Household glues: no adhesive does it all.(Product/service evaluation)

Glue makers have enlisted snarling rhinos, glaring gorillas, and sumo wrestlers to tout their promises of "incredible strength," "truly all-purpose," and "Glues whatever. Bonds forever." But those claims didn't stick in our lab tests.

Most of the multipurpose adhesives, superglues, epoxies, and wood glues that we tested were adequately strong for their intended purpose. But no single adhesive worked for everything--and a few barely worked at all.

Convenience comes in a tube. Many glues are now sold in single-use sizes, and manufacturers sell packs with two, four, and even up to a dozen tubes. That means dried-up, half-used tubes of superglue are a thing of the past. "The tubes got smaller because people complained they'd go back to reuse the glue and it was too hard and crusty," says David Nick, a consultant to the adhesives industry. None of the tested glues had an expiration date, so if you have a lot of repairs or projects, buy multipacks to save money.

One type can pose health issues. Polyurethane glues, such as the Elmer's Ultimate, Gorilla Glue, Liquid Nails Rhino Ultra Glue, and Loctite Sumo Glue we tested, can cause skin irritations and respiratory problems, and subsequent exposure to them could cause stronger reactions.

Of less concern but more common are fingers stuck together with superglue. "Soak your glued fingers in warm, soapy water," says James S. Taylor, M.D., a dermatologist at the Cleveland Clinic; gently separate the skin with a soft spatula. If water doesn't work, use acetone or nail polish remover. Taylor cautions that both of those materials could irritate your skin.

No matter which adhesive you use, carefully follow the directions and safety information on the package. And wear thick rubber or vinyl gloves and work in a well-ventilated location or outdoors.

DOING IT RIGHT