Anyone who has stepped in gum on the sidewalk knows just how difficult it is to get rid of the gooey mess. But what happens when you find gum on your clothes? There are a number of methods to try, but here are a couple of our favorites.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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1Step 1Hot vinegar:
In the microwave or on the stove, carefully heat about a cup of vinegar until just below boiling. Then, using a toothbrush, apply the hot vinegar to the gum on the garment and scrub. Continue this process, reheating the vinegar as necessary, until the gum is completely removed, then launder the clothing item as usual.
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2Step 2Freeze and Scrape
Fold the clothing item, taking care to keep the stuck-on gum facing out and away from the rest of the fabric, then place in the freezer. (Place the garment on top of or inside a plastic bag to limit contact with other items in the freezer—just don’t let the gum stick to the bag.) Let it sit for at least two hours to allow the gum to fully harden, then take the garment out of the freezer and immediately scrape or peel off the gum using a spoon or butter knife. If the gum begins to thaw before you’re able to completely remove it, place an ice cube in a plastic bag and let it sit on the gum for a few minutes to re-freeze.
