Removing dried gum from clothing can be tricky, but it's definitely achievable with the right methods. The key is to harden the gum or break down its stickiness before attempting to remove it. The YouTube video, "How to easily remove chewed gum from clothing #shorts," suggests that the gum's stickiness soaks into the clothing. Here's how to tackle this problem:
Methods for Removing Dried Gum
Here's a breakdown of several effective methods:
Freezing
This method is particularly effective for dried gum:
- Harden the Gum: Place the garment in a plastic bag (ensuring the gum doesn't stick to the bag) and put it in the freezer for a few hours.
- Remove the Gum: Once the gum is frozen solid, carefully peel it off the fabric. Use a dull knife or the edge of a credit card to help lift it.
- Clean any Residue: If any small bits remain, try rubbing the spot with a bit of the detergent or using a stain remover.
Ironing
This method involves transferring the gum to a different material:
- Prepare: Place the garment with the gum on an ironing board. Place a piece of cardboard over the gum and use a thin piece of paper between the gum and cardboard.
- Iron: Iron over the paper and gum with a medium-low heat. The gum will soften and transfer to the paper.
- Clean Any Residue: If any bits remain, try using the freezing method or another stain remover.
Chemical Methods
- Vinegar: Heat white vinegar and apply it directly to the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes and try to scrape the gum off.
- Rubbing Alcohol: Dab rubbing alcohol onto the gum and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before attempting to remove.
- Detergent: Apply a bit of your laundry detergent and let it sit for some time. This can help loosen the gum’s grip from the fibers.
Professional Cleaning
If none of the home methods work, consider bringing your garment to a dry cleaner for professional treatment.
Tips and Precautions
- Act quickly: The sooner you attempt to remove the gum, the higher the chances of complete removal.
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Be careful using harsh chemicals which can damage your clothing. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the gum.
- Don't rub: When removing the gum, do not rub vigorously. Instead, try to scrape or gently peel it off to prevent spreading the sticky residue further.
- Patience is key: Removing dried gum may take some time. Don't get frustrated if it doesn’t come off immediately.
| Method | How it Works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing | Hardens the gum, making it easier to peel off. | Most types of fabric |
| Ironing | Transfers the gum onto another surface through heat. | Works well with tougher fabrics |
| Chemical | Breakdown the gum's stickiness, allowing for easier removal. | More effective on smaller gum pieces |
| Professional | Uses professional-grade cleaning agents to remove stubborn gum. | Heavily soiled or delicate clothing |
