Best Rubber Cement of 2025

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Rubber cement is a versatile adhesive that is commonly used for crafting and school projects. It is made from natural or synthetic rubber and is known for its strong bonding properties. Rubber cement is ideal for attaching paper, cardboard, and other lightweight materials to each other or to a surface. It dries clear and can be easily removed or repositioned before it sets. It is also commonly used in the construction industry for sealing and filling gaps. Rubber cement is a must-have in any DIY enthusiast's toolbox.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator Cover #TOP 1
Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Elmer's Repositionable Rubber Cement 4 oz Cover #TOP 2
Elmer's Repositionable Rubber Cement 4 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Elmer's No-Wrinkle Rubber Cement 4 Oz Cover #TOP 3
Elmer's No-Wrinkle Rubber Cement 4 Oz
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Rubber Cement

#TOP 1

Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator

107008
Clear
4 fl oz( Pack of 2)
Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator Cover
Gorilla Rubber Cement with Brush Applicator, 4 Fl oz, Clear, (Pack of 2)

Gorilla Rubber Cement is a versatile adhesive that is perfect for various crafting projects. Its non-wrinkling and non-yellowing formula ensures that your projects stay looking pristine. With its flexible and repositionable bond, you can easily adjust your work as needed. The integrated brush allows for quick and effortless application, saving you time and effort. Whether you're working with paper, fabric, foamboard, or photos, Gorilla Rubber Cement provides a smooth and clean finish. Its crystal-clear drying ensures that your projects look professional. Create your masterpiece with ease using Gorilla Rubber Cement.

What We Like
Easy to use bottle
Quick drying time
Strong adhesive strength
Good value for money
Simple cleanup
What We Don't Like
Slight yellowing after drying
Inconsistent consistency reported
#TOP 2

Elmer's Repositionable Rubber Cement 4 oz

UN0912NUE904UN0912NU
Clear
Elmer's Repositionable Rubber Cement 4 oz Cover
Rubber Cement, Repositionable, 4 oz, Sold as 1 Each

Elmer's Rubber Cement is perfect for your crafting needs, especially when you require precise placement. This repositionable adhesive allows you to adjust your projects easily, ensuring everything is just right. It is acid-free and photo-safe, meaning it won't damage your valuable pictures or wrinkle paper. Additionally, the natural rubber formula spreads smoothly and dries clear, providing a clean finish to your work. With these features, you can confidently create without worrying about damaging your materials or making permanent mistakes.

What We Like
Reliable brand reputation
Effective for various projects
Easy application with brush tip
Good for craft and repair
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent product quality
Delivery delays reported
#TOP 3

Elmer's No-Wrinkle Rubber Cement 4 Oz

635909170402
Clear
Elmer's No-Wrinkle Rubber Cement 4 Oz Cover
Elmer's No-Wrinkle Rubber Cement, Acid-Free, 4 Oz Bottle, Pack of 4

Elmer's Rubber Cement is an excellent choice for your photo projects and detailed crafts. Its unique formula allows you to reposition items, ensuring precise placement every time. You won't have to worry about messy excess glue, as it rubs off easily and dries without any wrinkles. This acid-free and photo-safe rubber cement spreads smoothly and dries clear, making it perfect for preserving your memories without damaging your photos. Whether you're working on a scrapbook or a school project, this rubber cement offers you the convenience and reliability you need.

What We Like
Easy to remove excess glue
Versatile for various projects
Great for kids' art
Reliable for paper bonding
Quality and effectiveness
What We Don't Like
Odd packaging for delivery
#TOP 4

Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement

Slime
1051-A
White
1 Ounce
Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement Cover
Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement, Tire Repair, use Plugs or Patches, 1 oz. Tube

The Slime Rubber Cement is a 1 oz. adhesive that can be used in conjunction with a Slime plug or patch kit for a complete repair. With its no mess squeeze tube, applying the rubber cement is a breeze. Whether you need to fix a punctured tire or repair a leaky inflatable, this rubber cement is a reliable solution. The compact size of the 1 oz. tube makes it convenient to carry with you on the go, ensuring that you can quickly address any repair needs. Additionally, this product is not available for sale in Catalina Island.

What We Like
Easy to use applicator
Economical for multiple patches
Effective for various punctures
Durable patches with proper application
What We Don't Like
Potential color mismatch when dry
#TOP 5

Elmer's Clear Rubber Cement 4oz

758399394995
Clear
3 Packs of 4 Ounce
Elmer's Clear Rubber Cement 4oz Cover
Elmer's Wrinkle Rubber Cement, Clear, Brush Applicator, 4 Ounce (3 Pack)

Elmer's Rubber Cement is an excellent choice for your photo projects and intricate cut-and-paste tasks. Its unique formula ensures that it dries without causing wrinkles, giving your work a polished look. You can easily clean off any excess, making your crafting experience mess-free and enjoyable. The convenient brush applicator allows for precise application, so you can target small areas without any hassle. Plus, it is acid-free and safe for photos, ensuring your cherished memories remain intact. This makes it a reliable option for both casual crafters and serious hobbyists alike.

What We Like
Durable and reliable adhesion
Quick-drying formula
Easy to apply and clean
Minimal odor
What We Don't Like
Brush tool could be better
Thickens quickly if left open
#TOP 6

Best-Test Rubber Cement 4OZ Jar

Clear
Best-Test Rubber Cement 4OZ Jar Cover
Best-Test Rubber Cement 4OZ Jar

Best-Test Rubber Cement is a high-quality adhesive designed for office and school use. This versatile product is perfect for both temporary and permanent bonding of paper products. Whether you need to mount posters, create collages, or work on scrapbooking projects, this rubber cement is the ideal choice. One of its standout features is that it won't shrink, wrinkle, or curl paper, ensuring a smooth and professional finish. With its convenient 4 oz can and included brush, applying the cement is a breeze. Trust Best-Test Rubber Cement to provide reliable adhesion without any hassle.

What We Like
Made in USA
Removable adhesive
Dries quickly
Reliable for photographs
Useful in various applications
What We Don't Like
Thin applicator
Cap may not open
#TOP 7

Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement Pack

Slime
1000041
White
Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement Pack Cover
Slime 1051-A Rubber Cement - 1 oz, Pack of 3

Slime Rubber Cement is a versatile adhesive that dries clear, making it perfect for all your crafting needs. With its quick-drying formula, you can easily tackle multiple projects without waiting around. This rubber cement forms a strong and durable bond, ensuring that your creations hold up over time. Plus, it comes in convenient 1 oz tubes, making it easy to store and transport. Whether you're working on school projects, home crafts, or hobbies, this pack of three tubes offers the reliability you need to get the job done.

What We Like
Quick puncture repairs
Large tube size
Effective for tire plugs
Essential for tire patch kits
What We Don't Like
Glue has a short shelf life
#TOP 8

Best-Test One Coat Rubber Cement 32 oz

Best-Test
Clear
Best-Test One Coat Rubber Cement 32 oz Cover
Best-Test One Coat Rubber Cement 32OZ Can

The Best-Test Rubber Cement is perfect for both commercial and fine art projects. It allows you to hold your artwork in place while still giving you the flexibility to reposition it whenever necessary. You can easily peel your work off and place it down again multiple times without any hassle. This adhesive is fast, clean, and user-friendly, making it an ideal choice for artists and crafters alike. With a convenient 32 oz can, you'll have plenty of cement to tackle your creative endeavors.

What We Like
Metal cap seals better
Long-standing user satisfaction
Versatile for many uses
Best rubber cement available
What We Don't Like
Did not meet expectations
#TOP 9

Best-Test Rubber Cement 8OZ Jar

Best-Test Rubber Cement 8OZ Jar Cover
Best-Test Rubber Cement 8OZ Jar

Best-Test Rubber Cement 8OZ Jar is an office and school-friendly product that is perfect for mounting, collage, scrapbooking, and more. It won't shrink, wrinkle, or curl paper, making it ideal for temporary and permanent bonding of paper products. The 8 oz can comes with a brush to make application easy.

What We Like
Easy application
Good for repositioning pieces
Recommended by art professor
Less messy than expected
What We Don't Like
May curve latex material
Attachment strength may vary
#TOP 10

Marabu Fixogum Rubber Cement 125g

MR290117000
Clear
Marabu Fixogum Rubber Cement 125g Cover
Marabu Fixogum Rubber Cement - 125g Tube

Marabu Rubber Cement is a versatile adhesive that offers flexibility and strength for all your crafting needs. You can apply it to both surfaces for a strong hold, or just one side for easy removal, making it perfect for projects where adjustments are needed. This rubber-based glue is ideal for card making, scrapbooking, and model construction, providing a reliable bond that won’t damage your materials. Plus, any excess glue can be easily wiped away with your finger, keeping your workspace tidy and your projects looking professional.

What We Like
Flexible and strong bond
Easy to remove
Ideal for various crafts
Tidy application
What We Don't Like
Price might be high
Some residue on thin paper
Buying Guide Image

The Complete Guide to Buying Rubber Cement

Introduction

Rubber cement is a popular adhesive used in a variety of applications, from crafts and DIY projects to professional graphic design and bookbinding. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right rubber cement for your needs. In this article, we will discuss some key factors to consider when selecting rubber cement, as well as provide some recommendations for different types of applications.

Types of Rubber Cement

One of the first things to consider when choosing rubber cement is the type of rubber cement. There are two main types: natural rubber cement and synthetic rubber cement.

Natural rubber cement is made from the sap of the rubber tree, which is then mixed with solvents to create a sticky, flexible adhesive. This type of rubber cement is known for its strong bond and water-resistance, making it ideal for outdoor or aquatic applications.

Synthetic rubber cement, on the other hand, is made from synthetic polymers and is known for its quick-drying properties and ability to bond to a wide range of materials. This type of rubber cement is commonly used in graphic design and bookbinding, as it allows for easy repositioning of materials before the glue sets.

Solvent Type

Another factor to consider when choosing rubber cement is the solvent type. Rubber cement is available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas.

Water-based rubber cement is non-toxic and easy to clean up with soap and water. It is a good option for crafts and other applications where toxicity or strong odors are a concern. However, water-based rubber cement is not as strong as solvent-based formulas and may not be suitable for heavy-duty applications.

Solvent-based rubber cement, on the other hand, is known for its strong bonding power and resistance to water and other liquids. This type of rubber cement is ideal for outdoor or aquatic applications, as well as for heavy-duty projects. However, solvent-based rubber cement can be toxic and may have a strong odor, so it is important to use it in a well-ventilated area.

Drying Time

The drying time of rubber cement is another important factor to consider when choosing the right adhesive for your project. Some rubber cements dry quickly, allowing you to move on to the next step of your project in a matter of minutes. Other rubber cements may take longer to dry, giving you more time to adjust and reposition materials before the glue sets.

Quick-drying rubber cement is ideal for applications where speed is a factor, such as in graphic design or bookbinding. Slow-drying rubber cement, on the other hand, is better for crafts and other projects where you need more time to adjust and position materials.

Recommendations

Based on the factors discussed above, here are some recommendations for different types of applications:

  • For outdoor or aquatic applications, we recommend using a natural rubber cement with a solvent-based formula for maximum bonding power and water-resistance.
  • For graphic design and bookbinding, we recommend using a synthetic rubber cement with a quick-drying formula for easy repositioning of materials.
  • For crafts and other applications where toxicity or strong odors are a concern, we recommend using a water-based rubber cement with a slow-drying formula for more time to adjust and position materials.

Conclusion

Choosing the right rubber cement for your project can make all the difference in the final result. By considering the type of rubber cement, solvent type, and drying time, you can select the best adhesive for your needs and achieve professional-quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is rubber cement used for?

Rubber cement is commonly used as a marking fluid in erasable pens and for paste-up work where excess cement may need to be removed without damaging the paper or leaving adhesive residue. It is designed to peel easily or rub off.

2. How strong is Elmer's rubber cement?

Elmer's rubber cement is known for its strength and tackiness. It is strong enough to hold together various objects, making it suitable for both heavy-duty jobs and craft projects. It has a bit of flex to withstand stress.

3. What will rubber cement bond?

Rubber cement can bond materials such as paper, rubber, EVA, polyurethane (PU) sheets, cork, and plastazote. It creates a temporarily adjustable bond, making it useful for holding pieces in place for sewing or other situations where readjustment may be needed.

4. Is Gorilla glue rubber cement waterproof?

Gorilla Fabric Glue, which is a type of Gorilla glue, is 100% waterproof. However, it is not specifically referred to as rubber cement.

5. Does rubber cement harden?

Rubber cement is made from rubber liquefied with chemical solvents. It dries as the solvents evaporate, forming a thin solid layer. It is primarily used for gluing various types of paper products together.

6. How permanent is rubber cement?

Rubber cement creates a temporarily adjustable bond. It holds pieces in place, making it suitable for sewing or situations where readjustment may be required. The adhesion becomes more permanent after a few hours.

7. Does rubber cement dry rubbery?

Rubber cement does not fully cure and remains tacky and rubbery after drying. The solvent evaporates, leaving behind a layer of tacky glue polymers that bond well to other surfaces when mated.

8. Can rubber cement stop a leak?

While tire plug kits often come with rubber cement, it is primarily used as a lubricant during installation and does not add value in sealing punctures.

Editor's Notes

During our rubber cement research, we found 24 rubber cement products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 34,918 customer reviews through our big data system to write the rubber cement list. We found that most customers choose rubber cement with an average price of $17.33.

The rubber cement are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of rubber cement, including Gorilla, Elmer's, Slime, Speedball, Best-Test. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Rubber Cement Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Gorilla Elmer's Elmer's Slime Elmer's Speedball Slime Best-Test Best Nest Wellness Marabu
Material Solvent Rubber Rubber - Rubber Natural Rubber Rubber Rubber Paper,Rubber Rubber
Compatible Material Paper,crafting,rubber Paper, Rubber Rubber - Rubber Paper, Rubber Rubber Rubber Paper, Rubber Cardboard, Paper, Rubber
Specific Uses For Product [INFERRED: Arts, Crafts, Possible Home Repair] Art, Craft Art - Art, School School Repair Art Art, School -
Item Form Gel Paste Paste - Paste Jar Liquid, Paste Liquid 8oz -
Color - Clear - - - Clear White Clear Clear Clear
Item Package Quantity - 1 - - - 1 3 1 1 1
Package Information - Tube - - - Jar Tube Can Jar Tube
Unit Count - 4.0 Ounce - - - 4.0 Ounce 3 Fluid Ounces 32.0 Ounce 8.0 Fluid Ounces 4.41 Ounce
Item Weight - 4.2 ounces - - - 0.64 ounces 0.01 ounces 1.75 pounds 1.28 ounces 4.6 ounces
Special Feature - Acid-free,Dries Clear,Repositionable - - - Acid-free Strong & Clear Drying Acid-free Acid-free -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
Where to Buy