We have all seen the smears and stains of chewing gum that has been pressed into walls or dropped on the ground. They are unsightly, unhygienic, and difficult to get rid of. And when it gets on fabric, such as office chairs or carpet, the idea of removing it can be daunting!
Dried and stubborn lumps of chewing gum will hardly add a professional vibe to a commercial setting or workplace. Rather, it will create a negative impression on clients and customers. It may even affect employee productivity, attitudes, and their feeling of being valued— because not only can it be distracting, but it can also be disheartening and demotivating to work in an area that appears uncared for.
When chewing gum gets stuck to fabric, it can be challenging and time-consuming to remove. Professional cleaning can be beneficial as certain products and techniques can work well and prompt action can be more effective.
At Cleantastic, we are experienced in removing chewing gum from fabric and can undertake the task for you. We are also happy to provide advice so that you can learn how to get chewing gum off fabric.
Five Methods For Removing Chewing Gum From Fabric
Successfully getting rid of chewing gum from fabric can be a challenging task, but there are several methods you can try. These can include the following:
The Ice Method
The ice method is a simple technique for removing chewing gum from fabric. By directly applying ice, such as a few ice cubes in a plastic bag, the heat from the gum is reduced, which causes it to harden and become less sticky. This makes it easier to remove by gently scraping it off with a blunt tool, such as a spoon or credit card.
This method is ideal for delicate fabrics that may be easily damaged by other removal techniques. It remains important to be cautious and avoid applying too much pressure when scraping the gum off to prevent damage to the fabric.
The Heat Method
The heat method involves softening the gum to make it easier to remove. This can be done by applying heat with a hair dryer, for example, and holding it close to the gum until it becomes pliable. Once the gum is soft, it can be scraped off using a blunt tool or toothbrush.
This method can be effective on most types of fabric. It can be particularly useful for removing gum from larger areas or thicker fabrics. This method may not be suitable for delicate materials that could be damaged by high temperatures. It is important to be cautious and avoid overheating any fabric as it could cause damage and safety issues.
The Peanut Butter Method And The Coconut Oil Method
Using peanut butter or coconut oil involves applying a small amount of one of the substances to the affected area and allowing it to sit for several minutes before gently scraping off the gum. They both contain natural oils that help to break down, soften, and dissolve the gum, making it easier to remove. Just make sure you wash the fabric well after using this method, or attempting to get rid of ants may be your next problem!
The Vinegar Method
The vinegar method is a popular technique for removing chewing gum from fabric. By soaking the affected area in white vinegar for 15 to 20 minutes, the acidic properties of the vinegar help to dissolve the gum and make it easier to remove. After soaking, the gum can be scraped off using a blunt tool or toothbrush.
This method can be ideal for use on fabrics that may be damaged by stronger chemicals or solvents. White vinegar is a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to harsher cleaning products.
Before undertaking any of these suggested methods, it can be a good idea to test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to make sure they do not damage the fabric. Also, be sure to rinse or wipe the fabric well after removing the gum to clear any residue.
Prevent Chewing Gum From Getting Stuck On Fabric
Getting chewing gum on fabric can be a nuisance in the workplace, affecting both aesthetics and functionality. It can be helpful to provide proper disposal options and establish ways to discourage staff from chewing gum to prevent it from getting stuck on fabric in the first place. Teaching staff about relevant cleaning and maintenance procedures and providing useful resources to assist with prompt and safe removal from fabric can also be beneficial.
Say Goodbye To Unwanted Chewing Gum
Having to deal with chewing gum on fabrics is often not an easy task, but there are techniques that can be useful. Give them a try, call us for advice, or organise for one of our professional cleaners to come in and do it to save you time and energy! Our cleaners proudly service over 8,000 commercial cleaning clients in Melbourne, Sydney, Perth, Gold Coast, Brisbane, Adelaide and all across Australia.
