We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›
Old caulk has a way of stealing the show—and not in a good way, which is why caulk removal tools can deal with that dingy, cracked sealant. Bad or old caulk 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.
Our best overall caulking removing tool is the Saker Silicone Caulking Tool for its three-in-one design, heavy-duty construction, and lightweight handle. However, all of the products on this list were thoroughly vetted for effectiveness and reliability.
For DIYers, there might be a way to speed through the caulk removal process and jump right into applying new sealant. The best caulk removal tools are designed explicitly for these tasks, and this guide on the best caulk removers will explain.
- BEST OVERALL: Saker Silicone Caulking Tool
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Coitak Angled Grout Saw
- BEST OSCILLATING TOOL: Bosch GOP18V-28N StarlockPlus Oscillating Multi-Tool
- BEST TOOL BLADE: Dremel MM610 Universal Oscillating Scraper Blade
- BEST SCRAPER: Dekeones Razor Blade Scraper
- BEST LIQUID: Motsenbocker’s 41116 Lift Off Foam & Caulk Spray
- BEST KNIFE: Hyde 06988 Pro Stainless 8-in-1 Multi-Tool
- BEST GRIP: Allway 3-in-1 Caulk 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, dirty 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.
We also reached out to Brandon Walker, a painter and general carpenter with over 20 years of experience and the superintendent at ASAP Restoration LLC in Arizona. He shared his knowledge and expertise with us on what shoppers should look for when purchasing a caulk scraper. He says that “the best approach is to purchase one that can do the job of multiple tools at once. Good ones will have a solid steel scraper head, the ability to do a straight edge scrape, and replace the blades for it, and if it can do bead smoothing too.”
Next, we performed extensive research to collect a candidate pool of the best caulk removal tools. We even managed to get hands-on testing with one of the products. 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 caulk removing 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 hands-on tested and 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 Tool
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 caulk remover. This kit is considered the best tool to remove caulking as it comes as one tool with a built-in blade for removing caulk, a plastic scraper, and a caulk applicator with several tips. The caulk remover 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, silicone, and metal
- Extra features: Angled handle, 3 blades, and a hanging hole
Pros
- Comes with 3 diamond-style blades and an ergonomic and angled silicone handle
- Can be used on both vertical or flat 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 caulking removal tool can be used on vertical or horizontal surfaces and comes with three diamond-style blades and a sturdy plastic and silicone handle for comfort and effectiveness. 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 Oscillating Tool
Bosch GOP18V-28N StarlockPlus Oscillating Multi-Tool
Product Specs
- Type: Power tool attachment
- Materials: Plastic composite and aluminum
- Extra features: Brushless motor, toolless blade-change system, LED light, and multiple accessories
Pros
- 18-volt 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 an 18-volt brushless motor that operates at speeds of 8,000 to 20,000 OPM.
This 2.7-pound caulk remover 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.
What our tester says: Glenda Taylor, Bob Vila product tester and 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.”
Read our full review: Bosch GOP18V-28N Starlock Plus Oscillating Multi-Tool
Get the Bosch caulk removal tool at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Best Tool Blade
Dremel MM610 Universal Oscillating Scraper Blade
Product Specs
- Type: Oscillating tool blade
- Materials: Metal
- Extra features: Universal design
Pros
- Universal fit for several brands of multi-tools and oscillating tools
- Metal construction ensures durability and long-term use or ability to use on 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 heavy-duty metal, 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 Dremel caulk removal tool at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.
Best Scraper
Dekeones Razor Blade Scraper
Product Specs
- Type: Scraper
- Materials: Plastic and metal
- 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 metal razor blade on one side and a plastic razor on the other, and a long-handled scraper for reaching into tight spots.
Both razor scrapers 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 razor scrapers 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 41116 Lift Off Foam & 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, epoxies, and caulks
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, biodegradable formula. It works on caulks, expansion foams, sealants, construction adhesives, and epoxies. It takes just 3 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 Pro Stainless 8-in-1 Multi-Tool
Product Specs
- Type: Knife
- Materials: Stainless steel blade
- 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
- Plastic grip is comfortable to hold; suitable for extended 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 caulk remover and utility knife features a heavy-duty stainless steel that can take a lot of abuse and pressure. 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
Allway 3-in-1 Caulk Tool
Product Specs
- Type: Scraper and specialized tool
- Materials: Stainless steel, silicone rubber, and plastic
- Extra features: Silicone rubber triangle with 3 bead profiles (narrow, medium, and wide)
Pros
- Soft grip is comfortable to hold; suitable for use over extended periods of time
- Curved blade scoops out grout easily; users won’t have to strain to remove caulk
- Comes with an adjustable silicone rubber triangle with 3 bead profiles for applying caulk evenly
- Can remove silicone caulk as well as latex and acrylic caulk; can be used in bathrooms and on windows
Cons
- The blade may not be able to scrape very hard caulk effectively
The user’s grip on a caulk removal tool is important since the process requires a lot of precision and elbow grease. This all-in-one model from Allway comes with an ergonomic design and soft-grip handle that has a stainless steel scraper blade on one end for removing latex, silicone, and acrylic caulk and an adjustable silicone rubber triangle on the other end with three bead profiles that smooth caulk after it is applied.
The triangle head has a narrow, medium, and wide point for laying applied caulk in windows, around tubs, or in showers. The blade itself is made with a curved edge that scoops grout out easily.
Get the Allway 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 caulking remover. Be sure to consider each point when 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.
According to Walker, “if you have particularly ornate molding, baseboards, or picture hanger, then it would also be best to get a scraper with contouring heads so that you can find the best fit for each groove in the plank.”
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 remnants 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.
Caulk removal tools are efficient for a variety of tasks, including applying caulk. Many models on the market are made to be even more multipurpose as they can be used as paint can openers, paint roller cleaners, and as a way to clean grime out of caulk in tubs or showers.
Rubbing alcohol alone is not powerful enough to soften caulk. Isopropyl alcohol is an industrial-grade option that can effectively soften silicone caulks from plastic and painted surfaces. This compound is not abrasive and won’t damage surfaces.
While caulk removal tools are capable of removing caulk, a razor blade is capable of removing caulks effectively. We recommend the Hyde caulk removal tool for those who don’t have or prefer a caulking tool since this blade is versatile and ergonomically designed for scraping caulk out cleanly.
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.
Knives, scrapers, and caulk removing tools are often the best for theremoval of silicone caulk, but spray-on removers can also be effective, and they’re often less of a headache to use.
Brandon Walker of ASAP Restoration LLC shared his expertise for this:
“Place the tool at a slight angle to the surface of the caulk and with the scraper positioned against the joint. Apply a slight amount of pressure to the tool so that it stays in close connection with the wall to get the most caulk out of the corners.”