Finding gum stuck to your carpet can be a real headache. It may have happened if you accidentally walked on a gum piece or perhaps if your children were a little careless with their bubble gum. Whatever the reason, don’t panic! In this article, we’ll explore 4 easy and simple methods of how to get gum out of carpet without causing damage. So, let’s start exploring these steps.
Easy Methods to Get Gum Out of Carpet
Take action quickly. Gum becomes more difficult to remove the longer it lies on your carpet. So pick up your tools, and let’s get started!
The Freeze and Scrape Technique
This method works well for fresh gum and is perfect for carpet floor tiles or delicate fibers like sisal.
What you’ll need:
- Ice cubes
- A plastic bag
- A butter knife or spoon
Steps:
- Place a few ice cubes in a plastic bag.
- Lay the bag of ice straight on the gum.
- Give it roughly 15 minutes.
- Gently scrape off the gum using a butter knife or spoon once it has frozen and hardened.
- Vacuum up any remaining bits.
The cold hardens the gum and reduces its stickiness, making it easier to remove without spreading it further into the carpet fibers.
The WD-40 Wonder
WD-40 isn’t just for squeaky doors or bolts! It can also help you tackle stubborn gum on your carpet. It is the fastest method to remove gum from a carpet.
What you’ll need:
- WD-40
- A clean white cloth
- Dish soap
- Warm water
Steps:
- Apply a small amount of WD-40 directly to the gum.
- Let it break down the gum’s stickiness for a few minutes.
- Working carefully, use the cloth to remove the gum from the carpet fibers.
- Once the gum is gone, mix a little dish soap into warm water.
- Thoroughly clean the area to get any WD-40 residue gone.
- Blot dry with a clean towel.
WD-40 helps in gum dissolution, therefore facilitating removal. Just be careful to wipe the area thoroughly later on to prevent leaving a greasy stain. Do not leave the WD-40 on the gum for more than 10 to 15 minutes.
The Hair Dryer Heat Treatment
Heat can be just as effective as cold when it comes to gum removal. This method works well on stair carpets where ice might be tricky to balance.
What you’ll need:
- A hairdryer
- A plastic bag or piece of parchment paper
- A butter knife or scraper
Steps:
- Turn your hairdryer’s heat to the highest.
- Aim the hot air directly at the gum for about 30 seconds.
- Over the gum lay the plastic bag or parchment paper.
- Continue heating through the barrier for another 30 seconds.
- Slowly peel away the bag or paper. Most of the gum will stick to it.
- Use the knife or scraper to remove any leftover bits.
The heat softens the gum, transferring it to plastic or paper. Be careful not to overheat the carpet; this could damage the fibers.
The Vinegar Solution
Vinegar is an excellent choice for individuals who like natural cleaning methods, particularly for red carpets, if you wish to avoid strong chemicals.
What you’ll need:
- White vinegar
- A clean cloth
- Warm water
Steps:
- Take 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and warm water in a bowl.
- Dip the cloth into the mixture, and then wring off extra liquid.
- Place the damp cloth over the gum and let it sit for 15 minutes.
- Using a butter knife or spoon, gently scratch the gum.
- Continue as needed until all the gum has disappeared.
- Clean the area with fresh water, then blot dry.
Vinegar makes the gum less sticky, making it simpler to remove. It is the easiest method for removing gum from the carpet. Moreover, with this method, most types of carpet rugs are safe because they leave no dangerous residue.
Conclusion
Gum on your carpet doesn’t have to spell disaster. With these four easy methods of how to get gum out of the carpet, you can resolve this situation quickly and effectively. You now have the skills to maintain the best appearance of your carpets whether you decide to freeze, heat, dissolve, or naturally clean the gum away.
Remember that working quickly and gently with your carpet fibers will help you succeed. To be sure any cleaning technique won’t ruin or discolor your carpet, first test it on a small, invisible area. Your carpet will be clean and ready for whatever life throws at it next when you have that gum out in no time with a little patience and the right method.
