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10 Best Heavy-Duty Staple Removers of 2024

Updated
Removing large staples is easy with these heavy-duty staple removers.

Putting staples in is easy, but getting them out can be a challenge. How else are you going to reupholster that antique chair? And getting old staples out of carpets is even more challenging.

We review the best heavy-duty staple removers rating them for ease of use, effectiveness, and cost while listening to buyer’s opinions. We do all the hard work, so all you have to do is choose.

Our Top Picks

We independently evaluate, assess and research all recommended products and services. If you purchase through the links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the MROCO Staple Remover
Best Carpet Staple Remover
MROCO Staple Remover
  • Durable stainless steel construction
  • Rubber-coated ergonomic handle
  • Lightweight and easy to use
Product Image of the Ktrio Magnetic Staple Remover
Best Magnetic
Ktrio Magnetic Staple Remover
  • Ergonomic handles
  • Magnetic pick-up
  • Incredible value for money
Product Image of the Southwire Bmeh-18 Electrician’s Hammer
Best Hammer-Style
Southwire Bmeh-18 Electrician’s Hammer
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Doesn’t mark surfaces
  • Comfortable fiberglass handle
Product Image of the Crescent Nail and Staple Puller Tool
Best Plier-Style
Crescent Nail and Staple Puller Tool
  • Heavy-duty black-oxide-coated steel head
  • Removes the heaviest-duty staples
  • Dual handles with rubber coating
Product Image of the C.S. Osborne Upholstery Staple Remover
Best Upholstery Staple Remover
C.S. Osborne Upholstery Staple Remover
  • Alloy tempered steel construction
  • American-made in New Yersey
  • Removes all types of staples
Product Image of the Swingline Extra-Wide Staple Remover
Best Budget
Swingline Extra-Wide Staple Remover
  • Spring-loaded closing action
  • Tackles most types of staples
  • Large top and bottom teeth
Product Image of the Rack-A-Tiers 52455 Staple Shark Tool
Best Multi-Purpose
Rack-A-Tiers 52455 Staple Shark Tool
  • Multiple uses
  • Removes all types of staples
  • Won’t damage wires or surfaces
Product Image of the Swingline Staple Remover
Best Ergonomic
Swingline Staple Remover
  • Ergonomic design for increased power
  • Attractive satin-chrome finish
  • Comes with 1-year warranty
Product Image of the Vercca Staple Remover
Best Construction Staple Remover
Vercca Staple Remover
  • Comes as a 2-part set
  • Removes staples and tacks from various surfaces
  • Incredible value for money
Product Image of the CocoX Heavy Duty Staple Remover
Best Floor Staple Remover
CocoX Heavy Duty Staple Remover
  • Increased leverage feature
  • Ergonomic design for comfort and grip
  • Lightweight

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we prioritize a hands-on approach to our evaluations. Our team leverages vast professional experience in performance analysis to review and rank the best heavy-duty staple removers. We examine factors like design, durability, ease of use, and effectiveness. We then compare these products, using a set of criteria to benchmark them. We gather evidence through real-life testing, and our findings are based on facts and data. We assess each product’s unique features, and provide an in-depth review of our results. This allows us to identify key decision-making factors for you, delivering an objective and trustworthy guide to the best heavy-duty staple removers on the market.



The Best Heavy Duty Staple Removers of 2024

These are our top-rated picks for the 10 best heavy-duty staple removers, thanks to hours of research and comparing the pros and cons of each model.

MROCO Staple Remover

Best Heavy Duty Carpet Staple Remover

While this staple remover is excellent at removing staples from carpets, it also lifts out fasteners from all other types of materials. It has a curved shape to make removing the staples easier, and it also protects your fingers from becoming trapped.

The staple remover is forged from steel, so it is durable, and the handle is rubber-coated for comfort and grip. The tip is angled, making it easier to gain purchase on the fastener and lift it out.

Pros

  • Stainless steel construction for durability.
  • Rubber-coated ergonomic non-slip handle for comfort and grip.
  • Lightweight and easy to use.
  • Ideal for removing most staple varieties, including from carpets and wood.

Cons

  • It will struggle to remove old, narrow types of staples.
  • Works better on surfaces other than wood.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 3.87
Dimensions (inches) 6.89 x 1.02 x 1.69
Type Blade
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic No
Material Stainless steel and rubber
Price $$$

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

Bought this tool to make removing staples from my boat seat backs and plywood subfloor a breeze, even with my arthritis. The handle could be softer, but it still did a great job, pulling out both prongs of the staples together and leaving my floors undamaged. It might struggle a bit with flush staples and could benefit from some sort of protective padding to prevent scratches, but it remained intact despite heavy use. This tool definitely simplifies and speeds up the staple removal process.

Ktrio Magnetic Staple Remover

Best Magnetic Heavy-Duty Staple Remover

The first thing to say is this Ktrio staple remover comes as a set of 3, so if you lose one, you have spares. The second thing is it is magnetic. This is a brilliant idea because staples are small and often drop onto the carpet and get lost.

It removes staples from a maximum of 20 sheets of paper, so it is ideal for the office environment. The design is simple, with a lift lever action, guaranteed never to tear the paper.

This blade-style remover is very competitively priced. It costs almost 3 times less than the Inscape Data model, and you get 3 in the bargain!

Pros

  • It comes as a pack of 3, so you always have spares.
  • Simple design with ergonomic handles.
  • Magnetic pick-up stops lost or fallen staples.
  • Fantastic price, making it incredible value for money.

Cons

  • Limited uses mean this is not the staple remover for wood or carpet.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 0.704
Dimensions (inches) 0.67 x 0.71 x 6.06
Type Blade
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic Yes
Material Steel and plastic
Price $

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've been using this staple remover for the last month and it hasn't disappointed me yet. What I appreciate most is how it gently lifts staples without tearing my documents, and the built-in magnet is an understated benefit. It's also surprisingly easy to use, making my work quicker and more efficient, especially during larger projects. This staple remover is a definite upgrade from typical models, its design really makes my job easier. I'm particularly impressed by how the removed staples stay on the device until I'm ready to dispose of them, a small but significant convenience.

Southwire Bmeh-18 Heavy Duty Electrician’s Hammer

Best Hammer-Style Staple Remover

You might not expect to see a hammer on a review of staple removers, but that’s exactly what this tool does. It is designed with electricians in mind, so it works best with large Nm-style staples that hold cabling and wires.

It has an extra-long neck with a drop-forged steel head. The handle is made of fiberglass to reduce vibrations and make it lightweight, and the head is smooth to minimize marks on surfaces.

While it is primarily an electrician’s tool, it lends itself to other heavy-duty fasteners like box staples found on shipping crates.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty construction with a drop-forged steel head.
  • Removes the heaviest-duty staples.
  • Smooth head that doesn’t mark surfaces.
  • Fiberglass handle for comfort and reduced vibration.

Cons

  • Mainly limited to Nm-style staples used in securing wires and cables.
  • This is an expensive tool compared to other staple removers.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 23.2
Dimensions (inches) 13.78 x 6.69 x 1.18
Type Hammer
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic No
Material Steel and fiberglass
Price $$$$$

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this staple remover has been nothing short of impressive. The tool's heavy-duty construction, coupled with its drop-forged steel head, ensures removal of the heaviest-duty staples. Its design, primarily intended for electricians, features an extra-long neck and a smooth head, which prevents marking surfaces. The handle, made of fiberglass, offers both comfort and reduced vibration, making it perfect for extensive use. However, its specialization for Nm-style staples and a higher price point compared to other staple removers might be a consideration for some users.

Crescent 11-Inch Nail and Staple Puller Tool

Best Plier-Style Heavy-Duty Staple Remover

This Bates nail puller is another multi-use tool. It is constructed from high-performance steel with a black-oxide coating, which means it lasts the distance and doesn’t rust. It removes nails, staples, and tacks, making it an ideal tool for the construction site.

It has a soft rubber grip for better control and a 7-inch cutting head. The plier’s teeth are designed for optimal grip and the curved roll bar for effortless removal. Couple that with the dual handles, and you get a superior grabbing action for the toughest staples.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty construction with a black-oxide-coated steel head.
  • Removes the heaviest-duty staples.
  • Curved roll bar for easy staple removal.
  • Dual handles with rubber coating for better grip.

Cons

  • Not suitable for removing all staples.
  • Better for heavy-duty staple removal.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 16
Dimensions (inches) 11 x 3.25 x 0.75
Type Pliers
Ergonomic design No
Magnetic No
Material Steel and rubber
Price $$$

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

First-Hand Impression

These nail pullers are a true workhorse when it comes to extracting stubborn nails and staples from pallets. It takes a bit of effort, which should be expected with any tool that's not a magic wand. The design details, like the tooth pattern that grips the nail securely, and the levering action that tightens the grip as you pull, are impressive. While the tool was stiff at the start, it loosened up after a few minutes of use, making it easy to operate single-handedly. Whether it's hardwood or soft pine, this tool has made nail removal significantly easier and has even saved me from destroying valuable wood.

C.S. Osborne 124 Upholstery Staple Remover

Best Heavy Duty Upholstery Staple Remover

When you want to restore Grandma’s prized antique chair, you need a tool specializing in upholstery. This quality item from C.S. Osborne is forged from alloy tempered steel for longevity and anti-rust qualities.

It has an easy-to-grip wooden handle, and the head has the correct angle to safely remove any staple, from the smallest to the long-legged varieties used in upholstery.

This is also an all-American company. These tools are constructed in New Jersey, so if buying American is your thing, this is the staple remover for you.

Pros

  • Alloy tempered steel construction for longevity.
  • American-made in New Jersey.
  • Removes all types of staples from small to long-legged varieties.
  • Easy-to-grip wooden handle.

Cons

  • Not as convenient to use as some staple removers.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 4
Dimensions (inches) 2 x 2 x 12
Type Blade
Ergonomic design No
Magnetic No
Material Alloy steel and wood
Price $$$

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

If you've got a daunting task of staple removal ahead, this staple puller is your best bet from my experience. Its sharp tip proves to be ideal for digging out stubborn staples but be careful as it can accidentally rip fabric. Despite being shorter than expected and lacking a bend at the bottom, this tool boasts of a quality craftsmanship that takes you back to an era of durable, simple, and effective tools.

Swingline Extra-Wide Staple Remover

Best Budget Heavy-Duty Staple Remover

This is the first tooth variety to feature. This model is extra-wide to handle various staple sizes. You get wider finger grips and durable steel jaws with a chrome finish and a sprung action.

This type of staple remover is the most commonly used and is the ideal tool for removing staples from paper and cardboard. The only thing to consider is that the spring wears out over time, but the price more than compensates for that.

Pros

  • Spring-loaded closing action for better control.
  • Tackles most types of staples from small to medium.
  • The amazing price makes this incredible value for money.
  • Large top and bottom teeth that grip and remove the staple with ease.

Cons

  • The spring wears out with prolonged use.
  • Not suitable for larger staples, so it could limit its use.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 1.6
Dimensions (inches) 1.5 x 2.6 x 1.1
Type Teeth
Ergonomic design No
Magnetic No
Material Steel, chrome and plastic
Price $

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

Bought this staple remover and it's been a real asset in my daily tasks. Not only does it efficiently remove staples from papers, but it also helps in managing my dogs' collar tags, saving my fingernails from unnecessary torture. Despite the lack of instructions, figuring out its operation was a breeze, thanks to a simple YouTube search. The design, resembling gnarly teeth, may be a tad intimidating but it's proven to be quite handy, even serving as a mini hammer in a pinch. However, I do wish it came in more vibrant color options and had some additional features, like a letter opener or tape dispenser.

Rack-A-Tiers 52455 Staple Shark Tool

Best Multi-Purpose Heavy-Duty Staple Remover

If you want a multi-use tool that you can slip into your pocket when you are done, this is the one. It removes staples of all sizes without damage to surfaces or wires, and it includes a handy nail puller and pry-bar for many different uses.

It even has a ruler for quick measurements and can double up as a carpenter’s square. And it even opens your bottle of beer at the end of a hard day’s work.

This is like the Swiss Army knife of the staple remover world. The only downside is it lacks any kind of ergonomic design and can be uncomfortable to use.

Pros

  • Multiple uses, including as a ruler and carpenter’s square.
  • It removes all types of staples and even has a nail puller and pry-bar.
  • Won’t damage wires or surfaces.
  • Made of hardened steel for longevity.

Cons

  • Lacks any form of ergonomic design.
  • Uncomfortable with prolonged use.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 4.8
Dimensions (inches) 5.5 x 9.5 x 2
Type Blade
Ergonomic design No
Magnetic No
Material Steel
Price $$

Our Ratings

Design
3.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

These staple pullers are a godsend for my remodel work, making it so much easier to remove old wiring staples from my 80-year-old house. I've even used it to get more leverage when pulling staples from deep within walls or tight floor joist spaces. On the downside, the steel feels a bit cheap and flimsy, which has me treating it more gently than I would like. While the price seems a bit high, the time and frustration it saves me makes it well worth the cost.

Swingline 37201 heavy-Duty Staple Remover

Best Heavy-Duty Ergonomic Staple Remover

This staple remover looks and feels different from the others. It has a superior ergonomic handle with a pronounced curve that protects your hand and fingers from fatigue. This model has a spring-loaded action with a sturdy base.

It has all-metal construction, so it will last the distance, and it feels like a quality object. The satin-chrome finish adds to the appeal, while the large handle increases the power output of the staple remover to tackle the biggest fasteners.

You even get a 1-year warranty to back up Swingline’s claims that this model is robust.

Pros

  • Ergonomic design includes a large curved top handle for increased power.
  • Spring-loaded action makes staple removal easier.
  • All-metal construction for longevity.
  • Attractive design with a satin-chrome finish.
  • Comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Cons

  • The blade is too thick for some applications.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 5.2
Dimensions (inches) 5.6 x 3.3 x 2.1
Type Blade
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic No
Material Steel
Price $$

Our Ratings

Design
4.5 / 5
Material Quality
4.5 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

From the moment I started using this Swingline staple remover, I felt a significant difference in my staple-removing tasks. Whether it was pulling up old carpet staples lodged in hardwood, or removing smaller staples from stacks of paper, this tool handled it all. The chrome-plated, steel construct is robust and it easily lifts out staples up to 3/4" without strain. However, it can occasionally break staples embedded in hardwood, which may require a little extra effort with pliers. Using it for the first time may require some getting used to, as the handle can be a bit slippery if you don't grip it right. Despite the initial learning curve, the ease it brought to my otherwise tedious and hand-cramping staple-removing tasks was undeniable.

Vercca Heavy Duty Construction Staple Remover

Best Heavy Duty Construction Staple Remover

This a 2-part kit containing a heavy-duty staple remover and a tack puller. If you work in construction, upholstery, and the carpentry business, this is the ideal set. The staple remover easily gets rid of fasteners from wood, plastic, wooden floors and a host of other surfaces.

Also, the tack puller will remove tacks and staples from upholstery and carpets, as well as wooden joists. You get an ergonomic design with a non-slip handle, as well as a lightweight design.

Constructed from durable hardened steel and plastic handles for comfort and grip to protect your hands from undue stresses and strains.

Pros

  • Comes as a 2-part set that contains the staple remover and tack remover.
  • Made from durable hardened steel and a plastic handle for comfort and control.
  • Removes staples and tacks from wood, plastic, material and wooden floors.
  • For a 2-piece set, this is incredible value for money.

Cons

  • The blade is a rectangular design, which might not suit all staples.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 5.8
Dimensions (inches) 10.3 x 2.3 x 1.2
Type Blade
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic No
Material Steel
Price $

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

My experience with these tools was nothing short of remarkable. Pulling up a carpet with an abundance of staples used to be a daunting task, but these tools simplified it greatly. Reupholstering furniture became a breeze, even when dealing with stubborn staples and button tacks. I found the tools to be durable, effective, and easy to use, especially the one with the orange grip. These tools saved me from countless potential puncture wounds and a lot of frustration, making them well worth the investment.

CocoX Heavy Duty Construction Staple Remover

Best Heavy-Duty Floor Staple Remover

This is another 2-piece kit, much like the Vercca. You get a steel staple remover with a molded plastic-coated handle for comfort and grip, as well as a heavy-duty tack and staple remover.

The CocoX specializes in removing fasteners from wooden floors and carpets, so when you want to rip out the old floor covering, this is the tool to use. It has an ergonomic design with increased leverage features for easier removal and a smooth head to leave no marks.

It also excels at removing staples from furniture, picture frames, wooden cartons and drywall.

Pros

  • Comes as a 2-part set that contains the staple remover and tack remover.
  • Increased leverage feature makes staple removal easier.
  • Ergonomic design for comfort and grip.
  • Amazing value for money considering this is a 2-piece set.

Cons

  • The rounded tip struggles to slide under some staples.

Product Specs

Weight (ounces) 5.8
Dimensions (inches) 9.88 x 6.69 x 3.07
Type Blade
Ergonomic design Yes
Magnetic No
Material Steel
Price $

Our Ratings

Design
4 / 5
Material Quality
4 / 5
Removal Efficiency
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

Bought this staple remover for a reupholstering task, and found it to be a solid, effective tool. Initially, I was skeptical about its abilities, but it proved to be a time-saver, significantly outperforming a standard screwdriver I had been using previously. It worked wonders on deep-set staples, but unfortunately, the red-handled one didn't withstand the test of time, breaking after handling just five staples. The yellow tool, while robust, struggled with space constraints, proving too thick to slide under close-set staples. So, while these tools have their merits, they aren't all-purpose solutions - they struggled with small staples and nails.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight Dimensions Type Ergonomic design Magnetic Material Price
MROCO Staple Remover Best Carpet Staple Remover 3.87 oz 6.89 x 1.02 x 1.69″ Blade Yes No Stainless steel & rubber $$$
Ktrio Magnetic Staple Remover Best Magnetic 0.704 oz 0.67″ x 0.71″ x 6.06″ Blade Yes Yes Steel & plastic $
Southwire Bmeh-18 Electrician’s Hammer Best Hammer-Style 23.2 oz 13.78″ x 6.69″ x 1.18″ Hammer Yes No Steel & fiberglass $$$$$
Crescent 11-Inch Nail and Staple Puller Tool Best Plier-Style 16 oz 11″ x 3.25″ x 0.75″ Pliers No No Steel & rubber $$$
C.S. Osborne 124 Upholstery Staple Remover Best Upholstery Staple Remover 4 oz 2″ x 2″ x 12″ Blade No No Alloy Steel & wood $$$
Swingline Extra-Wide Staple Remover Best Budget 1.6 oz 1.5″ x 2.6″ x 1.1″ Teeth No No Steel, chrome & plastic $
Rack-A-Tiers 52455 Staple Shark Tool Best Multi-Purpose 4.8 oz 5.5″ x 9.5″ x 2″ Blade No No Steel $$
Swingline 37201 heavy-Duty Staple Remover Best Ergonomic 5.2 oz 5.6″ x 3.3″ x 2.1″ Blade Yes No Steel $$
Vercca Heavy Duty Construction Staple Remover Best Construction Staple Remover 5.8 oz 10.3″ x 2.3″ x 1.2″ Blade Yes No Steel $
CocoX Heavy Duty Construction Staple Remover Best Floor Staple Remover 5.8 oz 9.88″ x 6.69″ x 3.07″ Blade Yes No Steel $

Types of Heavy-Duty Staple Removers

Staple removers come in two main varieties: teeth and blade. Each does the same thing, but is one better than the other?

Teeth

Teeth staple removers are the most common variety in use up and down the land. You see them in stationery sets and commercial settings everywhere. They look like a set of top and bottom fangs and operate by sliding the teeth under the staple and lifting it free.

The mechanism is spring-loaded, so you need to squeeze the teeth together. This makes it useful for removing almost every type of staple there is, even the heavy-duty box staples you find in shipping boxes.

Blade

This staple remover looks more like a knife, although the design does vary between makes and models. Simply slide the blade under the bar of the staple, and it lifts it out with little effort.

The advantage with blade staple removers is they require almost no effort to get the staples out, and in the main, they are cheaper.

How To Choose the Best Heavy Duty Staple Removers

Finding the best heavy-duty staple remover takes research and time. Here are a few pointers to set you on the right path.

Types of Staples

Some staple removers, like teeth models, are better at lifting out heavy-duty fasteners like brass box staples. The blade variety is better at pulling up general staples like the ones used in paper and cardboard.

Types of Handles

How does the staple remover feel in your hand? Is it comfortable to hold, and does the handle match the contours of your palm and fingers? Do you need to squeeze the handle to get it to operate, or does it slide and lift?

The type of handle adds to the convenience and comfort of the user.

Is It Magnetic?

Staples are small and fiddly, so when they lift out, they can be difficult to find if you drop them. A magnetic staple remover stops this from happening, making it easier for you to collect them up.

Type of Staple Remover

We’ve already said about the different kinds of staple removers, so you need to decide which is the best fit for you. It comes down to the type of staples you expect to remove, the cost, and which is the most comfortable to use.

Teeth varieties use a spring action, and over time the spring can wear out and break. You get no such problems with a blade model.


How Do You Remove Heavy Duty Staples?

For teeth staple removers, hold the teeth over the staple bar with the staple remover extended out. Squeeze the sides together, taking care to slide the top and bottom teeth under the staple bar.

As you squeeze it shut, the contours of the teeth grab the staple to lift it out.

For a bladed staple remover, slide the tip of the blade under the staple bar and press down. The staple lifts out.

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Headshot of Mark Weir

About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.