Best Glue For Ceramic Mug Handle

Although breaking a ceramic mug is inconvenient, most can be fixed if you have all of the parts and good glue. Not only can the best ceramic glue save minor shattered and broken things, but you may also use it to repair ceramic tiles and worktops. That said, what is the best type of glue to use to repair a ceramic mug handle?

Epoxies provide a robust and void-filling binding for porous ceramics in general. Off-the-shelf epoxy glues typically include a hardener and a resin, which must be mixed during application. In addition, super glue contains cyanoacrylate, which is not FDA approved and is not recommended for mugs.

To assess their ease of application, drying durations, and cured finish color, I’ve tested several types of super glues and epoxies on some of the most popular ceramics used in the home, including stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware. So let’s see why epoxy is best suited to fix a mug handle and how you can do it.

Epoxy Glue: The Best Glue For Ceramic Mug Handles

It’s a good idea to keep a specialist adhesive on hand if you own or deal with ceramics frequently. However, when it boils down to ceramics used for food and beverages, FDA-approved epoxies are the safest to use and the most durable choice.

However, finding one that does the job right may be challenging with so many on the market. That said, what is one of the best FDA-approved glues available today?

Devvon 5 Minute Expocy Waterproof Glue

Amazon rating: 4.8 of 5 stars

Devcon has a history of providing high-quality products to the DIY community and for pros in the field, and this epoxy glue is no exception. The Devcon 8.5Oz Epoxy glue’s strength and adaptability make it one of the most effective methods to join ceramic items together.

This adhesive has a strong bonding strength that enables long-lasting connections, and it takes only 5 seconds to dry! In addition, the glue cures and dries quickly once applied; you’ll be ready to go in 5 minutes, allowing you to focus on other essential chores.

The 5 minutes will allow you to place the pieces quickly and precisely. Because the glue dries neatly and transparently, it isn’t easy to see when you’ve mended ceramic equipment.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) employs Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations in the US and many other nations; CFR 175 part 105 deals with adhesives, while subsection 300 deals with resinous and polymeric coatings.

Each section includes a list of raw ingredients suitable for adhesives with food contact. “If you are making an item that requires a food-safe epoxy glue (that is, one that is created with materials specified in the FDA CFR 21 175.105 or 177.300), epoxy is your only option,” according to Permabond.

The Best Glues For Ceramic Repair: What To Look For

Everything from the adhesive’s formulation to the applicator to the drying period can impact how successfully it repairs a ceramic object. That said, keep reading to find out what to think about before buying a new ceramic glue.

The Two Glue Types For Ceramic Repair

There are many different glue forms, but super glue and epoxy are the most frequent for ceramic restoration.

Super glue uses cyanoacrylate, which is made from cyanide, to create a strong bond. This quick-drying solution requires no mixing and, unlike epoxy, dries in seconds. As a result, it’s ideal for lightweight ceramics and forming bonding in tight spaces, such as reassembling a planter’s cracked rim.

Epoxies are made up of a hardener and a resin that, when combined together, provide a strong bond perfect for ceramics. In addition, epoxy is more durable than super glue, so it’s the better choice for mending objects that receive a lot of handling.

While it takes a bit more determination to make and drying periods are longer, it’s the better choice for fixing goods that get a lot of movement. Because of their viscosity, epoxies can also be employed as fillers. They fill in dents, scratches, cracks, holes, and joints and can be sanded and painted to hide the repair.

The Applicator And Container Shape

Many types of super glues come with a tiny applicator tip that may be used to apply the adhesive to the exact location that needs to be fixed. In addition, a nozzle is included with certain goods to allow for more accurate application. Other glues come with a brush so you can decide how thick or thin the substance is applied.

If the container is essentially an extension of the applicator, the form of the container might be an essential component in ease of usage. Dripping is also less common in specific container designs. Avoid dripping containers since they waste products and increase the danger of adhesive contact with the skin, which can cause discomfort.

The Drying Time And Opacity Of The Glue

Every adhesive, regardless of kind, has a variable drying time, which is generally stated on the label someplace. Epoxies typically take 30 seconds to 5 minutes to set and several hours to heal.

Quick-setting adhesives, such as super glue, don’t allow for much adjustment time; it’s better to conduct a dry fit first before applying the sealant to ensure the components are correctly aligned.

Another feature to consider is the opacity of the dried product. Most glues dry to a clear finish so that the product won’t show through on the ceramic. Some, on the other hand, change color as they dry. So if you’re going to use glue as a filler, be sure it matches the color of the ceramic piece.

Food Saftey Rating Of The Glue

The chemical makeup of many ceramic adhesives is what makes them so robust. But, unfortunately, many of these chemicals are not “food-safe,” which means you should not use them on plates, cups, or other food-and-drink-related objects.

For example, cyanoacrylate is found in most super glues. If swallowed, the chemical might cause skin irritation and moderate gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, the FDA does not advocate using the chemical on any object directly contacting food or drinks, despite being minimally harmful in minor points.

Waterproof Glue Vs. Water Resistant Glue

Many, but not all, ceramic adhesives are waterproof or water-resistant. It’s a good idea to apply waterproof glue if your ceramic object is routinely exposed to liquids or maintained in a damp environment.

Waterproof epoxies are possible, although water-resistant, super glues are more likely. For example, hand-washing should be alright with a water-resistant adhesive, and some may even be put in the dishwasher. To determine if the glue is water-resistant or waterproof, look at the label or look it up online.

Accessories That May Come With The Product

Like other crafts supplies, Ceramic glues may come with extras that might help with repairs. Typically, they are application instruments like a scraper, spatula, or attachment that provide greater control of the glue flow.

Some adhesives come with various caps, syringes, and nozzles, so you may apply the glue with a brush or squeeze it out with a syringe. It’s a good idea to work with super glues and epoxies on a tarp or sheet to protect the surface underneath you. However, they aren’t generally included with adhesives.

Conclusion

If you need to repair any portion of a ceramic mug or dish, the safest method to take is by using an FDA-approved epoxy. Although superglue is quick and easy to apply, it includes cyanoacrylate, which can cause health problems if consumed. They are, however, more suited for other ceramics such as vases and sculptures.

Best Glue For Ceramic Mug Handle