How to Remove Gum from Clothing Using Home Tricks
How to Remove Gum from Clothing: Proven Methods That Work
It’s happened to everyone – you accidentally sit on gum, kids unknowingly wipe it on their shirt, or it simply sticks to your clothing from an unknown source. Gum stuck to fabric can be quite a nuisance, and it often seems like you can’t remove it without damaging the material. Fortunately, there are tried and tested ways to get gum out of clothing without having to throw it away or resorting to drastic cleaning methods.
First Step: Avoid Panic and Leave the Fabric Alone
The biggest mistake is the immediate attempt to mechanically pull off the gum. If it’s still soft, you’ll just smear it into the fibers, complicating the entire process. It’s best to leave it be and choose an appropriate method based on the type of material and available resources.
How to Get Gum out of Clothing by Freezing?
One of the simplest and safest methods is freezing. This method works best on sturdier fabrics like jeans, cotton shirts, or sweatshirts. Simply fold the garment so that the gum remains on top, place it in a plastic bag, and put it in the freezer for two to three hours.
Once the gum is frozen, it becomes brittle and can be easily removed using a blunt object – like a credit card or the back of a knife. It’s important to be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric fibers. After removal, you can wipe off any remaining pieces of gum with a cloth or remove them with adhesive tape.
If it’s not possible to put the entire garment in the freezer, you can use an ice cube instead. Simply apply it to the gum and let it sit for a few minutes until the substance hardens. Then proceed in the same way as with the freezing method.
How to Remove Gum from Clothing with Heat?
For some types of fabrics, it’s worth trying the opposite approach – heat. By heating, the gum softens and separates more easily from the fabric. Several methods can be used:
Hair Dryer
If you have a hair dryer at home, you can use it to heat the gum. Simply direct a stream of hot air onto the affected area, and after a few minutes, when the gum softens, gently wipe it off with a paper towel or cloth.
Iron and Baking Paper
Another effective method is to use an iron. Place the clothing on baking paper with the gum facing down and gently iron on medium heat. The heat will cause the gum to stick to the paper and separate from the fabric. After several ironings, it should be gone.
Hot Water or Steam
For more durable fabrics like jeans or polyester materials, you can also try the steaming method. Simply hold the fabric over a pot of hot water or use a steam iron. The steam will loosen the bond between the fibers and the gum, making it easier to remove with a cloth or brush.
Using Common Household Products
In addition to physical methods, common household products can also help, as they dissolve or soften the structure of the gum, making it easier to remove.
Peanut Butter or Oil
Vegetable oil or peanut butter can "dissolve" the gum, making it easy to wipe off. Just apply a small amount to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently wipe off with a napkin. With more delicate fabrics, caution is needed as oil can leave greasy stains, which will need to be washed out.
Vinegar as a Natural Solvent
Vinegar is a great helper not only for cleaning but also for removing gum. It works on a similar principle as oil – disrupting its structure and allowing for easier removal. It’s best to heat a little vinegar, apply it to the gum with a cloth, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then just gently wipe or scrape it off.
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Alcohol or Nail Polish Remover
For synthetic fabrics, alcohol or nail polish remover (with or without acetone) can help. Simply apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently rub until the gum loosens. After use, it’s necessary to wash the clothing immediately to remove any chemical residues.
What to Do After Removing the Gum?
Even if you successfully remove the gum from the clothing, there may be a light mark or greasy spot left behind. To make the clothing perfectly clean again, it’s best to wash it immediately in the washing machine with regular detergent. If there are still remnants visible, pre-wash or use a stain remover.
Although it may seem that stuck gum means ruined clothing, there are actually several effective methods to remove gum from clothing without damaging the fabric. Whether you opt for freezing, heating, vinegar, or another proven method, it’s important to act with patience and always wash the clothing afterward. Knowing the right tricks, your favorite piece of wardrobe will be as good as new again.
