way to do it is with an oscillating tool. For those who prefer to go this speedy route, be sure to consider the Dremel MM610 oscillating tool flexible scraper blade. This blade attaches to several brands’ oscillating tools including Dremel, Bosch, Milwaukee, Makita, and Rockwell tools to quickly slice through the job at hand.
Dremel makes its blades from high-carbon steel, meaning the blade can take the high speeds dealt by an oscillating tool, as well as the heat and friction caused by the caulk. Also, this blade features a bit of flex for reaching into awkward angles. Do keep in mind that this sharp tool blade can scratch a surface if the user isn’t careful.
Get the Dekeones caulk removal tool at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.
Best Scraper
Dekeones Razor Blade Scraper
Product Specs
- Type: Scraper
- Materials: Plastic and stainless steel
- Extra features: 2 different blades and safety caps
Pros
- Smaller scraper features 2 blades: 1 plastic and 1 metal
- Longer-handled scraper reaches into tight spaces while the short option allows for heavy-duty scraping
- Comes with several razors and 2 plastic safety caps for storing
Cons
- Can scrape or chip surfaces like delicate tilework
Tough caulk removal jobs can leave residue behind, and it takes a sturdy tool like the Dekeones razor blade scraper kit to remove it. This kit comes with two scrapers: one compact scraper with a stainless razor blade on one side and a plastic razor on the other, and a long-handled scraper for reaching into tight spots.
Both razors feature sturdy plastic handles that DIYers will find comfortable, while the long-handled razor features a metal arm for durability. The kit comes with 20 metal blades and 10 plastic ones, as well as two plastic caps for keeping sharp razors safely stowed away. Keep in mind that these blades can easily scrape surfaces if held too steeply.
Get the Dekeones caulk removal tool at Amazon.
Best Liquid
Motsenbocker’s Lift Off 41116 Foam and Caulk Spray
Product Specs
- Type: Spray
- Materials: Water-based formula
- Extra features: NA
Pros
- Spray-on solution works quickly to dissolve caulk and grout
- Biodegradable formula is ideal for the chemical-conscious household
- Breaks molecular bond between caulk and surface for easier removal
- Versatile formula works well on several sealants and glues
Cons
- Instructions for proper use should be followed; can damage surfaces if left on too long
Some caulk removal jobs are about working smarter rather than harder, and Motsenbocker’s Lift Off spray is the product for those jobs. This spray-on solution penetrates the space between the caulk and the surface, breaking the molecular bonds that hold the two together. This allows users to remove the caulk in pieces rather than the solution dissolving it altogether.
This spray-on solution features a water-based formula that is biodegradable. It works on caulks, expansion foams, sealants, construction adhesives, and epoxies. It takes just 5 to 10 minutes after spraying to loosen the caulk, making fast work of tough bonds. However, if left to sit for more than 15 minutes, it can damage the surface.
Get the Motsenbocker’s caulk removal tool at Amazon or Lift Off.
Best Knife
Hyde 06988 8-in-1 Multi-Tool
Product Specs
- Type: Knife
- Materials: Stainless steel blade and rubber over-molded grip
- Extra features: Paint can opener, roller cleaner, and more
Pros
- Comes with built-in features like a can opener, roller cleaner, and putty spreader
- Heavy-duty steel can take a lot of pressure and leverage; suitable for tough or stubborn caulk and grout
- Over-molded rubber grip is comfortable to hold when in use
Cons
- Not as sharp as a razor; may not be ideal for some users’ projects
When it comes to versatility, Hyde’s 8-in-1 multi-tool checks a lot of the boxes. This painter’s tool features a stiff blade with a tapered edge that can get underneath caulk and separate it from a counter, a sink, or a window surface. It can also open paint cans, spread putty, clean paint rollers, set popped drywall nails, and more.
This knife features a heavy-duty stainless steel that can take a lot of abuse and pressure. Also, most DIYers will likely find the rubber over-molded grip to be comfortable in hand. While the edge might not be as sharp as a scraper, the tapered edge is also less likely to scratch a counter or a fixture.
Get the Hyde caulk removal tool at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.
Best Grip
Amazon Basics Soft Grip Grout/Caulk Removal Tool
Sometimes all it takes is a simple tool to get the job done. This caulk remover from Amazon Basics has what it takes, and its ergonomic grip makes it worth considering. This tool features a carbon steel hook that can remove grout or caulk easily, as well as a polypropylene handle topped with a rubber grip for improved ergonomics.
This tool’s tough materials makes it rugged enough for heavy-duty work. The comfortable grip features an ergonomic design that the user can grasp for tough caulk removal jobs. It’s capable enough to use on its own, but doubled up with a spray-on caulk remover, it’ll zip through caulk. However, without extra features or other uses, it’s a bit low on versatility.
Product Specs
- Type: Specialized
- Materials: Carbon steel and polypropylene grip
- Extra features: Soft-touch grip
Pros
- Comfortable grip for improved ergonomics
- Durable steel can handle heavy-duty work
- Works well with spray-on caulk remover
Cons
- No extra frills or versatility
Get the Amazon Basics caulk removal tool at Amazon.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Caulk Removal Tool
Applying clean beads of caulk to baseboards, windows, and bath fixtures can be tough, but removing it can be a painstaking task. Choosing the best caulk removal tool will make the job a lot easier. Below are some of the top considerations to keep in mind when choosing a caulk remover. Be sure to consider each point before buying one of these tools.
Types
DIYers have a few choices when it comes to the types of tools available for removing caulk. There are basic scrapers and knives, as well as specialized hand tools, blades that attach to power tools, and even liquid solvents.
Which type to choose is a matter of preference.
- Scrapers often feature removable utility blades that can slice through a caulk bead. They are a bit awkward in hand, however.
- Knives, similar the ones painters carry for all-purpose uses, are also useful for removing caulk. Their edges aren’t as sharp as scrapers, but the longer handles make controlling them much easier.
- Specialized tools designed specifically for working with caulk are also available. Most often, these are combination tools with scrapers, blades, and even tooling edges for smoothing new caulk.
- Power tool attachments, like blades that attach to electric oscillating multi-tools, can easily work their way into beads of caulk. These attachments can make short work of a long bead, but they’re also a bit more likely to scratch or mark a surface.
- Liquid solvents can be helpful for folks who can’t stand scraping caulk. These sprays will loosen the caulk and make it easier to remove, but they won’t remove the caulk entirely on their own. Don’t be fooled into thinking they can remove caulk from fabrics, however. There are specific tricks for that.
Size
Removing caulk may require reaching into some tight or awkward places, and large tools just aren’t up for the job. For these situations, a compact tool that will fit in those nooks and crannies will make removing that stubborn sealant much easier.
However, for large amounts of caulk, a smaller tool might not do the trick. In these cases, a larger tool with a longer handle can make applying leverage to a thick bead of caulk much easier. These tools will be able to get underneath the caulk and separate it from the surface—something that might seem impossible with a smaller caulk-removing tool.
Versatility
There are a lot of tools available that can remove caulk, but some of them have more than one function. For instance, painter’s tools with knife edges can scrape up caulk, open paint cans, or even tighten the screws on light switch covers. Likewise, some caulk removers might have a fixture for removing caulk in bathrooms, as well as a fixture for tooling fresh caulk.
For DIYers, this type of versatility could make all the difference. One tool that can handle several jobs means a smaller overall investment. It also equates to less space taken up in a tool box, leaving room for other implements.
Materials
Caulk tools designed for removing caulk will see a lot of hard use, so it’s important that they’re made from quality materials. The blades or edges meant for separating the caulk from the surface are best when made from a durable metal like stainless steel or tool steel. These blades will work for a long time, take a bit of abuse, and can even take a sharpening if necessary.
As far as handles go, durable plastics are typically the material of choice. However, some of the best caulk removal tools feature wooden handles, or all-metal shanks with molded rubber grips. Any of these materials will usually last for several years.
Safety
Some tools designed for caulk removal feature sharp razor blades or edges, and applying a bit of pressure to a stubborn bead of sealant can get a little sketchy. Also, storing a caulk remover tool with an uncovered blade in a tool belt or toolbox is a recipe for stitches.
To reduce the risk of accidental cuts, manufacturers often include blade covers that users can pop on and off when needed. Also, handles that offer plenty of grip to prevent slipping or clumsy fumbling will reduce the risk of an accidental cut while applying leverage.
FAQs
Even with that extensive background on the best caulk removal tools, there might be some additional questions sticking around. The following includes some of the most frequently asked questions about these tools.
Q. Do caulk removal tools work?
There are several types of tools designed to remove caulk, but most work similarly. The tools dig into the caulk and separate the bond between the sealant and the surface it’s adhered to.
Q. What will remove silicone caulking?
Knives, scrapers, and caulk removing tools are often the best silicone removers, but spray-on removers can also be effective, and they’re often less of a headache to use.
Why Trust Bob Vila
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.