Removing chewing gum stuck on clothes, hair or floor
It's the classic disaster. Above all, do not pull when it's soft!
Recommended Materials
- Ice cubes
- Hot white vinegar
- Oil (for hair)
- Round knife
Steps to follow
Step 1
On a garment (The cold method): Do not scrape the chewing gum while it is soft and sticky, you will embed it in the fibers. Put the garment in a plastic bag and place it in the freezer for 2 hours. The chewing gum will freeze and become hard as stone. Take it out and scrape it immediately with a round-tipped knife or a spoon. It should break and peel off in crumbs.
Step 2
On a rug or carpet (The ice cube): You can't put the rug in the fridge. Take an ice cube in a plastic bag (so as not to wet the rug) and rub it directly on the chewing gum for 5-10 minutes until it hardens. Then scrape.
Step 3
In hair (The fat method): It's panic, but DO NOT CUT! Isolate the lock. Generously coat the chewing gum and the hair around it with a fatty substance: cooking oil, olive oil, peanut butter or even mayonnaise. The fat will dissolve the gum. Massage gently to slide the chewing gum along the hair. Use a fine comb to remove residues. Shampoo afterwards.
Step 4
On a shoe sole: Use an ice cube to harden, or spray penetrating oil (WD-40 type) which dissolves the glue. Scrape with an old knife.
Step 5
Hot white vinegar: If cold doesn't work on a resistant fabric (jeans), boil white vinegar. Soak the area and scrub with a toothbrush. Heat and acidity will dissolve the gum.
Frequently Asked Questions
A greasy stain remains after removing the chewing gum ?
It's normal (sugar and dyes). Treat it like a classic grease stain: rub with Marseille soap or sprinkle with Sommières earth before washing.
Precautions
- Do not put oil on fragile clothing (silk).
- Do not cut hair!
