How to Remove a Ring That's Stuck on a Finger

Avoid a trip to the hospital by using these tricks to safely dislodge a stuck ring.

Step 1: Don't force it Avoid pulling and tugging too hard, which could cause your finger to swell and make it more difficult to remove the ring.
Step 2: Lubricate your finger Lubricate your finger and the ring liberally with hand lotion, petroleum jelly, cooking oil, or soap.
Step 3: Work the ring off Turn the ring around your finger to get the lubricant underneath. Gently work the ring off the finger, turning it as you go.
TIP: Cover the drain if you are working over a sink so that the ring doesn't disappear down the pipe.
Step 4: Bring down swelling Dip your hand in cool water for a few minutes to help reduce swelling if the lubricants don't work. Elevating your arm can also help reduce swelling.
Step 5: Try dental floss Wrap dental floss tightly around your finger starting just above the ring. Lubricate the floss and then slip the ring off over the compressed knuckle.
FACT: In 1477, the Archduke Maximillian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy the first diamond engagement ring recorded in history.