If the piece won’t come out even with a screwdriver, try twisting a side face to loosen the connections. [1] X Research source
Do not remove the six central pieces. Leave them attached to the central mechanism.
You can buy the stickers at an office supply store.
Competitive cubers might want to discuss specific products with other hobbyists. Too much lubrication can make the cube difficult to handle, so the choice of product and amount depends on your cube brand and personal preference. [6] X Research source
No-stick cooking spray, white lithium grease, graphite spray, and silicone-based furniture polish are less effective, but okay. It’s a good idea to clean them off after a while, as some products can eventually make your cube sticky. Petroleum jelly (Vaseline), WD-40, and any lubricant that smells of petroleum are not recommended, since they damage some types of plastic. This is an okay choice to break in a new, extra-stiff cube, if you wipe it off thoroughly afterward.
Pull on two center pieces on opposite sides. Check how far they have pulled apart. Ideally, it should be an equal amount of space on both sides, about 1 mm. Loosen or tighten the screws until all pieces allow roughly this amount of space when pulled apart. While you can loosen further for faster turns, a cube that’s too loose is difficult to handle and can even break apart as you solve it.
If the screw head is wearing into the center piece, fit a metal washer between them. Never attach super glue to the other end of the spring, or you could block the turning mechanism.
Slide each edge piece into position around the matching central place. Hold them in place so they don’t fall. If a piece won’t go in, slide it on in a “wrong” position and twist it into place. Once the cross is made, carefully put the cube down, with the cross on the table surface.
Attach the last piece in the middle layer. Attach the two remaining corner pieces in the top layer. Rotate the top layer at a 45º angle to the others. Attach the final piece.
If lubricating made your cube stiffer and the problem doesn’t go away within a couple days, you probably used too much lubricant. Disassemble the cube and wipe off the excess.
