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

gum on jeans — Getting gum stuck on your favorite pair of jeans sucks. But no worries. You can get it out. Kampan/Shutterstock

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.

Contents

Method 1: The Ice Cube Technique for Bulky Clothing
Method 2: A Delicate Approach for Finer Fabrics
Method 3: An Ice Cube Sandwich
Background: The Science of Gum Stains
Creative Solutions: Beyond the Basics

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:

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.
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:

Pre-freezing prep: Remove as much gum as you can by hand.
Freeze: Wrap the garment in the plastic bag and freeze. Alternatively, apply an ice cube directly to the gum.
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:

Center one cube underneath the garment, directly below the gum. There should be as little material as possible between the ice and the gum.
Balance the second ice cube carefully on the gum, directly over the first ice cube.
Wait about 30 minutes, or until the gum is very cold.
Remove the ice cubes.
Place the garment on a flat surface. Scrape off the frozen gum with the non-serrated edge of the knife.
Pre-treat the area where the gum was with soap or detergent.
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.

Remove Gum FAQ

What can dissolve chewing gum?

Vinegar can be used to dissolve any chewing gum, making it easier to remove from any surface.

How do you remove chewing gum from a carpet?

Put ice in a zip-lock bag and leave it on the gum wad for 15 to 20 minutes. The ice hardens the gum, making it easier to scrape off. Tend to your carpet as soon as you can to avoid staining.

Does ice get gum out of hair?

As soon as gum gets stuck in your hair, dab an ice pack on it for 10 to 15 minutes to freeze it. This should reduce its stickiness, making it easier for you to remove.

Is there a quick method for removing gum from clothes without freezing?

Yes, you can use rubbing alcohol. Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the gum with a cotton swab. This will break down the gum's stickiness, making it easier to scrape off with a plastic spoon or a blunt knife.

How can I use peanut butter to remove gum?

Creamy peanut butter can be applied to the gum stain. The oils in the peanut butter help to break down the gum's adhesive properties. Leave it on for about a minute, then gently scrape off the loose gum with a butter knife. Remember to wash the garment immediately afterwards to remove any peanut butter residue.

Are there any home remedies to remove chewing gum residue?

White vinegar is effective. Heat a small amount of vinegar (be careful not to boil it), then apply it to the gum residue with a paper towel. After a few minutes, gently rub the area with a laundry brush to remove any remaining gum.

Can I use heat to remove gum from clothes?

Yes, using an iron can help. Place the garment, gum side down, on a piece of cardboard or an ironing board. Use a warm iron to gently heat the gum, which will transfer onto the cardboard. Be careful not to overheat the fabric, especially if it's delicate.

What should I do if there's a stain left after removing the gum?

After removing the gum, if a stain persists, treat it with a stain remover spray or a mixture of laundry detergent and hot water. Gently rub the area and then wash the garment according to its care instructions.

How can I avoid gum stains in future loads of laundry?

Always check pockets for chewing gum before washing clothes. If you find gum stuck inside your dryer, use ice to harden it and then gently scrape it off.