How to Remove Gum from Clothing
Freezing Method
The freezing method is one of the easiest ways to remove gum from clothing. All you need to do is place the garment in a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for a few hours. Once the gum is frozen, take the garment out of the freezer and use a butter knife or credit card to gently scrape off the gum.
If the gum is still sticky, you can apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and rub it over the remaining gum. This should help remove any remaining residue. Once the gum is removed, wash the garment as usual to remove any lingering scent of the rubbing alcohol.
Note: This method works best for items of clothing that are made of cotton or other natural fibers. For delicate fabrics or materials, such as silk or leather, it’s best to consult a professional cleaner for advice on how to remove gum without damaging the garment.
Peanut Butter Method
The peanut butter method is a popular and effective way to remove gum from clothing. Simply apply a small amount of creamy peanut butter to the affected area and use a toothbrush or your fingers to work the peanut butter into the gum.
The oils in the peanut butter help to break down the gum, making it easier to remove. Once the gum has been lifted, scrape off as much peanut butter as possible and then apply a small amount of dish soap to the area to remove any remaining residue.
Afterward, wash the garment in the washing machine as usual to remove any lingering peanut butter or dish soap. This method works well on most types of fabrics, but as with any stain removal method, it’s always best to test on an inconspicuous area first.
Vinegar Method
The vinegar method is another effective way to remove gum from clothing. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, and then spray the mixture directly onto the gum.
Allow the vinegar solution to sit on the gum for a few minutes to help break down the sticky residue. Then, use a toothbrush or other small brush to gently scrub the gum away from the fabric.
Once the gum has been removed, rinse the area with cool water and blot it dry with a clean cloth. If any residue remains, repeat the process until the gum is completely gone. Finally, wash the garment as usual to remove any lingering vinegar scent.
Note: This method works best on cotton or polyester fabrics, but it may not be suitable for delicate or dry-clean-only items. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first before attempting to remove gum from any garment.
Rubbing Alcohol Method
Rubbing alcohol is another effective way to remove gum from clothing. First, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a clean cloth and gently dab it onto the gum.
Once the gum is saturated with alcohol, use a toothbrush or other small brush to gently scrub the gum away from the fabric. If the gum is stubborn, add a few drops of dish soap to the rubbing alcohol before applying it to the gum.
After removing the gum, rinse the area with cool water and blot it dry with a clean cloth. If any residue remains, repeat the process until the gum is completely gone. Finally, wash the garment as usual to remove any lingering rubbing alcohol or dish soap scent.
Note: While rubbing alcohol is safe for most fabrics, it’s always best to test on an inconspicuous area first to ensure that it won’t damage the fabric or cause discoloration.
Laundry Detergent Method
The laundry detergent method is another simple way to remove gum from clothing. Start by applying a small amount of laundry detergent directly to the gum and working it into the fabric.
Then, use a toothbrush or other small brush to gently scrub the gum away from the fabric. Once the gum has been removed, rinse the area with cool water and blot it dry with a clean cloth.
If any residue remains, repeat the process until the gum is completely gone. Finally, wash the garment in the washing machine as usual to remove any lingering laundry detergent scent.
Note: This method is safe for most types of fabric, but it’s always best to test on an inconspicuous area first before attempting to remove gum from any garment. Additionally, if the garment is particularly delicate, it may be best to consult a professional cleaner.
