How to Remove Gum from Fabric: No More Sticky Situations

Gum on your favorite clothes or upholstery? It happens — and it’s the kind of mess that seems impossible to fix without making it worse. But don’t worry, Lone Star Spotless Cleaners has the tools (and tricks) to remove gum from fabric without leaving behind a sticky residue or tearing your material to shreds.

Freeze It First

One of the oldest and best tricks: freeze the gum to make it hard and brittle. You can do this by placing an ice cube directly on the gum or putting the entire item in a plastic bag and sticking it in the freezer. Once the gum is solid, use a dull knife or spoon to gently scrape it off the fabric.

Use Vinegar for Leftover Residue

If some sticky residue remains after scraping, heat a little white vinegar, soak a cloth in it, and gently rub the area. The acidity helps break down what’s left of the gum. Just test a hidden spot first if you’re dealing with colored fabric, as vinegar can sometimes cause fading.

Try Rubbing Alcohol for Synthetic Fabrics

If vinegar doesn’t work, try rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer, especially on synthetic materials. Dab it on the gum stain and blot gently with a cloth. This can dissolve the gum without damaging the fabric fibers — just rinse the area thoroughly afterward.

Wash It Like Normal (With Caution)

Once the gum is removed, wash the item according to the care label — but skip the dryer until you’re sure the stain is completely gone. Heat can set any leftover residue. If you’re cleaning upholstery, blot with clean water and pat dry after treatment to avoid moisture damage.

Let Us Handle the Sticky Stuff

Not in the mood to play fabric surgeon? We got you. Lone Star Spotless Cleaners provides gum removal and fabric-safe stain treatment services in Houston, so you don’t have to stress over stuck-on messes. From sofas to school uniforms, we’ll leave your fabrics fresh and gum-free.