If could be frustrating and annoying to find a sticky piece of chewing gum stuck to your clothes. Chewing gum is made of synthetic rubber, which is very adhesive and resistant to water and heat. However, some effective methods can help you remove chewing gum from clothes without damaging them. In this article, we will show you how to use everyday household items and some simple techniques to quickly remove chewing gum from clothes.
See also: How to remove grease from clothes?
What you need to remove chewing gum from clothes?
- Freezer bag or a plastic wrap
- Ice cube or a cold pack
- Butter knife or a spoon
- Hair dryer or a clothes iron
- Paper towel or a cloth
- Stain remover or a laundry detergent
Method 1: Freeze it off
One of the simplest ways to remove chewing gum from clothes is to freeze it off. This method works best for fabrics that are not too delicate or sensitive to cold, such as cotton, denim, or polyester. Here are the steps to follow:
- Put the garment with the chewing gum in a freezer bag or wrap it using a plastic wrap. Make sure the chewing gum is completely covered and sealed.
- Place the bag or the wrapped garment in the freezer for at least an hour or until the chewing gum is hard and brittle.
- Take out the garment from the freezer and peel off the chewing gum with your fingers or a butter knife. Be careful not to damage the fabric with the knife.
- If any residues are left, rub them with an ice cube or a cold pack until they harden and scrape them off with the knife.
- Wash the garment as usual with a stain remover or a laundry detergent.
Method 2: Heat It Off
Another way to remove chewing gum from clothes is to heat it off. This method works best for fabrics not too sensitive to heat, such as wool, silk or nylon. Here are the steps to follow:
- Place a paper towel or a cloth over the chewing gum on the garment.
- Use a hair dryer at home or a clothes iron to heat up the paper towel or the cloth and melt the chewing gum underneath.
- Lift the paper towel or the cloth and remove the chewing gum with your fingers or a spoon. Be careful not to burn yourself with the heat source.
- If any residues are left, repeat the process until they are gone.
- Wash the garment as usual with a stain remover or a laundry detergent.
Method 3: Dissolve it off
A third way to remove chewing gum from clothes is to dissolve it. This method works best for fabrics not too absorbent or prone to discolouration, such as leather, vinyl or synthetic fibres. Here are the steps to follow:
- Apply a small amount of a solvent that can dissolve chewing gum, such as rubbing alcohol, vinegar, lemon juice or nail polish remover, on a cotton ball or a swab.
- Test the solvent on a small area of the garment to ensure it does not damage or stain the fabric.
- Rub the solvent on the chewing gum gently until it dissolves and comes off.
- Rinse the area with water and dry it with a paper towel or a cloth.
- Wash the garment as usual with a stain remover or a laundry detergent.
Chewing gum can be sticky when it gets on your clothes, but it does not have to ruin them. Using one method, you can remove chewing gum from clothes quickly and effectively. Remember to check the label of your garment before applying any technique and test it on a hidden area first. Also, wash your garment immediately after removing the chewing gum to prevent any stains or odours.
FAQs
How do you remove dried chewing gum from hard surfaces like tables or floors?
Use a scraping tool, like a blunt knife or a credit card, to gently lift off as much dry gum as possible. Then, apply an ice pack or a freezing agent to harden the remaining gum, making it easier to scrape off. Wipe off the area clean with a damp cloth.
How do you remove chewing gum from shoes or sneakers?
Place the affected shoes within a plastic bag and put it in the freezer for a few hours until the gum hardens. Once hardened, carefully scrape off the gum with a blunt tool such as a butter knife. For textured surfaces, use a toothbrush to scrub away any remaining residue.
How do you remove chewing gum from delicate fabrics like lace, satin, or velvet?
Use an oil-based product like peanut butter or cooking oil to soften the gum. Apply a small amount, let it sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrape off the gum and wash the garment as usual.
How to remove chewing gum from carpets, upholstery, or furniture?
Use freezing (by applying ice) or heating (with a hairdryer) to harden or soften the gum, then gently remove it. Vacuum or brush the area afterwards to clean any residue.
How do you remove chewing gum from hair or skin?
Use freezing (ice or cold pack) or a solvent (like oil-based products) to harden or dissolve the gum. Be cautious not to harm yourself, and wash with soap and water afterwards.
How do you prevent chewing gum from getting on clothes?
Avoid chewing gum, be cautious not to drop or accidentally stick it to clothes and keep clothes away from where gum might be present.
How do you eliminate chewing gum stains or odours on clothes?
Use a stain remover or laundry detergent to wash clothes promptly after gum removal. Adding baking soda or vinegar to the wash can help. Use bleach or colour-safe bleach if needed, following garment and product instructions.
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