Have you reached a stage in your LEGO building where you’re running out of space to put your finished sets and need some basic bricks for your own MOCs, but just don’t like taking your sets apart?
Maybe you’ve even chosen a set to take apart because it isn’t one of your favorites and has been on display for the longest time, but it just feels pretty bad to break it down.
It could be a really cool set you could easily rebuild later, yet somehow, taking it apart feels shameful. So… should you take apart your LEGO set?
That depends on the situation. If you’re running out of space or need parts for new creations, then it might be wise to take it apart—even if it doesn’t feel great.
You can always keep your favorite sets disassembled inside large gallon ziplock bags, store them back in their original boxes, and place them in storage.
As for the rest, you can use larger bins or small clear plastic Tupperware containers. Just don’t throw away the instructions.
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How Do You Break Down LEGO Sets?
If you’re ready to break down your LEGO sets, don’t strain your fingers trying to separate stuck bricks. Here are two simple and effective methods to help you disassemble LEGO creations safely.
Method 1: Easy Way to Break Down LEGO Sets (No Tools Needed)
You don’t need tools to take LEGO sets apart. With just a bit of leverage, you can separate even tight bricks. Here’s how:
- Use a long brick as a lever and a smaller brick as a wedge
- Attach the wedge (the small brick) slightly toward the center of the long brick
- Plug the stuck brick into the free space, in contact with the wedge
- Apply a diagonal force to release the stuck brick
This trick works great for plates and bricks stuck together without damaging the pieces.
Method 2: Using the LEGO Brick Separator
If you have a brick separator tool, here’s how to use it to take apart your sets with precision:
Step 1: Unsticking Plates
- Use the LEGO Art Brick Separator to press down on the plate you want to remove
- Hold the LEGO set steady
- Press down on the separator handle using the ridges for grip
- The plate should pop off cleanly
Step 2: Removing Bottom Plates
- Attach the separator’s studs to the bottom of the plate until it clicks
- Lift the handle while holding the rest of the set in place
- The plate should come off smoothly
Step 3: Removing Multiple Tiles
- Place the flat end of the separator beside the tiles
- Press down so it lifts the tile like a lever
- Hold the rest of the build steady to prevent movement
- The tiles should pop right off
Step 4: Removing Side Tiles
- Put the flat corner of the separator next to the edge tile
- Press down to lift the tile
- Again, hold your build steady
- The tile should detach easily
Are LEGO Sets Meant To Be Taken Apart?
LEGO sets are traditionally meant to be built and enjoyed, but they can be taken apart if needed. Whether it’s to make space or reuse parts for custom builds, there’s nothing wrong with breaking them down.
Final Thoughts
By now, you’ve got a better idea of whether or not to take your LEGO creations apart.
If you’re running out of space or want to build something new, taking them apart is a smart move. Use the brick separator for safe disassembly, or try simple leverage tricks if you’re worried about damaging your pieces.
Keep the parts organized in ziplock bags or plastic containers, and store them in their original boxes if possible. And remember—never toss out the instruction manuals.
