How To Get Gum Out Of A Rug

Discovering gum stuck in your rug can be a sticky situation that many households face. Acting fast is key to preventing the gum from embedding deeper into the fibres, which can cause more damage over time. But there's no need to stress or shell out for professional cleaning just yet. 

In this guide, we'll walk you through some eco-friendly and wallet-friendly techniques to tackle this tacky issue head-on. With simple, effective solutions at your fingertips, removing gum from your rug will be less of a hassle and more of a quick fix. So let's dive in and get that gum gone for good.

Identify The Gum

Identifying the type of gum stuck in your rug is an essential first step in the removal process, as different gums may need different approaches. 

- Chewing gum is soft and more pliable, so it can get stuck deep between the rug fibres. 

- Bubble gum can be extra stretchy and may spread more easily when pressed or stepped on. 

- Sugar-free gums contain synthetic bases that might react differently to removal methods. 

Before diving into removing the gum, take a moment to examine its texture, stickiness, and any other distinguishing features. This will help you to choose the most effective and gentle method to lift the gum without harming your rug. 

Prep Your Tools

For a successful gum removal, you’ll need to gather the right tools. It's important  to use these items gently to avoid damaging your rug's delicate fibres. Harsh scraping or rubbing can lead to fraying or discoloration, so always work with care and patience to preserve the integrity and appearance of your rug.

 You'll need:

1. Ice cubes - To harden the gum, making it easier to scrape off.

2. A plastic bag - To hold the ice cubes and prevent the rug from getting wet.

3. A butter knife or spoon - For gently scraping the hardened gum without cutting the rug fibres.

4. White vinegar - Acts as a natural solvent to dissolve any gum residue.

5. Soft, light-coloured cloths - For applying vinegar and dabbing the area clean.

6. A hair dryer - For heating gum to help with removal.

7. Mild dish soap or detergent - If additional cleaning is needed.

8. Commercial removal solution - As an alternative for tougher gum residue.

Methods Of Gum Removal

Freezing

To freeze the gum, wrap ice cubes or a freezer pack in a plastic bag and place it directly on the gum. 

Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes until the gum hardens. This process makes the gum less sticky and more brittle, making it easier to remove. Be careful not to wet the rug with melting ice. 

Once the gum is frozen, gently scrape it off with a butter knife or spoon. The goal is to lift the gum in chunks without pulling the rug fibres. This method is simple yet effective in preserving the condition of your rug while removing the gum.

Vinegar Solutions

If freezing the gum doesn’t work, or doesn’t entirely remove the gum from your rug, try a vinegar solution.

Mix one part white vinegar with one part water in a bowl, stirring to make sure it's well combined. The acidity of the vinegar helps break down the gum's stickiness. 

Dip a soft cloth into the solution, wring it out slightly to avoid excess liquid, and then press the cloth onto the gum. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the vinegar to act and soften the gum. 

Once it has softened, use the cloth or a butter knife to gently lift the gum from the rug fibres. If necessary, repeat the process. Take care not to saturate the rug, as excessive moisture can cause damage and mildew.

Using Heat

Using a hairdryer or a warm cloth can effectively soften gum for easier removal. Here's how to do it:

Hairdryer Method: - Plug in the hairdryer and set it to a medium heat setting. - Hold the hairdryer a few inches away from the gum, aiming the warm air directly at it. Be careful not to overheat any single area of the rug to prevent damage. - Keep checking the consistency of the gum. Once it softens, turn off the hairdryer. - Once the gum is softened, gently scrape it away with a butter knife or spoon.  - Use a clean section of the cloth to lift any residue. - Repeat if necessary.

Warm Cloth Method: - Soak a cloth in hot water and wring out excess moisture to stop the rug from getting too wet.

- Place the warm cloth over the gum, letting the heat transfer to the gum.

- Leave the cloth on the gum for a few minutes until the gum softens. - Once the gum is softened, gently scrape it away with a butter knife or spoon.  - Use a clean section of the cloth to lift any residue.

- Repeat if necessary.

Commercial Gum Removers

For those tough gum remnants, consider using specially-formulated gum removers that are safe for rugs. Products like Goo Gone and WD-40 are known for their effectiveness in breaking down gum without harming fabric. But always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure that the remover doesn't discolour or damage your rug. 

There are also eco-friendly options like natural citrus-based solvents, which can offer a less harsh alternative while still being effective against gum. Whichever product you choose, follow the instructions carefully and use sparingly to protect your rug.

Clean and Dry the Rug

After removing the gum, it's important to spot clean the affected area to remove any residue. Here's a gentle way to do it.

1. Mix a few drops of mild dish detergent with lukewarm water to create a soapy solution.

2. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the solution, wringing out excess liquid to avoid soaking the rug.

3. Gently dab the affected area with the soapy cloth, focusing on removing any left-over gum residue or cleaning product.

4. Once the area is clean, dampen a fresh cloth with clean water and blot the area to rinse out any soap.

5. Use a dry towel to blot again and absorb as much moisture as possible from the cleaned area.

But if your Ruggable rug cover is in need of an overall clean anyway, skip the spot-cleaning part and toss it straight in the washing machine. Our machine-washable rug covers take the stress out of owning a rug, so spills and other stains can be cleaned up quickly and easily.

Once you’ve washed your rug, drying it thoroughly is paramount to prevent mould and mildew growth. If possible, hang the rug out flat in a well-ventilated area. Avoid sun exposure for prolonged periods as it can cause UV damage to the fibres and negatively impact the colours and quality of your rug. Check that it's completely dry before putting it back in place on the nonslip rug pad. 

For faster indoor drying, you can use a fan or a dehumidifier to help circulate air and speed up the process. Make sure that it is either laid or hung flat and not folded to preserve the shape of the rug while it dries.