Problem

Quran binding coming loose or pages falling out

By the Madrasah Bag team · Updated 2026-09-24

Quick fix

If a Quran's binding is loosening, stop it getting worse: keep it in a snug cover and avoid opening it flat past 180°. A single loose page can be tipped back in with a thin line of acid-free PVA glue or archival book tape along the inner edge. Avoid ordinary sticky tape, which yellows and damages paper. If many pages are loose or the spine has split, it's usually time to retire it respectfully and buy a new copy.

Repairs you can do

One or two loose pages: run a thin line of acid-free PVA glue along the inner edge and press it back into place. Close and weigh down overnight.
Small tears: use archival (acid-free) document repair tape.
Loose cover: archival bookbinding tape along the inside hinge.

What not to use

Ordinary sticky tape, which yellows, goes brittle and stains pages
Superglue, which soaks through and stiffens pages
Staples

Why bindings fail

Being squeezed into a bag that's too small or packed under heavy items
Being opened completely flat or folded back on itself
Heat and damp

A bag that holds the Quran flat in its own sleeve takes most of the strain off the binding.

Retiring a worn-out Quran

A Quran that can no longer be used properly is traditionally disposed of by burial. Our sister service BookBurial handles this respectfully by post anywhere in the UK.

Questions people also ask

What do you do with a Quran that's falling apart?

Repair small damage with acid-free glue or archival tape. If it's beyond repair, dispose of it respectfully, usually by burial.

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More on quran care and adab

← How to carry the Quran respectfully: the full topic guide