If a different screwdriver doesn’t catch, then stop trying to use it so you don’t damage the screw even more. If you’re using a screwdriver bit in a drill, then try unscrewing with the next largest bit size to try getting a better grip.

If the screw still doesn’t budge, try using a screwdriver with a slightly larger head so it catches better. Rubber bands also provide a non-slip surface so your screwdriver doesn’t move around on the stripped screw.

The tape fills in some of the gap between the screw and your screwdriver so it has a better grip. Alternatively, try placing steel wool over the screw head and firmly pressing your screwdriver into the slot to get better traction.

Try filing the sides of the screw so they’re a little flatter so your pliers don’t slip off as easily.

If you’re trying to remove a rusty screw that’s stripped, try spraying a rust penetrant before tapping the screwdriver to help break apart the corrosion. [7] X Research source {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/8/8b/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-5Bullet1. jpg/v4-460px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-5Bullet1. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/8/8b/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-5Bullet1. jpg/v4-728px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-5Bullet1. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U. S. and international copyright laws. This image is not</b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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You could also try using an abrasive powder like salt or sand to prevent your screwdriver from slipping.

Avoid using a right-handed drill bit since it won’t properly catch on the screw head.

Screw extractors are reusable, so keep one in your toolbox in case you run into another stripped screw. [11] X Expert Source Gino ColucciHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 7 January 2021.

Rotary tools create sparks, so wear safety glasses and avoid working near anything flammable. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/7/71/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-9Bullet1. jpg/v4-460px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-9Bullet1. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/7/71/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-9Bullet1. jpg/v4-728px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-9Bullet1. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U. S. and international copyright laws. This image is not</b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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Be sure to wear proper welding gear, like a welding mask, gloves, and an apron. {“smallUrl”:“https://www. wikihow. com/images/thumb/5/5e/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-10Bullet1. jpg/v4-460px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-10Bullet1. jpg”,“bigUrl”:"/images/thumb/5/5e/Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-10Bullet1. jpg/v4-728px-Remove-a-Stripped-Screw-Step-10Bullet1. jpg",“smallWidth”:460,“smallHeight”:345,“bigWidth”:728,“bigHeight”:546,“licensing”:"<div class="mw-parser-output">

\u00a9 2023 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U. S. and international copyright laws. This image is not</b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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<br />\n</p></div>"} This works best for screws attached to metal since welders can leave burn marks on wood.