Breaking a ceramic household item is frustrating, but most can be repaired—so long as you have all the pieces and a high-quality adhesive. The best glue for ceramic can not only rescue small shattered and broken objects, but it can even fix ceramic tiles and countertops. If you own or work with ceramics often, it’s wise to have a specialty glue on hand.
We tested a variety of super glues and epoxies on some of the most common ceramics used in the home including stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware to determine their ease of application, drying times, and cured finish color. Use this guide to the best ceramic glues going to find the product you’ll want to keep in your tool kit or utility drawer.
- BEST OVERALL: Gorilla Super Glue Brush & Nozzle
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush-On Glue
- BEST EPOXY: J-B Weld 50112 ClearWeld Quick-Setting Epoxy
- BEST CERAMIC GLUE FILLER: J-B Weld 50101 MinuteWeld Instant-Setting Epoxy
- BEST WATERPROOF: Gorilla Original Waterproof Gorilla Glue
- BEST FOOD-SAFE: DAP All-Purpose 100% Silicone Adhesive Sealant
- HONORABLE MENTION: Pratley Quickset White Epoxy Glue
How We Tested the Best Ceramic Glues
We tested these adhesives based on three rubrics: bonding time, applicator type, and the color of the product when dried. All glues tested indicated their suitability for three different types of ceramic items: earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain.
We held each of the ceramic pieces in place by hand or clamp for the bonding time recommended by the manufacturer; in general, we found the bond set faster than the manufacturer’s claim. Most of the glues only came with one type of applicator, except for the Gorilla Super Glue, which had a brush and nozzle applicator.
Our Top Picks
Although all the glues we tested in our hands-on review will repair broken ceramics, we found that some are easier to use and have faster drying times than others. Keep reading and you’re likely to find the right glue for ceramic repairs and other projects.
Photo: amazon.com
With a unique formulation that includes rubber particles to increase bond strength and impact resistance, Gorilla Super Glue gel is the best product we tested for general ceramic repairs. This Gorilla Glue can also be used on plastic, metal, stone, fabric, paper, and rubber, among other materials, and it dries in less than 45 seconds. It dries clear to help make repairs undetectable.
Beyond the glue itself, two applicators are included to fine-tune usage to suit the project: a fine-bristle brush for smaller, thin cracks and a precision-tip nozzle for quick, accurate dispensing. Practice makes perfect when using the applicators, however. In our tests, the Gorilla Glue took several tries with the tip applicator to get the glue flowing at the ideal rate. The brush applicator is easy to use, but the viscosity of the gel made it tricky to get the right amount of adhesive on the brush without making a mess.
This Gorilla Glue is neither FDA approved nor water-resistant. It has a strong odor that dissipates after drying, but it should be applied in a well-ventilated area.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 10 to 45 seconds
- Finish: Clear
- Applicator: Brush and nozzle
Pros
- Gel formula is easy to see upon dispensing for control and accuracy
- 2 applicator options included; comed with a brush and nozzle
- Bonds almost immediately for quick and easy repairs on multiple surfaces
Cons
- Nozzle applicator takes practice; may be tricky for some users
- Rim of container gets messy when using brush; top may stick to rim after closing
- Very strong odor when wet; users are advised to wear a mask if using a lot of the product
Get the Gorilla Super Glue at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Target, or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
For a fast, strong bond at a budget-friendly price, consider Krazy Glue Home & Office Brush-On Glue. It provides an instant bond on ceramics as well as metal, vinyl, plastic, and wood. The included brush applicator is easy to control and gives excellent coverage, even in tight spaces. The well-designed no-clog bottle keeps the glue fresh and the brush bristles from sticking together.
When putting Krazy Glue through its paces, we found it to create a very strong bond with just a small amount of product. But while the brush does make application easy, the glue itself is clear and thin, so it’s a bit hard to see. Plus, because it dries so quickly, we suggest doing a dry run: Practice replacing the broken pieces together so you’ll know just where to place them after adding the glue.
This low-priced household staple is sold in a pack of two. It is neither water-resistant nor FDA approved for food safety.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 30 seconds
- Finish: Clear
- Applicator: Brush
Pros
- Sets super fast; immediate curing time for quick and easy fixes
- A little goes a long way; there’s enough product to last for a long time
- Brush applicator is easy to use; suitable for first-timers
- Very durable bond for long-lasting adhesion on ceramics and other materials
Cons
- Sets almost too fast; will bond to skin immediately if accidentally applied
- Thin formula is difficult to see when applying; may be tricky for some users
Get the Krazy Glue glue at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
J-B Weld ClearWeld Quick-Setting Epoxy is a multipurpose adhesive that provides strong, durable, and clear bonds on everything from ceramic and glass to wood and plastic. It has a psi (pound-force per square inch) of 3,900, which creates a significantly stronger bond compared to most glues, which range between 500 and 2,000 psi.
The epoxy comes with a mixing tray, a stir stick, a syringe for convenient preparation, and a craft stick for application. Though quick-setting for an epoxy—it dries in 5 minutes and cures in an hour—we found it essential to clamp or hold items together as it sets. The benefit of this set time is it allows for adjustments, if needed. This epoxy is neither FDA approved nor waterproof.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 5 minutes
- Finish: Clear
- Applicator: Wood craft stick
Pros
- High tensile strength provides a long-lasting adhesion on multiple surfaces
- Takes very little time to fully cure; can repair items quickly
- Easy-to-use syringe-like applicator provides accuracy while using
- No-waste cap prevents clogs, ensures reuse, and allows for safe storage
Cons
- Clamping or holding items may be necessary while users glue ceramics
- Tray and wood craft stick can only be used once
Get the J-B Weld ClearWeld glue at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
More than a mere adhesive, this two-part epoxy quickly fills cracks and crevices in ceramics quite well. With a strength of 2,300 psi, the heavy-duty epoxy is extremely strong; it’s also versatile, working on tile, fiberglass, plastic, PVC, wood, and concrete as well as ceramics.
J-B Weld MinuteWeld Instant-Setting Epoxy sets in under a minute and takes about an hour to cure. The epoxy includes a syringe, mixing tray, and stir stick to make preparing the formula easy. This adhesive is neither FDA approved nor waterproof.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 1 minute
- Finish: Clear
- Applicator: Wood craft stick
Pros
- Syringe-like applicator is easy to use for precise application
- High tensile strength provides a heavy-duty adhesion for long-term repair
- Fully cures in under a minute for quick and easy fixes
Cons
- Tray and wood craft stick can only be used once
Get the J-B Weld MinuteWeld glue at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Gorilla Original Waterproof Gorilla Glue won’t break down when exposed to water, making it an ideal choice for a ceramic vase or planter, as well as items that spend time outdoors and exposed to the elements. This water-activated polyurethane-formulated Gorilla Glue expands three times into the material to form a strong bond that’s durable and long lasting.
This waterproof glue is versatile, working well on wood, metal, foam, glass, stone, and concrete in addition to ceramics. It’s not FDA approved, however, so it should never be used on items that come into contact with food.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 1 to 2 hours
- Finish: Tan
- Applicator: Nozzle
Pros
- Waterproof and won’t break down when exposed to outdoor elements
- Expands 3 times its size after application into/onto ceramics and other materials for a strong bond
- Bond holds through hot and cold temperatures; suitable for use in hot and cold areas
Cons
- Large bottle is cumbersome and may make it hard to apply the product accurately
- Large applicator tip makes it difficult to control the flow of glue
- Takes 1 to 2 hours to set completely; not ideal for quick fixes
Get the Gorilla waterproof glue at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Target (2 ounces), or Lowe’s (4 ounces).
Photo: amazon.com
Don’t cry over spilled milk or broken dishware! DAP Silicone Adhesive Sealant is a fine choice for safely fixing a favorite mug, plate, or other items that come in contact with food and drinks. DAP’s brand is well known for nontoxic, strong adhesives that are often used in schools, workshops, and offices.
This clear-drying glue offered a 100 percent waterproof bond upon testing and can be put in the dishwasher and microwave after fully curing in just 24 hours. Plus, while we were testing, this silicone glue did not shrink or crack after it had fully cured.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 10 minutes
- Finish: Clear
- Applicator: Plastic applicator
Pros
- Dishwasher- and microwave-safe; suitable for plates, mugs, bowls, and more
- Nontoxic and food-safe for use on any food containers
- Works on nonporous surfaces such as glass as well as ceramics
- Waterproof bond is also suitable for use on aquariums and fish bowls
Cons
- May be hard to control the glue flow while in use
Get the DAP glue at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Those looking for a strong adhesive that works fast may wish to consider Pratley Quickset White Epoxy Glue. It can be used to bond pieces together and also fill holes, cracks, and gaps. A good choice for rough, rigid, and painted surfaces, it is often used to repair decorative ceramics, yet its high strength makes it a top choice for sinks as well as stone, concrete, glass, fiberglass, and metal.
Pratley Quickset’s two-tube system requires mixing, but no mixing tray or stir stick is included. It does bond quickly, though, in just 3 minutes, and the product reaches 75 percent of its strength in only 30 minutes. While the epoxy is white and will show, it can be painted to disguise the repair. It is neither waterproof nor FDA approved.
Product Specs
- Bonding time: 3 minutes
- Finish: White
- Applicator: Wood craft stick (not provided)
Pros
- Easy-to-squeeze tube allows user to dispense and mix small amounts
- Bonds quickly but remains workable to allow precise adjustments for up to 15 minutes
- Very durable; provides strong adhesion and fills in gaps on porous surfaces as well as ceramics
Cons
- Strong lingering odor after application; should be applied in a well-ventilated space
- Need to clean excess immediately before it sets; may be tricky for some users to apply
- Not recommended for nonwhite ceramics; may show on darker patterns or colors
Get the Pratley glue at Amazon.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Glue for Ceramic Repairs
Now that we’ve reviewed the best types of glue for ceramics, let’s go over some specifics. Everything from formulation to applicator to drying time can affect how well the adhesive will repair a ceramic piece. Read on to learn what should be considered before purchasing a new ceramic glue.
Glue Type
There are all types of glue, but the most common types for ceramic repair are super glue and epoxy.
- Super glue uses cyanide-derived cyanoacrylate to create a strong bond. This convenience product dries in seconds and, unlike epoxy, requires no mixing. It’s great for lightweight ceramics and creating bonds in a thin space, such as putting a broken rim of a planter back together.
- Epoxies include a hardener and a resin that, when mixed, provide a strong bond that’s ideal for ceramics. While a little extra effort is required to prepare, and drying times are longer, epoxy is more durable than super glue, so it’s the better choice for fixing items that get a lot of handling. Epoxies can also be used as fillers due to their viscosity. They effectively fill in dents, scratches, cracks, holes, or joints and can be sanded and painted to camouflage the repair.
Applicator and Container Shape
Many super glues have a small applicator tip to deposit the adhesive on the exact spot to be repaired. Some products have a nozzle for more precise application. Other glues come with a brush to allow more control over how thick or thin the product goes on.
The shape of the container can also be an important factor in ease of use if it’s basically an extension of the applicator. Certain container designs are also less likely to cause dripping. Avoid containers that drip, which wastes product and increases the risk of glue coming in contact with the skin, causing irritation.
Drying Time and Opacity
Every adhesive, no matter the type, has a different drying time, which will usually be printed somewhere on the label. Generally, epoxies take about 30 seconds to 5 minutes to set and up to several hours to cure. Quick-setting adhesives like super glue—which typically dries in seconds—don’t give much adjustment time; it’s best to do a dry fit first before adding the adhesive to ensure you position the pieces correctly.
Drying opacity is another aspect to keep in mind. Most glues will dry to a transparent finish so that the product won’t show on the ceramic. However, some change color as they dry. If using the glue as a filler, make sure to choose one that will match the color of the ceramic piece.
Food Safety
What makes many ceramic adhesives so strong is their chemical composition. Unfortunately, these chemicals are often not “food-safe,” meaning they should not be used on dishes, cups, or other items used for food and drinks. Most super glues contain cyanoacrylate. The chemical can cause skin irritation and minor stomach upset if ingested. Although the chemical is minimally toxic in small amounts, the FDA does not recommend it for use on any object that comes in direct contact with food or drinks.
If the ceramic piece being repaired is used to serve or display food, look for an FDA approval stamp on the product label. That certification is the only way to know for sure that the glue is food-safe. An FDA stamp is not important for items that won’t be around food.
Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant
Many but not all adhesives for ceramics are either waterproof or water-resistant. If your ceramic item is regularly exposed to liquids or kept in a typically moist environment, it’s wise to use a waterproof glue. Epoxies may be waterproof, while super glues are more likely to be water-resistant. A water-resistant glue should hold up fine to hand-washing, and some can even survive a dishwasher. Read labels or online product information to determine if a glue is water-resistant or waterproof.
Accessories
As with most crafting products, ceramic glues may come with accessories that may be useful for repairs. Typically, these are tools that assist in application, such as a scraper, spatula, or an attachment that allows for better control of the flow of glue. Some adhesives come with multiple tops, syringes, and nozzles so you can brush on the glue or squeeze it out.
When working with super glues and epoxies, it’s a good idea to do your repairs over a tarp or sheet to protect the surface below. These aren’t usually available with adhesives, however.
Tips for Using Glue for Ceramic Repairs
While many crafters rely on a great glue gun, a high-quality epoxy or super glue is often a staple for numerous projects—especially if working with ceramics. These adhesives are also handy for around-the-house repairs, such as putting together a shattered flowerpot or repairing a decorative porcelain statuette. Consider these tips to obtain great results when using glue on ceramics:
- Clean the ceramic pieces fully and allow them to dry completely before applying the adhesive.
- If using epoxy, apply it within 3 minutes of mixing it to avoid it drying.
- Hold pieces of the ceramic together until they are firm and stable.
- Use tweezers to help hold smaller pieces in place.
FAQs
You now know what it takes to choose and properly use the best glue for ceramics yet may still want more information. Read on for answers to some of the most common questions about selecting and applying epoxy and super glue.
Q. Can you glue ceramic cookware?
Yes, but only if the glue is FDA approved.
Q. Is Gorilla Glue good for ceramic repairs?
Yes. Gorilla Super Glue is the brand’s most recommended product for ceramic repair.
Q. How do you glue ceramics back together?
Apply epoxy or glue to the edge of the broken pieces and then hold them together until they are secure. Let dry for the time indicated on the package before 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.
