Glue sticks are a staple in any home or classroom with young kids. They are easier to use and create fewer messes than traditional school glue. We really like that they come in a variety of styles. For example, we love the ones that go on colorfully so your child can see what they're doing. They also come in clear, white, and gel options. The problem is that they aren't all the best quality. Some don't stick as well as others, which can ruin your kid's art projects. We don't want that to happen, which is why we've created this list of the best glue sticks. Elmer’s All-Purpose Glue Stick Multi-functional choiceThis all-purpose glue stick handles all of your average crafts and projects with ease.Best OverallFind on Amazon For a simple, no-frills option, it’s often best to stick to the basics, such as this all-purpose glue stick from Elmer’s. It easily adheres to paper, foam, cardboard, fabric, and more. The formula starts white and becomes clear as it dries — and it dries fast. We all know accidents happen, so if this glue happens to go somewhere it shouldn’t be, it’s easy to wash off with soap and water. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for home, school, and work use. Pros: This glue stick comes in packs of different sizes based on your needs It’s affordable The formula is non-toxic, acid-free, and safe for photos Cons: It doesn’t work well on glossy paper or other very smooth materials In general, things bonded with this glue can be pulled apart if you try Gorilla Kids Disappearing Purple Glue Sticks Easy to useThis glue goes on purple, making it easier for your child to see where they're putting it.Best For KidsFind on Amazon When kids are trying to glue things together, they may struggle to see what they’re doing. That’s because most white glues don’t show up well, making it hard for them to know where the glue is going. That’s not a problem when you choose purple glue sticks like the ones from Gorilla Kids. The formula is super sticky and can easily be used for paper, wood, cardstock, plastic, and almost anything else. Best of all, it goes on with a bright purple hue, so your child can see exactly what they’re doing. Pros: Once this glue dries, it’s completely clear and doesn’t interfere with the final look of the project It sticks quickly, so you or your kids aren’t stuck holding stuff together This formula is completely safe and non-toxic Cons: The glue may dry too quickly Kids usually go through them fast, so you’ll find yourself needing more Avery GlueStics Simple and sensibleThese basic glue sticks are perfect for day-to-day art projects.Best ClassicFind on Amazon If you want to give your kids some strong glue sticks that they can use for arts, crafts, and homework, check out Avery’s GlueStics. The formula is acid-free, photo safe, and non-toxic. In most cases, it’s so easy to use that it’s almost impossible to make a mess of. But if your kiddos do happen to get some on their skin or clothes, it simply washes off. We find that it works well on paper, cardboard, plastic, and most other common craft materials. Pros: These glue sticks are available in different quantities for your convenience The containers are clear, so it’s easy to see when you need more They’re very affordable Cons: The glue can be clumpy When you use them on cardboard or wood, you need more than usual, or the glue won’t stick well Amazon Basics School Glue Sticks More for lessBuy in bulk and save money when you choose these high-quality glue sticks.Best ValueFind on Amazon These purple washable glue sticks from Amazon Basics are a fabulous choice when you want to save money without sacrificing quality. The glue goes on purple to make the application quick and easy, and it dries clear for a clean finish. It works well for paper, pictures, and pretty much anything else you and your kids are trying to put together. We appreciate how easily you can wash it off of any surface when kids make a mess, as well. Overall, these glue sticks are a great option that will give you plenty of bang for your buck. Pros: These glue sticks come in several quantities, all of which are affordable Application is easy for kids You can choose to get large or small glue sticks based on your needs Cons: They don’t stick as durably as we’d like Kids generally go through them fast Elmer’s Xtreme School Glue Stick Stick to the planWhen you have a tough job ahead, this extra-strength glue stick has you covered.Most Heavy-DutyFind on Amazon If you or your kids are tackling a project that requires a stronger bond than your typical glue stick can provide, the Xtreme glue stick from Elmer’s could be the best choice for you. It’s extra-strength and adheres permanently to pretty much any surface. With its clear-drying finish, this formula ensures that everyone sees the finished product and not a mess of glue. When other glue sticks have failed, this is the one we turn to. Pros: This glue sticks to plastic, paper, foam, fabric, and other materials with ease It dries quickly They’re perfect for arts and crafts that you want to ensure last Cons: It costs a bit more than most other glue sticks Kids can easily glue things where they don’t belong Frequently Asked Questions Why should I use glue sticks instead of regular school glue? Although regular liquid glues are generally a good choice for most projects, they aren’t exactly the cleanest option. That’s why, when possible, we choose glue sticks. Glue sticks allow you to stick things together and craft with ease, all without leaving a ton of sticky mess behind. They’re also a better choice when precision matters. What is the best type of glue stick for my family? You’ll want to choose your glue sticks based on your family’s needs. There are no one-size-fits-all options. For example, a kindergartner may do best with a disappearing purple glue stick, while an adult who is scrapbooking may do best with an extra-strength option. All you need to do is figure out what you’ll be using them for, and you can usually figure out the best choice. Related posts: The Best Glitter Glues The Best Hook and Loop Adhesive Strips The Best Wood Fillers