Bed Adhesion Troubleshooting Guide

Use this page to diagnose bed adhesion issues fast and apply the right fix without guessing.

What Kind of Adhesion Problem Do You Have?

• Not sticking at all: the first layer will not grab anywhere.
• Sticking unevenly: one side grips, the other peels.
• Sticks first, then lifts: edges rise after a few layers.
• PETG problems: sticks too hard or releases inconsistently.

Fast Checks in the Right Order

1. Cleanliness: remove oils, dust, and old glue residue.
2. Nozzle height: confirm Z offset and first-layer squish.
3. Bed temperature: match the filament for the first layer.
4. Surface choice: plate type must match the material.
5. Cooling & drafts: reduce airflow until the first layers are stable.

If nozzle height or leveling still feels off, use the bed leveling and Z-offset guide.

What to Try First Based on the Symptom

• Not sticking at all: clean the plate, then lower Z offset slightly.
• Sticking unevenly: re-level the bed and re-check mesh compensation.
• Sticks then lifts: raise bed temp a bit and reduce cooling early.
• PETG too aggressive: use a PETG-friendly surface or a barrier layer.

When the Issue Is Warping, Not Adhesion

If the print adheres at first but lifts as it cools, the problem is likely warping. Use the prints warping fix page to diagnose heat loss and draft issues.

If You Need the Full Guide

For the complete decision path and plate selection, use the build plate & bed adhesion guide.

Related Build Plate Choices

• Best PEI sheets and build plates for most filaments.
• Best build plate for PETG when adhesion is too strong or inconsistent.
• Smooth vs textured PEI for finish and grip trade-offs.

FAQ

Why does the first layer stick on one side but not the other?
That is usually uneven leveling or Z offset. Re-level and re-check the first-layer squish.

Should I use glue stick every time?
No. Use it only when the surface is correct and you still need controlled adhesion or easier release.

Is PETG supposed to stick harder than PLA?
Yes. Use a PETG-friendly plate or a barrier layer to avoid damage.