Removing bubble gum from clothing can be a frustrating experience, but with the right techniques and tools, it’s entirely possible to restore your clothes to their original condition. Bubble gum is sticky and stubborn, but there are several effective methods that can help loosen and remove it without damaging the fabric. Here are some tried-and-tested techniques for removing bubble gum from clothing:

1. Freezing Method

One of the easiest and most effective ways to remove bubble gum from clothing is by freezing it. The cold helps harden the gum, making it less sticky and easier to remove.

How to do it: Place the clothing with the gum in a plastic bag and place it in the freezer for at least 1-2 hours. Alternatively, if the item is too large to fit in the freezer, you can place ice cubes in a plastic bag and press them directly against the gum. Once the gum has hardened, gently scrape it off with a dull knife or spoon. Be careful not to damage the fabric while scraping.

2. Ironing Method

If freezing the gum doesn’t fully work, ironing can help remove it by melting it onto a paper towel or cloth.

How to do it: Place a piece of wax paper, paper towel, or a clean cloth over the gum stain. Heat your iron to a medium setting (without steam) and press it gently onto the covered gum. The heat will soften the gum, allowing it to transfer to the paper or cloth. Make sure to check frequently to avoid burning the fabric. Once most of the gum is transferred, you can clean the area with soap and water.

3. Peanut Butter or Cooking Oil Method

For a natural, non-toxic solution, peanut butter or vegetable oil can break down the sticky properties of bubble gum. The oil in these products helps loosen the gum without causing harm to the fabric.

How to do it: Apply a small amount of peanut butter or cooking oil directly onto the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oil to penetrate and soften the gum. Once it becomes pliable, gently scrape it off with a spoon or dull knife. After the gum is removed, wash the clothing to remove any oily residue. Be sure to test this method on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration.

4. Vinegar Method

White vinegar is a versatile household product known for its ability to dissolve sticky substances, including bubble gum.

How to do it: Heat some white vinegar in the microwave or on the stove until it is warm, not boiling. Pour or dab the vinegar directly onto the gum stain and let it sit for a few minutes. The acidity of the vinegar will break down the gum’s sticky properties. After a few minutes, use a cloth or sponge to gently scrub the gum away. Wash the clothing afterward to remove any vinegar scent.

5. Rubbing Alcohol Method

Rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol is another effective option for breaking down the sticky residue of gum.

How to do it: Soak a cotton ball or cloth in rubbing alcohol and apply it directly to the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the gum, then use a dull knife or your fingers to scrape it off. Once you have removed the gum, wash the clothing in warm water to remove any remaining alcohol and gum particles.

6. Dish Soap and Baking Soda Method

If you don’t want to use oil-based solutions, you can make a simple paste using dish soap and baking soda that helps lift the gum from clothing.

How to do it: Mix a tablespoon of dish soap with two tablespoons of baking soda to create a thick paste. Apply the paste directly to the gum, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The combination of dish soap’s grease-cutting abilities and baking soda’s abrasive properties can break down the gum. After the paste sits, use a brush (a toothbrush works well) to scrub the gum out of the fabric. Rinse the clothing and launder as usual.

7. Commercial Gum Remover

For those who prefer a store-bought solution, there are gum removal products available, such as Goo Gone or specific gum removers designed for fabrics.

How to do it: Simply follow the instructions on the product. Typically, these products are applied directly to the gum stain, left to sit for a few minutes, and then scraped or wiped away. Always check the label to ensure the product is safe for your type of fabric and do a spot test before applying it to the entire stain.

Additional Tips:

Avoid using hot water directly on the gum stain, as it can make the gum more difficult to remove.

Check the fabric care label before applying any cleaning method to ensure that it won’t damage the material.

Test any method on an inconspicuous area of the fabric first to avoid discoloration or damage, particularly for delicate fabrics.

Conclusion:

Removing bubble gum from clothing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Whether you choose the freezing method, a bit of peanut butter, or some vinegar, these methods can effectively remove gum without ruining your clothes. It’s important to act quickly when the gum gets on your clothing, as the longer it sits, the harder it becomes to remove. With patience and the right technique, you can restore your clothing to its original condition and continue to enjoy it without any gum-related mishaps.https://www.ariel.in/en-in/how-to-wash/stain-removal/how-to-remove-chewing-gum-from-clothing