Simple Solutions for Sticky Situations: Gum in Carpets

Finding gum stuck in your carpet can feel like a disaster, 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.

4 Methods for Removing Gum from Carpet

Freezing the Gum (Cold Method)

• 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.

Heating the Gum (Hot Method)

• 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.

Spot Removers and Peanut Butter

• 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.

Muscle Creams (e.g., Ben Gay)

• Muscle creams may contain ingredients (like menthol or other oils) that can soften gum. However, this is not a widely recommended method and could leave an oily residue on the carpet, requiring further cleaning.

Additional 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.

Questionable Recommendations

• Peanut Butter: While it can work, this method is messy and might cause more trouble than it solves due to its oily nature.
• Ben Gay: This is an unconventional suggestion and is not typically recommended by professional cleaners. The oils in muscle creams could leave a stain.

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