How to get gum out of sweatshirt?

Gum stuck on your sweatshirt is a common and frustrating problem. Whether it’s from accidentally sitting on gum or brushing against it, removing gum from fabric requires careful attention to avoid damaging your favorite sweatshirt. Fortunately, with the right techniques and household items, you can safely remove gum from sweatshirts without causing any harm to the material.

In this article, we will explore different methods for removing gum from a sweatshirt, whether it’s fresh or already hardened. We will also provide step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure your sweatshirt looks good as new after the gum is removed.

Why gum is hard to remove from fabric

Gum is sticky by nature, and once it attaches to fabric, it adheres to the fibers, making it difficult to remove. Additionally, gum hardens over time, which can make it even more challenging to get out. However, there are several effective methods that involve freezing, using oils, or applying heat to help loosen and remove gum from fabric without damaging it.

Tools You will need

Before starting the process, gather the following materials depending on the method you choose:

• Ice cubes or freezer
• Plastic bag
• Butter knife or spoon
• Rubbing alcohol
• Vinegar (optional)
• Dish soap or laundry detergent
• Stain remover (optional)
• Iron (optional)
• Paper towels or cloth

Method 1: Freezing the gum

The freezing method is one of the most effective ways to remove gum from a sweatshirt without causing damage. Freezing the gum hardens it, making it easier to scrape off the fabric. This method is particularly useful for fresh gum that has not yet set deeply into the fibers.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Place the sweatshirt in a plastic bag: Carefully place your sweatshirt in a plastic bag, ensuring the gum is facing outward and not touching any other parts of the fabric.
2. Freeze the sweatshirt: Put the plastic bag with the sweatshirt into the freezer and leave it there for about 2 to 3 hours. The goal is to freeze the gum completely, which makes it easier to remove.
3. Scrape off the gum: Once the gum is frozen solid, remove the sweatshirt from the freezer. Using a butter knife or spoon, gently scrape off the hardened gum. Be careful not to damage the fabric while scraping.
4. Treat any remaining residue: If there is still some gum residue on the sweatshirt, apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol to the area and rub it gently with a clean cloth. This will help dissolve the remaining gum.
5. Wash the sweatshirt: After removing the gum, wash the sweatshirt as usual with detergent to ensure any lingering residue is removed.

Method 2: Using heat to soften the gum

Applying heat is another effective way to remove gum from a sweatshirt. Heat softens the gum, allowing it to be wiped or scraped away easily. This method works well if the gum is already hardened or if freezing isn’t an option.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Place the sweatshirt on a flat surface: Lay the sweatshirt on a flat surface, ensuring the gum is accessible.
2. Place a paper towel over the gum: Place a paper towel or cloth directly on top of the gum stain.
3. Apply heat with an iron: Set your iron to a medium heat setting (make sure it’s safe for the fabric). Gently iron over the paper towel for a few seconds. The heat will soften the gum, causing it to stick to the paper towel instead of the fabric.
4. Peel the gum off: Lift the paper towel carefully, and you should see the gum come off with it. If some gum remains, repeat the process until the area is clean.
5. Wash the sweatshirt: Once the gum is completely removed, wash the sweatshirt as per the care instructions to remove any residue.

Method 3: Using oil-based products

Oil-based products, such as peanut butter or vegetable oil, can be used to break down the sticky properties of gum, making it easier to remove. This method works best for small amounts of gum and should be used with caution, as oil can leave its own stains on fabric.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Apply oil to the gum: Use a small amount of peanut butter, vegetable oil, or coconut oil and apply it directly to the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes to break down the gum’s stickiness.
2. Scrape off the gum: After letting the oil sit, use a butter knife or spoon to gently scrape away the gum. Be careful not to push the gum further into the fabric.
3. Remove the oil: To remove the oily residue left behind, apply dish soap directly to the stained area. Rub the fabric gently to break down the oil, and then rinse with warm water.
4. Wash the sweatshirt: Once the gum and oil are removed, wash the sweatshirt thoroughly in the washing machine with detergent to remove any remaining oil.

Method 4: Using rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is an effective solvent that can help dissolve gum and make it easier to remove. This method works well for both fresh and hardened gum stains.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol: Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in rubbing alcohol.
2. Apply the alcohol to the gum: Dab the alcohol onto the gum, making sure to saturate the area thoroughly.
3. Gently scrape the gum: After applying the alcohol, use a butter knife or your fingers to carefully lift and scrape away the gum. The alcohol will help dissolve the gum’s adhesive properties.
4. Wash the sweatshirt: Once the gum is gone, wash the sweatshirt in the washing machine to remove any remaining alcohol and residue.

Method 5: Using vinegar

Vinegar is a natural cleaning agent that can help soften and break down gum stuck on fabric. This method is eco-friendly and safe for most fabrics.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Heat the vinegar: Heat some white vinegar in a microwave or on the stove until it is warm (but not boiling).
2. Soak the gum in vinegar: Dip a cloth or sponge in the warm vinegar and apply it directly to the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften the gum.
3. Scrape off the gum: Use a butter knife or spoon to gently scrape away the softened gum.
4. Rinse and wash: Rinse the area with water and wash the sweatshirt to remove any vinegar smell.

Tips for success

• Test on a small area first: Before using any method, test it on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric to ensure it won’t cause damage or discoloration.
• Act quickly: The sooner you address the gum stain, the easier it will be to remove. Fresh gum is much easier to deal with than gum that has hardened over time.
• Avoid rubbing the gum: Rubbing can push the gum deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove. Always blot or scrape gently.

Q&A Section

Can I use a freezer to remove gum from a sweatshirt?

Yes, placing your sweatshirt in the freezer is one of the most effective methods for removing gum. Freezing hardens the gum, making it easier to scrape off with a butter knife or spoon. After freezing for 2 to 3 hours, gently scrape the gum away and wash the sweatshirt to remove any residue.

Will vinegar damage my sweatshirt?

Vinegar is generally safe for most fabrics, but it’s always a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. When heated, vinegar can help break down gum, making it easier to remove. Just be sure to rinse the fabric thoroughly afterward to prevent any lingering vinegar smell.

How does rubbing alcohol remove gum?

Rubbing alcohol works as a solvent to dissolve the adhesive properties of gum, making it easier to remove from fabric. Simply dab rubbing alcohol onto the gum, let it sit for a few minutes, and gently scrape away the gum. Wash the garment afterward to remove any alcohol residue.

Is it safe to use oil to remove gum from a sweatshirt?

Oil-based products like peanut butter or vegetable oil can help loosen gum, but they can also leave an oily stain on fabric. If you use this method, be sure to treat the oily area with dish soap or a stain remover afterward, and wash the sweatshirt thoroughly to remove any residue.

How do I remove gum from delicate fabrics?

For delicate fabrics, freezing the gum or using rubbing alcohol are safer methods. Avoid using oils or high heat, as these can damage delicate materials. Always test a small area before applying any cleaning agent, and handle the fabric gently to prevent damage.