How to Remove Gum from Carpet

If you discover gum on your carpet, it is wise to remove it immediately before it turns into a permanent unsightly sticky mess. You may be tempted to pull the chewing gum off the carpet, but this can damage the carpet’s fibres and still leave behind some sticky pieces of the gum. Check out the following tips on how to remove gum from your carpet. 

Using Ice Cubes to Remove Chewing Gum from Carpets

The freezing effect of ice cubes can be used in removing chewing gum from your carpet. Take a few ice cubes, place in a plastic bag and hold onto the gum allowing it to harden and freeze.  This will make it easier to pluck off the carpet. After freezing the gum, you should lift it gently from the edges to prevent potential damage to the fibres of the carpet. This method often leaves some traces of the chewing gum, which can be further removed by gently scrapping using a blunt butter knife.  Vacuum the area to remove any remaining pieces of detached gum. 

Using a Hair Dryer to Remove Chewing Gum from Carpets

Use a hair dryer to warm the gum stuck on your carpet to soften it. When the chewing gum begins to soften, you can use a plastic bag or a piece of soft cloth to gently lift it away from the carpet. The lifting process should be done slowly after considerable softening to avoid causing damage to the carpet fibres. The first removal may not be adequate, and you should repeat the process till all the gum has been lifted off the carpet. While repeating the procedure wait till the gum begins to harden before reapplying the heat. If your carpet is made of synthetic or woollen material you should apply the hot air with caution to avoid melting the carpet’s fibres. 

Using Rug Doctor Spot Remover to Remove Remaining Residue

Once the gum has been removed you can use the Rug Doctor Spot Remover to get rid of any remaining sticky residue that is left over from the gum.  Simply follow the directions on the bottle.

See our Stain Removal Guide for further information.

http://www.rugdoctor.co.nz/support/stain-removal-guide/