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How to Remove Gum From Fabric Download Article Get rid of pesky gum stains on blankets, clothing items, & more Explore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE 1 Freeze the gum. 2 Spray hairspray on the area. 3 Use vinegar. 4 Try lemon juice. 5 Apply some mayonnaise. 6 Try rubbing alcohol. 7 Use an iron. 8 Use a steamer. + Show 5 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A VideoWATCH NOW Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH and Annabelle Reyes
Last Updated: February 19, 2026 Fact Checked
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This article was co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Annabelle Reyes. Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 506,741 times.
If you've discovered sticky gum on your favorite blanket or clothing item, you may feel like you'll never be able to get it off. Fortunately, there are several easy ways to remove gum from fabric, and you probably have everything you'll need in your kitchen already! We’ll go over all the best ways to remove gum from fabric, from freezing it off to soaking it in hot vinegar. Keep reading for everything you need to know!
How to Get Gum Off of Fabric
If you’re removing gum from a small item, fold it and place it in the freezer with the gum facing upward. If the item won’t fit in the freezer, hold an ice cube or ice pack to the gum until it hardens. Once the gum is frozen, pick it off with your fingers or scrape it off with a dull knife, then launder as normal.
Steps
1
Freeze the gum.
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When gum gets super cold, it hardens and becomes less sticky. This makes it much easier to remove. If you’re removing the gum from a small clothing item or blanket, simply fold it and place it in the freezer with the gum facing upward for an hour or two.[1]XResearch source If the item is too big to fit in the freezer, hold an ice cube or ice pack to the gum until it hardens (this should take about 10-15 minutes).
Once the gum has completely hardened, use your fingers to pick it off of the fabric. You can also use a dull butter knife, spatula, or credit card to gently scrape the gum away.[2]XResearch source
If there is any remaining gum residue stuck to the fabric, apply a small amount of dry-cleaning fluid to the area, or spray it with a pre-wash treatment, and sponge the area until it’s not sticky anymore.[3]XResearch source
Finally, place the item in the washing machine or handwash it according to the instructions listed on the care label.[4]XResearch source
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Spray hairspray on the area.
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Hairspray hardens the gum in the same way that freezing does. Spray the hairspray directly onto the gum stain, and allow it to harden for a few seconds. You should now be able to simply pop the gum off with your fingers, but you can also pry it off with a blunt butter knife or spatula if you prefer.[5]XResearch source
Ensure that the hairspray won't damage the fabric by patch testing a small, unnoticeable area before you begin.
3
Use vinegar.
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Vinegar will help dissolve and soften the gum. Pour some white vinegar into a microwave safe bowl. Heat the vinegar up in the microwave until it’s warm, but not super hot or boiling (this should take about 15-30 seconds). Place the part of the fabric with the gum into the bowl with the vinegar, and let it soak for a few minutes.[6]XResearch source You should now be able to easily scrape the gum off with a butter knife or any other blunt edge.
If there are any residual pieces of gum on the fabric, rub the area with a soft toothbrush. The clumps will stick to the toothbrush and lift off of the fabric.
As soon as you’ve removed the gum, wash the item as you normally would in the washing machine or by hand.
If you’re worried about discoloration or damage, patch test the vinegar on a small, unnoticeable area before soaking the fabric. If there’s no noticeable change, you should be good to go!
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Try lemon juice.
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A quick soak in some lemon juice will make the gum easier to scrape off. Simply pour your lemon juice into a bowl, then dip the part of the fabric with the gum into it. Let the gum soak for a few minutes, then remove it from the lemon juice. Use a blunt edge to scrape the gum off of the fabric, then launder the item as normal according to the instructions on the care label.[7]XResearch source
The lemon juice shouldn’t cause any discoloration to the fabric, but you should wash the item as soon as you’re done removing the gum, just to be safe.[8]XResearch source
5
Apply some mayonnaise.
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It may sound strange, but mayonnaise works wonders on gum stains. Just pour a small amount of mayo onto the gum, and massage it into the fabric with your fingers. You should now be able to peel the gum off smoothly and easily.[9]XResearch source
Keep in mind that mayo has a high oil content, and you may have trouble removing oil stains from delicate fabrics.
Because of this, it may be best to save this option for a last resort, or only use it on items that can withstand a strong stain-fighting treatment afterwards.
If you don’t have mayonnaise, peanut butter should work the same way, since it also has a high oil content.
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Try rubbing alcohol.
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Rubbing alcohol breaks down gum and makes it less sticky. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub it into the gum until it’s thoroughly wet. Let the rubbing alcohol sit on the gum for about 45 seconds, then press a piece of duct tape onto the area. As you remove the duct tape, the gum should lift off of the fabric and stick to the piece of tape.[10]XResearch source
Keep pressing the duct tape onto the area over and over again until all the gum is lifted off of the fabric.[11]XResearch source
7
Use an iron.
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The heat from your iron softens the gum, making it easier to remove. Start by placing a piece of cardboard on your ironing board or another flat surface. Next, lay the item on top of the cardboard with the gum facing down. Set your iron to medium heat, then run it over the garment. Once the heat has softened the gum, gently peel the garment away from the cardboard. The gum should stick to the cardboard, leaving your item clean and gum-free.[12]XResearch source
Make sure your iron isn’t too hot! The medium setting will be hot enough to soften the gum without melting it (which makes it harder to remove).[13]XResearch source
Only apply the iron to the area for 15-30 seconds at a time. This also helps prevent the gum from melting and becoming too sticky.
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Use a steamer.
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Try warming up the gum with steam. If you have a handheld steamer, simply turn it on and aim the steam at the gum to warm it up. If you don’t have a steamer, heat up some water in a tea kettle and hold the gum-stained area near the spout as it releases steam. The heat should soften the gum and make it easier to scrape off with a blunt edge.[14]XResearch source
Join the Discussion...
How to get gum out of my clothing WikiFawnSeeker757 I’m going to keep it short. My child loves gum. My child is not good at disposing of gum. I’ve got gum in my shirt and jeans for what feels like the fourth time this year. Is there a lifehack for getting gums out of fabric? And please don’t tell me “stop giving your child gum.” I’ve already gone this route and they just seem to keep getting their hands on it despite my best efforts. Read More Courtney Jacobs Cleaning Specialist The most effective method is to freeze it! Place the clothing in a plastic bag, put it in the freezer for 1-2 hours, and then scrape it off with a dull knife or spoon. If there is remaining residue, use a little bit of vinegar or rubbing alcohol and then wash like normal.You can also try to use a hot blow dryer on it and scrape off with a dull knife or spoon. Then use a little dish soap or stain remover and wash like normal.For super stubborn gum, you can add a little peanut butter, WD-40 or coconut oil directly onto the gum. Wait a few minutes and then scrape off with a dull knife or spoon. Just be sure to pre-treat the oil spot before throwing it in the wash if you do this method! Hope that helps!! Read More WikiDesertWatcher959 What has worked for me in the past is pouring a generous amount of detergent on the gum, letting it soak for a few minutes, and then pouring salt on it and scrubbing it until it comes out! This has worked for wet and dry gum. Read More See all 7 Replies and Read Discussion
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Question How do you remove chewing gum from clothes at home? Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Expert Answer You can first try to freeze the gum for about 10-15 minutes before trying to pry it off with a knife and a spatula. Small items can easily fit in the freezer, but large items will require ice cubes. You can also try to soak the item in a hot vinegar and lemon juice bath. In addition, you can try items such as peanut butter, or mineral spirits. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 3 Helpful 5
Question How do you get gum out of upholstery? Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Expert Answer Since upholstery is rather big and bulky, you should first try using ice cubes to freeze the gum. If you can lay the item on the floor and rest a bag of ice cubes on it, that would be easiest. If not, you can try to hold a bag of ice cubes with a towel in your hand until the gum has hardened. Then, try to pry the gum off with a butter knife and spatula. If that does not work, you can try to harden the gum with hairspray. Be sure to check that the hairspray will not damage your item. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 4
Question What should I do if my sheets are white? Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Expert Answer Regardless of color, you should be able to freeze the gum on your sheets. You can try to put the entire sheet in the freezer by folding it up with the gum stain on top. After the gum has hardened, you can pick off or scrape the gum away. If that does not work, it is recommended to try some of the other options recommended in the article. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 2 Helpful 4
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Avoid heating the gum using a hair dryer. This will work the gum into the fibers of the fabric which will actually make it harder to remove. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
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Co-authored by: Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner This article was co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Annabelle Reyes. Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This article has been viewed 506,741 times. 2 votes - 100% Co-authors: 34Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 506,741 Categories: Cleaning Fabric | Food StainsArticle SummaryX
To remove gum from fabrics, fold the fabric so the gum is on the outside and place the fabric in your freezer for 1-2 hours until the gum hardens. If you can't fit the fabric in the freezer, put an ice cube or ice pack directly on the gum for 10-15 minutes. Next, use your fingers to pick off as much hardened gum as you can, then use a butter knife or spatula to scrape away the remaining bits. Remove any residue with mineral spirits before cleaning the fabric according to the normal care instructions. To learn more, like how to get gum out of leather fabrics, keep reading the article!Did this summary help you?YesNo
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Reader Success Stories
Joy Christiansen
Jun 28, 2018
"cloth with gum soaking in hot vinegar...it only took about 15-20 minutes and it came off beautifully. Thanks so much!"..." more
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Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission.Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Co-authors: 34Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 506,741100% of readers found this article helpful. 2 votes - 100% Click a star to add your vote
Joy Christiansen
Jun 28, 2018
"cloth with gum soaking in hot vinegar...it only took about 15-20 minutes and it came off beautifully. Thanks so much!"..." more
Anonymous
Jun 17, 2017
"I didn't try the other methods, as step 1 did the trick, but I appreciate all the options offered to your readers!"..." more
Sheila Jones
May 8, 2017
"I put the ice cub on the fabric and it took the gum out of the fabric! Thanks!"
Anonymous
Feb 4, 2017
"Using ice worked the best. Thanks!" Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories
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Download Article Get rid of pesky gum stains on blankets, clothing items, & more Explore this Article IN THIS ARTICLE 1 Freeze the gum. 2 Spray hairspray on the area. 3 Use vinegar. 4 Try lemon juice. 5 Apply some mayonnaise. 6 Try rubbing alcohol. 7 Use an iron. 8 Use a steamer. + Show 5 more... - Show less... Other Sections Expert Q&A VideoWATCH NOW Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Article Summary Co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH and Annabelle Reyes 
WikiFawnSeeker757 I’m going to keep it short. My child loves gum. My child is not good at disposing of gum. I’ve got gum in my shirt and jeans for what feels like the fourth time this year. Is there a lifehack for getting gums out of fabric? And please don’t tell me “stop giving your child gum.” I’ve already gone this route and they just seem to keep getting their hands on it despite my best efforts. Read More 
Courtney Jacobs Cleaning Specialist The most effective method is to freeze it! Place the clothing in a plastic bag, put it in the freezer for 1-2 hours, and then scrape it off with a dull knife or spoon. If there is remaining residue, use a little bit of vinegar or rubbing alcohol and then wash like normal.You can also try to use a hot blow dryer on it and scrape off with a dull knife or spoon. Then use a little dish soap or stain remover and wash like normal.For super stubborn gum, you can add a little peanut butter, WD-40 or coconut oil directly onto the gum. Wait a few minutes and then scrape off with a dull knife or spoon. Just be sure to pre-treat the oil spot before throwing it in the wash if you do this method! Hope that helps!! Read More 
WikiDesertWatcher959 What has worked for me in the past is pouring a generous amount of detergent on the gum, letting it soak for a few minutes, and then pouring salt on it and scrubbing it until it comes out! This has worked for wet and dry gum. Read More See all 7 Replies and Read Discussion 
The Best Ways to Get Gum off of Leather Furniture, Car Seats, & More 
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Co-authored by: Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner This article was co-authored by Michelle Driscoll, MPH and by wikiHow staff writer, Annabelle Reyes. Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This article has been viewed 506,741 times. 2 votes - 100% Co-authors: 34 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 506,741 Categories: Cleaning Fabric | Food Stains Article SummaryX
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When gum gets super cold, it hardens and becomes less sticky. This makes it much easier to remove. If you’re removing the gum from a small clothing item or blanket, simply fold it and place it in the freezer with the gum facing upward for an hour or two.[1] If the item is too big to fit in the freezer, hold an ice cube or ice pack to the gum until it hardens (this should take about 10-15 minutes). 
Hairspray hardens the gum in the same way that freezing does. Spray the hairspray directly onto the gum stain, and allow it to harden for a few seconds. You should now be able to simply pop the gum off with your fingers, but you can also pry it off with a blunt butter knife or spatula if you prefer.[5] 
Rubbing alcohol breaks down gum and makes it less sticky. Dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and rub it into the gum until it’s thoroughly wet. Let the rubbing alcohol sit on the gum for about 45 seconds, then press a piece of duct tape onto the area. As you remove the duct tape, the gum should lift off of the fabric and stick to the piece of tape.[10] 
The heat from your iron softens the gum, making it easier to remove. Start by placing a piece of cardboard on your ironing board or another flat surface. Next, lay the item on top of the cardboard with the gum facing down. Set your iron to medium heat, then run it over the garment. Once the heat has softened the gum, gently peel the garment away from the cardboard. The gum should stick to the cardboard, leaving your item clean and gum-free.[12] 
Try warming up the gum with steam. If you have a handheld steamer, simply turn it on and aim the steam at the gum to warm it up. If you don’t have a steamer, heat up some water in a tea kettle and hold the gum-stained area near the spout as it releases steam. The heat should soften the gum and make it easier to scrape off with a blunt edge.[14] 
Michelle Driscoll, MPH Professional Cleaner Michelle Driscoll is a professional cleaner based in Fort Collins, Colorado. With over 7 years of experience, Michelle is the founder of Mulberry Maids, specializing in cleaning homes and small offices. Mulberry Maids services Northern Colorado, including Fort Collins and Loveland, and offers a variety of services, including commercial cleaning, move-in and move-out cleaning, and regular home cleaning. Michelle holds a Master's in Public Health from the Colorado School of Public Health. Additionally, Mulberry Maids has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. 
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