Best Glue Sticks of 2026

Ann Hale Avatar
Ann Hale
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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Glue sticks are a versatile and easy-to-use adhesive solution that can be found in every home, classroom, and office. These handy little sticks are perfect for all kinds of projects, from scrapbooking and crafting, to school assignments and office work. They are mess-free, non-toxic, and dry clear, making them a great choice for kids and adults alike. Glue sticks come in a range of sizes and strengths, so whether you need to stick paper, card, fabric, or even wood, there is a glue stick out there that will do the job. So next time you need to stick something together, reach for a glue stick and get sticking!

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics Purple Washable Glue Sticks Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Purple Washable Glue Sticks
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 30 Count Cover #TOP 2
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 30 Count
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks Cover #TOP 3
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Glue Sticks

Amazon Basics Purple Washable Glue Sticks

Amazon Basics
DP7-30
Purple
30-Pack
Amazon Basics Purple Washable Glue Sticks Cover
Amazon Basics Purple Washable School Glue Sticks, Dries Clear, 0.24-oz Stick, 30-Pack

The Amazon Basics Glue Sticks come in a vibrant purple color and dry clear, making them perfect for various projects. With 30 sticks in a pack, you can effectively bond items like paper, photos, and fabric without worry. The non-toxic formula ensures safety for school, home, and arts and crafts. Cleanup is a breeze, as these glue sticks wash off easily from hands and clothes. Enjoy the convenience of a reliable adhesive that is both effective and safe for all your creative needs.

What We Like
Affordable bulk pricing
Strong adhesion
Easy to apply
Purple color for visibility
Great for crafts and school
What We Don't Like
Packaging not fully break-proof
Dries quickly on some surfaces
#TOP 2

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 30 Count

E555
Standard Stick
30 Count, 7g sticks
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 30 Count Cover
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, Washable, 7 Grams, 30 Count - Poster, Vision Board, Back to School, Bulk Pack for Classrooms, #1 Teacher Brand

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks are perfect for younger learners, crafting, poster presentations, and more. The glue dries clear and applies smoothly for a mess-free appearance. Kids can easily see where the glue is due to the disappearing purple formula. The washable, non-toxic, and acid-free formula is fantastic for classrooms and homes. The package includes thirty 0.24-ounce (7-gram) Elmer's craft glue sticks.

What We Like
Easy application for kids
Dries clear, no mess
Washable and safe
Bulk value pack
Trusted brand quality
What We Don't Like
Packaging may arrive damaged
#TOP 3

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks

E1559
Purple
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks Cover
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, Washable, 6 Grams, 12 Count - Poster, Vision Board, Back to School, #1 Teacher Brand

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks are perfect for bonding paper, cardboard, foam board, display board, and more. The glue applies smoothly without clumps, goes on purple and dries clear, and is washable, non-toxic, acid-free, and photo safe. It is also colored pencil compatible, making it great for arts, crafts, and school projects.

What We Like
Purple application, dries clear
Strong adhesive quality
Mess-free, easy to use
Great value pack
Non-toxic and washable
What We Don't Like
Disappearing feature not critical
#TOP 4

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks

E562
Purple
3 Count (Pack of 1)
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks Cover
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, Washable, 22 Grams, 3 Count - Poster, Vision Board, Back to School Supplies, #1 Teacher Brand

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks are ideal for classrooms as it features a disappearing purple formula, that helps kids see where the glue is, and a safe, acid-free and non-toxic formula. The giant size ensures hours of art and school projects. It applies smoothly and dries clear, ensuring a mess-free appearance.

What We Like
Visible purple application
Dries clear and clean
Washable and non-toxic
Strong, reliable adhesion
Mess-free and easy to use
What We Don't Like
Occasional drying out in tube
#TOP 5

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 60 Count

E503
Standard Stick
60 Count, 7g sticks
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 60 Count Cover
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, Washable, 7 Grams, 60 Count - Poster, Vision Board, Back to School Supplies, #1 Teacher Brand

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks are a must-have for classrooms and homes. The disappearing purple formula helps kids see where the glue is applied, while the washable and non-toxic feature makes it perfect for younger learners. It dries clear and applies smoothly for a mess-free appearance, making it ideal for crafting, poster presentations, and more. With 60 0.24-ounce (7-gram) craft glue sticks, it's the #1 teacher brand.

What We Like
Easy-to-see purple application
Dries clear and mess-free
Kid-friendly and washable
Bulk pack value
Reliable adhesive performance
What We Don't Like
Occasional damaged packaging
#TOP 6

Elmer's All Purpose Glue Sticks 0.21oz 4-Pack

E5006
White
4-Pack
Elmer's All Purpose Glue Sticks 0.21oz 4-Pack Cover
Elmer's All Purpose Glue Sticks, 0.21 Ounce, 4 Count

Elmer's Glue Sticks are perfect for sticking paper, cardboard, foam board, and more, making your crafting or office projects easier. They are simple to use and wash off easily with just soap and water, so you don’t have to worry about messy hands or surfaces. The glue dries quickly and leaves no color behind, helping your work look neat and clean. Plus, it’s safe to use around photos and won’t harm them, so you can confidently use it for scrapbooking or school projects. This glue stick gives you a reliable, quick, and safe adhesive option for everyday use.

What We Like
Strong adhesive quality
Trusted Elmer's brand
Value multi-pack pricing
Good for crafts and scrapbooking
Protective tight-fitting lids
What We Don't Like
Lids difficult to remove
Smaller size runs out quickly
#TOP 7

Scotch Wrinkle-Free Glue Stick

6008WF-2
['Transparent']
2-Pack
Scotch Wrinkle-Free Glue Stick Cover
Scotch Wrinkle-Free Glue Sticks, 2 Pack, .27 oz Each

Scotch Glue Stick is a patent-pending clear formula that strongly bonds most papers and photos without clumping or wrinkling. This makes your projects look more professional. The tube is clear, allowing you to see when the glue level is low, and the choke-resistant cap is designed for safety. Additionally, this glue stick is both acid-free and photo-safe, making it perfect for craft projects. With two glue sticks in each package, you'll always have a spare when you need it. Scotch Glue Stick is a reliable and convenient choice for all your crafting needs.

What We Like
Strong adhesive power
Wrinkle-free application
Smooth and easy to use
Works on various paper types
Clear, non-lingering scent
What We Don't Like
Thin stick size
Glue on tube rim
#TOP 8

Avery White Glue Stick, 3pk (00164)

00164
White
0.26oz
Avery White Glue Stick, 3pk (00164) Cover
Avery Glue Stick White, Washable, 0.26 oz. Permanent Glue Stic, 3pk (00164)

The Avery White Glue Stick is perfect for school projects, arts & crafts, and scrapbooks. It goes on smoothly without clumping or wrinkling and bonds properly to a variety of surfaces including paper, photos, cardboard, foam board, fabric, and glass. It is strong and permanent, yet washes easily off hands and clothing. In addition, it is safe for children, being nontoxic, acid-free, ACMI certified, and conforming to ASTM D 4236 regulations.

What We Like
Strong, reliable adhesion
Nontoxic and washable
Dries clear, no residue
Easy, smooth application
Compact, long-lasting design
What We Don't Like
Cap may loosen easily
May tear very thin paper
#TOP 9

Amazon Basics Purple Washable School Glue Sticks, 60-Pack

Amazon Basics
DP7-60
Purple
60-Pack
Amazon Basics Purple Washable School Glue Sticks, 60-Pack Cover
Amazon Basics Purple Washable School Glue Sticks, Dries Clear, Non-Toxic, 0.24-oz Stick, 60-Pack

Get 60 sticks of safe and non-toxic purple school glue that effectively adheres paper, photos, and fabric together. The glue dries clear and easily washes away from hands and clothes, making clean up quick and easy. It's ideal for school, home, and arts and crafts projects.

What We Like
Budget-friendly bulk pack
Strong, reliable adhesion
Purple color for easy application
Easy to wash out
Great for crafts and school
What We Don't Like
Dries a little quickly
Packing can arrive damaged
#TOP 10

Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks (E520), 6-Pack

E520
Clear,Purple
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks (E520), 6-Pack Cover
Elmer's Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks, 0.21 oz Each, 2-3 Packs (E520)

The Elmer's Purple Glue Sticks come in a convenient 6-pack, giving you plenty of glue for all your projects. These sticks start purple, so you can easily see where you've applied the glue, which helps prevent missing spots. Once dry, the glue turns clear, leaving a neat finish without any visible residue. The glue goes on smoothly, making it simple to spread without clumps or mess. Plus, it's safe for photos, non-toxic, and free of acids, so you can use it confidently on various materials without worry.

What We Like
Visible application color
Dries clear
Smooth application
Non-toxic and safe
Photo safe and acid free
Buying Guide Image

Choosing the Best Glue Sticks for Your Lifestyle

Introduction

When it comes to sticking things together, glue sticks are a tried and true tool. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we'll delve into the various factors you should consider when selecting a glue stick, including the type of material you'll be bonding, the strength of the adhesive, and any specific features or requirements you may have. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of what to look for in a glue stick and be able to make an informed decision.

Types of Glue Sticks

The first thing to consider when choosing a glue stick is the type of material you'll be bonding. Different glue sticks are formulated to work best on specific materials, so it's important to select one that is suitable for your needs. Here are a few common types of glue sticks:

  • Paper glue sticks are designed specifically for bonding paper products, such as cardstock, envelopes, and notebooks. They often have a lower level of tack, meaning they won't leave behind a strong residue or cause the paper to wrinkle.
  • Fabric glue sticks are formulated to bond fabrics, such as cotton, silk, and synthetic materials. They can be used for hemming, mending, and attaching embellishments to clothing and accessories.
  • Multi-purpose glue sticks are designed to work on a wide range of materials, including paper, cardboard, fabric, and foam. They often have a medium level of tack and can be used for a variety of projects.
  • Heavy-duty glue sticks are formulated to bond tougher materials, such as metal, wood, and plastic. They have a strong level of tack and are ideal for projects that require a lot of strength and durability.

Strength of Adhesive

Another factor to consider when choosing a glue stick is the strength of the adhesive. Different glue sticks have different levels of tack, or stickiness, which can range from low to high. Here's a breakdown of the different levels of tack:

  • Low tack glue sticks are ideal for bonding materials that are prone to wrinkling, such as paper and thin fabrics. They have a weaker bond but are less likely to cause damage to delicate materials.
  • Medium tack glue sticks are suitable for a wide range of materials and are a good all-purpose option. They have a moderate level of stickiness and can be used for a variety of projects.
  • High tack glue sticks are ideal for bonding tougher materials, such as wood, metal, and plastic. They have a strong bond and are great for projects that require a lot of strength and durability.

Special Features

In addition to the type of material and strength of adhesive, there are a few other features to consider when selecting a glue stick. Here are a few common ones:

  • Washable glue sticks are formulated to be easily removed from clothing and surfaces, making them a good choice for projects that may come into contact with water or other liquids.
  • Non-toxic glue sticks are safe for use around children and pets and are a good option for projects that involve food or other consumables.
  • Clear drying glue sticks dry clear, making them a good choice for projects where a visible bond is undesirable.
  • Fast drying glue sticks set quickly, which can be helpful for projects that require a fast turnaround time.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a glue stick, there are a plethora of factors to consider. By taking into account the type of material you'll be bonding, the strength of the adhesive you need, and any special features or requirements you may have, you'll be able to find the right glue stick for your project. Don't be afraid to experiment with different options to see which one works best for you. With a little bit of research and some trial and error, you'll be well on your way to sticking things together with confidence and ease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is glue stick or liquid glue better?

The choice between glue stick and liquid glue depends on the specific use. Liquid glue is versatile and can be watered down for brush application. It is ideal for repairing objects and provides a strong bond. On the other hand, a glue stick is better for paper crafts as it prevents wrinkling and allows for smoother application.

2. Are all glue sticks the same strength?

No, the strength of a bond with glue sticks can vary. It depends on factors like the amount of adhesive applied and the rate of load at different temperatures. Applying a larger amount of adhesive covers a larger surface area and can increase overall strength.

3. How long does it take a glue stick to dry?

Glue sticks typically have a dry time of about 2-5 minutes, which can vary based on ambient temperature and humidity. Due to the quick drying time, glue sticks are best suited for small surfaces that can be covered quickly, rather than large surface areas.

Editor's Notes

During our glue stick research, we found 25 glue stick products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 650,561 customer reviews through our big data system to write the glue sticks list. We found that most customers choose glue sticks with an average price of $6.11.

The glue sticks are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of glue sticks, including Elmer's, Scotch, Avery. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ann Hale Avatar

Ann Hale is a seamstress, pattern maker, and fashion designer with extensive sewing experience. She has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years now after receiving Associates's Degree in fashion design in 2010. Also as a writer, she has many creative and unique insights when it comes to articles.

Glue Sticks Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics Elmer's Elmer's Elmer's Elmer's Elmer's Scotch Avery Amazon Basics Elmer's
Material glue plastic natrual Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA) plastic Paper Blend Glue Paper
Item Form Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick Stick
Special Feature Dries Clear Non Toxic, Washable Dries Clear, Repositionable, Strong, Washable Acid-free,Dries Clear,Washable Disappearing Purple Strong, Washable Strong, fast-bonding, and no mess Washable Dries Clear Dries Clear, Washable
Specific Uses For Product School Craft, School Craft, School Craft, School Craft, School - Glue Sticks & Tubes School School Craft, School
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
Where to Buy