Cleaning & Organization • 01/21/2025
How to Remove Gum From Clothing: 10 Easy Hacks
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You’ve arrived home from a busy day of meetings, errands and school pick-ups. After putting the groceries away, you take a deep breath, grab some coconut water and just as you’re about to sit, you discover the sticky surprise on your favorite jeans — gum. Two questions flood your thoughts — “How long have you been walking around with that?” and, most importantly, “How to remove gum from clothing?”
Fortunately, you can effortlessly rescue your garments from this dreaded fashion emergency with the right tactics.
Why Gum Sticks
People have been chewing gum since the cave dwellers’ days. This sweetened rubbery candy is made from synthetic polymers and resins, which give it its “chewiness.”
When gum meets fibers, the electrostatic interactions between molecules make it stick — stubborn and frustrating. However, the secret to removing gum lies in altering its properties. Once you change its temperature or consistency, removing it becomes a straightforward process. Here are 10 home remedies that’ll do it effectively.
1. The Icy First Line of Defense
One of the easiest ways to tackle gum is by exposing it to extremely low temperatures. The science is straightforward — freezing weakens the adhesive bond between the gum and fabric fibers. This solidifies the sticky blob, making it brittle, less adhesive and easy to scrape off.
Here’s how to remove gum from clothing with ice:
- Place the clothing item in a plastic pouch with the gum side up, ensuring the gum doesn’t stick to the bag.
- Put the bag in the freezer for at least an hour.
- Once the gum hardens, gently scrape it off using a dull knife or spoon.
If freezing the entire garment isn’t possible, rub an ice cube directly on the gum until it hardens. Use a can of compressed air to freeze the culprit instantly for a quicker fix.
2. Heat Things Up
Heat softens gum, making it easier to lift away from textiles. This method works well for delicate fabrics, as it minimizes potential damage compared to scraping.
You can either:
- Use a hair dryer: Place the gum-studded garment on a medium-heated dryer. When the gum softens, peel off with your fingers or a spatula.
- The ironing method: Place a piece of cardboard on a flat surface, lay the cloth with the gum facing down on the cardboard and run a warm iron over the fabric’s backside. As the clothing softens, the gum will transfer to the cardboard.
Finish by using a stain remover to eliminate any leftover marks. Avoid overheating, as excessive heat can cause some fabrics to shrink or discolor. Avoid using it on delicate or heat-sensitive materials.
3. The Peanut Butter Trick
While it sounds counterintuitive, peanut butter has been found to break gum’s hold on cloth. The oils in peanut butter act as a lubricant, slackening the gum’s grip on the fabric — or hair.
All it takes is a thin layer of peanut butter over the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrape with a knife or spoon. Wash thoroughly to remove any peanut butter residue. However, use this method cautiously on light-colored fabrics to avoid staining.
4. Toothpaste: The Surprising Hero
That tube of white toothpaste in your bathroom doubles as a powerful gum-removal agent. Studies show its mild abrasive properties effectively break down gum’s adhesive compounds without damaging most fabrics.
If you’re wondering how to remove gum from clothes with toothpaste, you’ll be glad to know it’s almost as easy as brushing those pearly whites. Just spread a small amount of non-gel toothpaste onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush until the gum loosens, then rinse and wash the garment as usual. This method is ideal for smaller gum spots and fabrics that can handle gentle scrubbing.
5. Rubbing Alcohol
Rubbing alcohol breaks down gum’s adhesive properties without damaging the fabric. Soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and dab it onto the gum until it loosens. Peel or scrape off the gum carefully, then wash as usual to remove any traces.
This method is especially effective on synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon. It’s a quick fix that requires minimal effort and supplies.
6. Vinegar Magic
Dating back to ancient Roman times, vinegar’s cleaning powers have stood the test of time. This versatile household staple also works wonders for removing gum. Vinegar’s natural acidity helps dissolve the gum, making it easier to remove. As a bonus, it’s an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals and makes a great spot-cleaning solution for cleaning carpets without a machine.
The process:
- Heat white vinegar until warm but not boiling.
- Apply to the affected area using a clean sponge.
- Allow to penetrate.
- Peel away the loosened gum.
- Wash as usual. This will also remove any vinegar smell.
7. Lemon Juice Solution
Lemon juice acts as a natural solvent for gum. Its natural acidity works similarly to vinegar, making it a great alternative. The only difference is that as it dissolves gum, it also helps to lighten any residual stains left by the gum.
Just soak the affected area in fresh lemon juice for a few minutes. Gently remove the gum and rinse the fabric.
8. Hairspray: Your Unexpected Ally
The same product that keeps your style in place can help remove gum. Hairspray’s alcohol content hardens the gum, making it easier to remove.
Here’s how to remove gum from clothes using hairspray:
- Spray thoroughly until the gum is completely covered.
- Wait for it to dry completely or until it becomes hard and brittle.
- Gently scratch away with a credit card.
- Wash the garment immediately.
9. WD-40 Spray
WD-40, a household lubricant, is excellent for loosening gum. Spray a small amount onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a cloth or spatula to scrape off the gum, then wash the garment to remove any oily residue.
WD-40 breaks down gum’s stickiness, making it easy to lift off. This method is ideal for tough fabrics like denim or jackets.
10. Commercial Gum Removers
If home solutions aren’t cutting it, commercial gum removers will have to save the day. These products are specifically designed to weaken gum’s adhesive properties. Commercial solutions are often more potent than household remedies and work quickly.
Apply the gum remover according to the product’s instructions, wait the recommended time and scrape or peel the gum off. Wash the fabric afterward to get rid of residue.
When to Visit the Professionals
While these home remedies work wonderfully in most cases, certain situations require expert intervention, such as:
- Antique or vintage clothing items.
- Extremely delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon.
- Designer garments with special care requirements.
- Cases where the gum has been heat-dried through multiple wash cycles.
No More Sticky Situations
Armed with these proven techniques, you’re now equipped to handle any sticky situation that comes your way. Perhaps it would be best to spot-test your chosen method on a small, hidden area first and don’t hesitate to try a different approach if your first attempt isn’t successful. After all, your favorite garments are too precious to let a little gum disaster ruin them.
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