We’ve all been there — you sit down, and suddenly realize there’s sticky gum clinging to your jeans or shirt. Whether it’s a school uniform, favorite hoodie, or delicate dress, gum can seem impossible to remove once it’s stuck in fabric.
But don’t worry — learning how to get gum out of clothes isn’t as hard as it looks. With a few household items and the right technique, you can get rid of that stubborn mess without damaging your fabric or leaving behind residue.
Let’s go over some tried-and-true methods that actually work.
Why Gum Sticks to Clothes
Chewing gum contains synthetic rubber and resin — that’s why it’s soft and stretchy. Unfortunately, that also makes it cling to fibers tightly, especially on cotton or denim.
The key to removing gum successfully is to either freeze it (to harden it) or heat it (to soften it) — both make it easier to peel off cleanly.
Method 1: Freeze It Out (Best for Most Fabrics)
The freezing method is one of the safest and easiest ways to get gum out of clothes without causing damage.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Place the clothing in a plastic bag.
Make sure the gum is facing outward and not touching the bag. -
Put it in the freezer for 1–2 hours.
This hardens the gum completely. -
Scrape the gum off gently.
Use a dull knife, spoon, or credit card edge to lift off the gum. -
Wash as usual.
Once the gum is gone, wash the garment normally to remove any residue.
Pro Tip: If you can’t fit the clothing in your freezer, apply ice cubes directly to the gum until it hardens.
Method 2: Use Vinegar (Best Natural Solution)
If you prefer a natural approach, vinegar works wonders. The acid in vinegar helps break down gum’s sticky texture, making it easier to scrape away.
How to Use It:
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Heat up a cup of white vinegar in the microwave.
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Dip a toothbrush or cloth into the hot vinegar.
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Scrub the gum area gently.
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Once loosened, lift the gum with a dull knife or spoon.
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Rinse and wash normally.
Works best on jeans, cotton shirts, and durable fabrics.
Method 3: Iron It Off (Best for Smooth Fabrics)
The heat method melts the gum, allowing it to stick to something else — like a paper bag or cardboard sheet.
Here’s How:
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Lay the clothing gum-side down on a piece of cardboard or paper bag.
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Set your iron to medium heat (no steam).
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Gently iron over the back of the fabric for 10–15 seconds.
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Lift the cloth — the gum should transfer to the paper.
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Wash the garment to remove any leftover gum oils.
Avoid using high heat on delicate fabrics like silk or rayon.
Method 4: Peanut Butter Trick (Yes, It Works!)
It might sound odd, but peanut butter is an old-school favorite for removing gum. The oils in peanut butter reduce gum’s stickiness, allowing it to slide off.
Directions:
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Cover the gum completely with peanut butter.
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Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
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Scrape gently with a spoon.
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Rinse off the peanut butter using dish soap and warm water.
Works best for thicker fabrics like denim or jackets.
Method 5: Use Rubbing Alcohol or WD-40 (For Stubborn Gum)
If the gum won’t budge, try rubbing alcohol or WD-40 — both can dissolve the adhesive properties.
Steps:
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Spray or dab the product directly onto the gum.
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Let it sit for a minute.
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Gently scrape it off with a dull knife.
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Wash the area with detergent afterward to remove any chemical residue.
Always test these products on a small, hidden area first to prevent discoloration.
What Not to Do
When removing gum from clothes, avoid these common mistakes:
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Don’t use boiling water — it can set the gum deeper.
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Don’t rub or smear the gum — it’ll spread the mess.
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Don’t use bleach unless necessary — it can weaken fabrics.
FAQs About Getting Gum Out of Clothes
1. Can ice remove gum from clothes?
Yes! Freezing or applying ice hardens gum, making it easier to scrape off.
2. Does vinegar remove gum effectively?
Absolutely. The acid in vinegar helps loosen the gum from fabric fibers.
3. Is it safe to use WD-40 on clothes?
Yes, but always test it first on a small hidden area and wash afterward.
4. How do I remove gum from delicate fabrics?
Try the freezing method first, then gently peel it off without scraping hard.
5. Can I put the stained clothes in the dryer after?
No — make sure all gum residue is gone first. Heat can set any leftover gum permanently.
Conclusion: Say Goodbye to Sticky Situations
Getting gum stuck on your clothes might feel like a disaster, but with a little patience and the right method, it’s completely fixable. Whether you freeze it, heat it, or use vinegar, now you know how to get gum out of clothes without damaging your favorite outfit.
