Gum is one of the most common stains that can ruin your clothes. It can be frustrating to see gum stuck on your favorite clothes after washing them. The good news is that there are several ways to get gum out of clothes after washing. This article will guide you on how to remove gum from your clothes without damaging the fabric.
Why Does Gum Stick to Clothes?
Gum is made of a sticky substance that makes it difficult to remove from clothes. When gum gets stuck on clothes, it forms a bond with the fabric, making it hard to remove. The heat from the washing machine can also make the gum stick to the fabric even more.
What You Need to Remove Gum from Clothes
Before you start removing gum from your clothes, you need to gather some materials. Here’s what you need:
- Ice cubes
- Butter knife or spoon
- Peanut butter or vegetable oil
- Stain remover
- Washing machine
- Dryer
How to Get Gum Out of Clothes After Washing
Here are the steps to follow when removing gum from clothes after washing:
Step 1: Freeze the Gum
Take the clothes out of the washing machine and identify where the gum is stuck. Place ice cubes on the gum and let it freeze for a few minutes. The freezing will make the gum hard and brittle, making it easier to remove.
Step 2: Scrape Off the Gum
Use a butter knife or spoon to gently scrape off the frozen gum from the fabric. Be careful not to damage the fabric while doing this. If the gum is still hard to remove, repeat step 1 and let it freeze for a few more minutes.
Step 3: Apply Peanut Butter or Vegetable Oil
Apply a small amount of peanut butter or vegetable oil on the remaining gum stain. Rub the peanut butter or vegetable oil on the gum until it starts to break down. The oil will loosen the gum from the fabric.
Step 4: Wash the Clothes
After applying the peanut butter or vegetable oil, wash the clothes with a stain remover to remove any remaining gum residue. Follow the washing instructions on the label of your clothes. Use warm water and a mild detergent to avoid damaging the fabric.
Step 5: Dry the Clothes
After washing the clothes, dry them in a dryer or hang them to air dry. Avoid ironing the clothes until the gum stain is completely removed.
Other Ways to Remove Gum from Clothes After Washing
Aside from using peanut butter or vegetable oil, there are other ways to remove gum from clothes after washing. Here are some of them:
Use Vinegar
Mix equal parts of vinegar and warm water and soak the clothes in the solution for 15-20 minutes. Scrub the gum stain gently using a toothbrush and rinse with water. Wash the clothes as usual.
Use Rubbing Alcohol
Apply rubbing alcohol on the gum stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Rub the gum stain with a toothbrush and rinse with water. Wash the clothes as usual.
Use Hairspray
Spray hairspray on the gum stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Use a toothbrush to scrub the gum stain gently and rinse with water. Wash the clothes as usual.
Conclusion
Removing gum from clothes after washing is possible. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily remove gum from your clothes without damaging the fabric. Remember to be patient and gentle when removing the gum stain to avoid causing more damage to your clothes.