How to Remove a Broken Light Bulb from the Socket

Use this safe and easy technique next time you need to replace a shattered light bulb.

: Working with electricity is dangerous. Be extremely careful and, if you have any doubts, contact a professional.
Step 1: Turn off electricity Unplug a lamp from the wall plug. For a permanent fixture, shut off the circuit breaker.
Step 2: Insert pliers into fixture Wearing your gloves and safety glasses, insert your needle-nose pliers into the rim of the light bulb.
TIP: For added friction, wrap electrical tape around the ends of your pliers.
Step 3: Unscrew bulb Spread the pliers’ handles apart so that the ends push out against the inner wall of the light bulb. Turn the pliers counter-clockwise to unscrew the bulb.
TIP: If you’re having trouble extracting the bulb using the needle-nose pliers, try using a raw potato to unscrew the bulb.
Step 4: Discard bulb Discard the broken bulb and screw in the new bulb firmly, but not forcefully.
Step 5: Turn on power Turn the power back on or plug the fixture back into the wall, and let there be light!
FACT: Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) use approximately 75% less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs.