Simple Solutions for Sticky Situations: Gum in Carpets

Finding gum stuck in your carpet and removing gum from carpet can seem like a lot of work, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether it’s the result of an accidental drop, a playful child, or a careless step, gum can be a stubborn mess to deal with and it is a good idea to know how to remove gum from carpet.

The good news? With the right techniques and tools, you can remove gum from carpet without leaving a trace. In this article, we’ll explore some methods – from freezing and heating to spot cleaning – to help you tackle even the stickiest of situations and restore your carpet to its former glory.

Common Methods for Removing Gum from Carpet

Below are some of the more basic and common methods for removing sticky gum from carpet:

Freezing Gum to Remove It from Carpet

• Using ice to freeze gum is a widely accepted and effective method for removing gum from carpet. The frozen gum becomes brittle and can be broken apart and removed.
• Canned air, when turned upside down to spray, is also effective for freezing gum, particularly for delicate carpets.

Using Heat to Remove Gum from Carpet

• Applying heat (like a hairdryer) to melt gum can work, but it requires caution to avoid damaging synthetic fibers or wool carpets.
• Using a steam cleaner is also effective, as steam can loosen and lift the gum without requiring direct contact with the fibers.

Cautions Using a Hairdryer

• Heat Damage: High temperatures can melt or weaken synthetic and wool fibers.
• Overheating: Prolonged heat may cause discoloration or deformation.
• Uneven Results: Lacks controlled heat distribution, making gum removal harder.

A steam cleaner is safer, using heat and moisture without damaging fibers.

How to Use an Iron to Remove Gum from Carpet

1. Place a Cloth or Paper Bag Over the Gum – Use a brown paper bag, cotton cloth, or an old towel over the gum to prevent direct heat exposure.
2. Set the Iron to Low or Medium Heat – Avoid high heat to prevent melting synthetic fibers or scorching the carpet.
3. Gently Iron – Move the iron in circular motions for a few seconds (keep it moving). The heat will transfer to the gum, causing it to stick to the cloth or bag.
4. Lift the Cloth – As you lift the cloth, the softened gum should come up with it. Repeat as needed with a clean section of the cloth.
5. Clean the Residue – Use a mild carpet cleaner or rubbing alcohol to remove any leftover gum residue.

Cautions When Using an Iron

• Avoid Direct Contact with Carpet Fibers – This can melt synthetic fibers or burn natural ones.
• Keep Heat Low – Too much heat can cause discoloration or damage.
• Monitor Constantly – Never leave the iron in one spot or unattended to prevent burns or fire hazards.

Using an iron can be effective, but a steam cleaner or ice method (freezing the gum to harden it for removal) is often a safer and lower-risk option.

Using Spot Removers or Peanut Butter for Getting Gum Out of Carpets

• Spot removers, especially those designed for carpets, can help clean leftover residue after the bulk of the gum is removed.
• Peanut butter can break down the stickiness of gum, but it’s a messy solution that can leave oil stains on some carpets. If used, follow up with soap or a carpet cleaner to ensure no residue is left behind.

Caution

• Peanut Butter: While it can work, this method is messy and might cause more trouble than it solves due to its oily nature.

How to Use Ben Gay for Removing Gum from Carpet

• Muscle creams like Ben Gay may contain ingredients (like menthol or other oils) that can soften gum.

This is an unconventional suggestion and is not typically recommended by professional cleaners. The oils in muscle creams could leave a residue, requiring further cleaning.

Considerations when Removing Gum from Carpet

• Test Beforehand: Test any cleaning method on an inconspicuous area of the carpet to ensure it won’t damage or discolor the fibers.
• Material Sensitivity: For delicate or high-value rugs, such as wool or silk, it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s care instructions or hire a professional cleaner to avoid damage.
• Residue Removal: It is important to thoroughly clean the area afterward to remove any residue (from peanut butter, oils, or cleaning agents) that could attract dirt or stain the carpet over time.

For the best results, stick to freezing, spot removers, or heat (if safe for the carpet material), and always clean up thoroughly after removal.