How to Fix First Layer and Bed Adhesion

Good first layer adhesion is crucial for successful prints. Learn how to achieve perfect bed adhesion every time.

Symptoms of First Layer and Bed Adhesion

  • First layer not sticking to bed
  • Print coming loose during printing
  • First layer too squished or not squished enough
  • Uneven first layer with gaps or ridges

Common Causes

Incorrect Z-offset/bed leveling

Nozzle too far from bed means filament doesn't squish properly; too close causes clogs and poor flow.

Dirty or contaminated bed

Oils, dust, or residue on the bed surface prevent adhesion.

Wrong bed temperature

Each material has an optimal bed temperature range for adhesion.

Incompatible bed surface

Some materials require specific bed surfaces (e.g., PP needs PP tape).

Solutions

1Level bed and set Z-offset

  1. Step 1: Run bed leveling procedure (manual or automatic)
  2. Step 2: Use paper test: slight resistance when pulling paper under nozzle
  3. Step 3: Fine-tune Z-offset with baby stepping during first layer
  4. Step 4: Aim for slight squish without being too flat

2Clean the bed properly

  1. Step 1: Wipe with 90%+ isopropyl alcohol
  2. Step 2: Avoid touching the bed surface with fingers
  3. Step 3: Deep clean occasionally with dish soap and water
  4. Step 4: Let bed dry completely before printing

3Use adhesion aids

  1. Step 1: Apply glue stick (especially for PETG on PEI)
  2. Step 2: Use hairspray for ABS
  3. Step 3: Try specialized bed adhesives like Magigoo
  4. Step 4: Use release agents to prevent over-adhesion

4Optimize first layer settings

  1. Step 1: Increase first layer line width (120-150%)
  2. Step 2: Slow down first layer speed (20-30mm/s)
  3. Step 3: Increase first layer temperature slightly
  4. Step 4: Use brim or raft for difficult prints

Prevention Tips

  • Clean bed before every print
  • Check leveling regularly
  • Use appropriate bed surface for your material
  • Don't remove prints while bed is hot (can damage surface)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't PETG stick to my PEI bed?
PETG can actually bond TOO well to bare PEI, potentially damaging the surface. Use a light layer of glue stick as a release agent. This helps PETG adhere during printing but release cleanly afterward.
What bed surface is best for beginners?
Textured PEI (powder-coated) is excellent for beginners as it works well with PLA, PETG, and many other materials without adhesives. Smooth PEI is better for getting shiny bottom surfaces.
My print stuck too well and damaged the bed. What do I do?
Let the bed cool completely (materials contract and release). If still stuck, try putting the whole bed in the freezer for 15-30 minutes. To prevent this, use release agents and never force parts off.

Other Troubleshooting Guides

Stringing and Oozing

Stringing occurs when thin threads of filament are left between parts of your print. Learn how to eliminate stringing and oozing for cleaner prints.

Warping and Lifting

Warping happens when corners or edges of your print lift off the bed during printing. Learn how to prevent warping for successful prints.

Poor Layer Adhesion

Layer adhesion issues cause weak prints that delaminate or break easily. Learn how to improve layer bonding for stronger parts.

Nozzle Clogs and Jams

Clogs prevent filament from extruding properly. Learn how to prevent, diagnose, and fix nozzle clogs.