How to remove chewing gum from clothing: top effective methods

Chewing gum can unexpectedly adhere to your clothes or home textiles, whether it's a "gift" from children or an unwelcome encounter picked up on the street. Fortunately, you can eliminate this nuisance with the right approach.

OBOZREVATEL has compiled a few life hacks that don't require complex chemistry or much effort. The necessary tools can be found in any home.

Cold

Chewing gum hardens and becomes brittle in the cold, making freezing the most effective way to remove it. Place the item with the stuck gum in a bag and place it in the freezer for a few hours. Once properly frozen, you can easily remove it. The key is not to rub it before freezing. If putting the item in the freezer isn't an option, you can treat the gum with an ice cube—either directly or wrapped in a bag—or run it under cold water.

Boiling Water

Gum does not withstand high temperatures, so it can be washed with boiling water if the fabric allows. However, be very careful not to burn yourself. Pour boiling water from a kettle onto the stain and gently scrub it with a stiff brush. It's best to do this with caution. Alternatively, you can boil the item in a saucepan or large bowl for a few minutes and then remove the gum with a knife.

Iron

Another "hot" method involves placing a paper napkin or towel on the gum and running a hot iron over it several times. The gum should stick to the paper. After this treatment, wash the item to remove any residual gum stains.

Hair Dryer

A hair dryer can effectively melt gum, making it easier to clean off. Choose the highest possible temperature and hold the hair dryer not too close to the fabric but close enough for effective melting.

Vinegar

An acidic agent like heated white vinegar can dissolve gum effectively without leaving stains. Dip a stiff brush into the hot vinegar and treat the gum. It should gradually break down and detach from the fabric. Wash the item afterward to eliminate any lingering vinegar scent.

Nail Polish Remover

Both acetone and non-acetone nail polish removers are suitable for this treatment, but it's crucial to test the product on an inconspicuous area of the item before use. The solvent may damage fabric dye and even harm some synthetic materials. You can remove gum using a cotton pad with the nail polish remover. The key is not to rush and not to rub the gum too much but to soak it and gently remove it.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told you how to clean stains from children's clothes without harsh chemicals and bleach.

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