How to Get Gum Out of Clothes: Solving a Sticky Situation

Gum: It's a chewy treat for your mouth but a sticky nightmare for your clothes. Whether it's a mischievous child or a clumsy moment, getting gum stuck on fabric can turn your day sour.

But don't worry — this guide will show you how to get gum out of clothes. Let's turn that sticky mess into a mere memory.

Method 1: The Ice Cube Technique for Bulky Clothing

Got gum on your favorite thick sweater or heavy jeans? Here’s a cool solution.

What You'll Need:

• Ice cubes

• A freezer bag

• A blunt-edged knife or a butter knife

Here's What to Do:

1. Ice, ice, baby: Place some ice cubes in a freezer bag and lay it over the gum, or rub an ice cube directly on the gum.

2. Scrape it off: Once the gum hardens, use the knife to gently scrape it off.

Method 2: A Delicate Approach for Finer Fabrics

Tackling gum on delicate fabrics? This method is gentle yet effective.

What You'll Need:

• An ice cube or a freezer

• A plastic bag

• A toothbrush

Here's What to Do:

1. Pre-freezing prep: Remove as much gum as you can by hand.

2. Freeze: Wrap the garment in the plastic bag and freeze. Alternatively, apply an ice cube directly to the gum.

3. Brush: Once the gum hardens, peel off what you can and use the toothbrush to remove any remaining residue.

Method 3: An Ice Cube Sandwich

What You'll Need:

• Two ice cubes

• Laundry detergent or an enzyme detergent

• A flat-edged knife

Here's What to Do:

1. Center one cube underneath the garment, directly below the gum. There should be as little material as possible between the ice and the gum.

2. Balance the second ice cube carefully on the gum, directly over the first ice cube.

3. Wait about 30 minutes, or until the gum is very cold.

4. Remove the ice cubes.

5. Place the garment on a flat surface. Scrape off the frozen gum with the non-serrated edge of the knife.

6. Pre-treat the area where the gum was with soap or detergent.

7. Wash the garment normally.

Background: The Science of Gum Stains

Understanding the nature of chewing gum can help us tackle it more effectively. Gum is designed to be sticky, which is why it clings to fabrics so stubbornly. When you chill gum with ice, it loses its elasticity and stickiness, making it easier to remove.

Creative Solutions: Beyond the Basics

There are more tricks in the bag! Here’s a couple more:

• Rubbing alcohol: Not just for wounds, it can weaken the gum's grip on fabric.

• Hot water: Soak the affected area in hot water to soften the gum, then gently peel it off.

This article was updated in conjunction with AI technology, then fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

Original article: How to Get Gum Out of Clothes: Solving a Sticky Situation

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