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Removing chewing gum from clothes can be a frustrating task, but there are several effective methods you can try. One popular method is to freeze the gum using ice cubes or a freezer pack, then scrape it off with a butter knife or credit card. Another option is to use a solvent, such as WD-40 or rubbing alcohol, to break down the gum. Apply a small amount to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently rub or scrape the gum away. You can also try using a hot iron to melt the gum, then blotting it with a clean cloth. Remember to always check the clothing care instructions and test any method in a small, inconspicuous area first.
Chewing gum can be quite messy when it sticks to a certain area on clothing. However, if it goes unnoticed through the washing machine and dryer, that small blob of gum can spread itself over multiple garments. There are several methods to remove this sticky mess, such as freezing, scraping, or using white vinegar. The best method may vary depending on the specific gum and garment.
Remove Whatever is Possible
As soon as you notice the gum, try to remove any loose bits that can easily come off. It is recommended to wear rubber gloves to prevent the gum from sticking to your hands. However, be cautious about what you touch afterwards to avoid spreading the mess. If the gum is too sticky to handle, hang the affected items on hangers or clothespins in a cool area away from direct sunlight. Hanging the items up will also help you identify all the problem spots. Make sure to check inside items like skirts, shirts, or socks for any gum mess.
Allow the items to cool down if they have just come out of the dryer. Remove as much gum as possible by hand, and then use plastic knives and spoons to scrape off the remaining gum. Dispose of the picked-off gum in a trash bag, trying to avoid creating a secondary mess.
Hard Gum is Easier to Remove
Heat makes gum extremely sticky and stretchy. You may have experienced this if you have ever stepped on gum on hot asphalt on a sunny summer afternoon. On the other hand, cold gum retains its shape and is easier to peel away from surfaces.
Inspect the garment thoroughly to identify all the gum spots, as it is likely that the gum is present in multiple places. Place the item in the freezer with the gum facing upward and not touching anything else. If the gum is spread all over the garment, you can put wax paper between the folds to prevent it from sticking to other parts of the fabric. Leave the garment in the freezer for about an hour or until the gum hardens.
If you don’t have space in the freezer, you can place ice cubes or an ice pack in a zippered plastic bag and place it on top of the gum. If there are multiple gum spots, use multiple small bags of ice. Leave the ice bags in place for approximately 15 minutes or until the gum hardens enough to be pulled off. Use your hands to peel off the gum and dispose of it in the trash. You can use a plastic spoon or knife to gently remove any remaining gum bits from the fabric.
Try Soaking in Hot Vinegar
For clothing that is colorfast, soaking it in hot white vinegar can help loosen any remaining gum. Heat a small amount of white vinegar in a microwave-safe container, such as a glass measuring cup, or on the stove in a small saucepan. Warm the vinegar until it is fairly hot, but not scalding or boiling.
To remove any remaining sticky spots on the affected garments, you can soak them in white vinegar for a few minutes. The vinegar will help loosen the gum from the fabric. After that, you can use a plastic spoon to scrape off the gum from the clothes and dispose of it in a trash bag.
