A staple remover is a device that allows for the quick removal of a staple from a material without causing damage. Although a simple metal wedge can be used, this method tends to tear fragile papers. For light gauge staples, many people instead use a device consisting of two opposing wedges on a pivot. For convenience, this device has a spring that returns it to the open position after use.

Proper use of the opposing wedge staple remover should also be noted. Staples should be removed via the flat, top side of the staple, not the back "curled" side of the staple. This can however often result in ripping of some paper, so some prefer to loosen the staple via the "curled" side before proceeding to the front flat side for easy removal.

Some staplers, mainly small ones that are about 1.5 inches long contain an integrated staple remover. This is basically a piece of metal that is slid under each "curled" side of the staple and turned to loosen the staple.

See also

• Stapler, the device that inserts staples

Mechanical hand tools