How to Remove Chewing Gum from Hair

She'd better not get too close -- but if she does, it's an easy fix.

It's happened to every kid on the block: A big chunk of chewing gum stuck in the hair. No parent likes to deal with it, and if you try to pick it out, you'll just frustrate yourself, rip out your child's hair -- and soon everyone will be in tears. Fortunately, chewing gum stuck in your hair is a very easy problem to fix -- and you can put the scissors away.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Clips or bobby pins
• Spoon
• Peanut butter

1. Have your child sit still on a chair.

2. Move any excess "gum-free" hair away from the gummy area, using clips or bobby pins. The idea is to isolate the problem area so it's easier for you to work.

3. Spoon out a small amount of peanut butter, about as large as the wad of gum, or a bit larger, and rub it directly onto the gum. Work it into the gummy area with your fingers, as best you can.

4. Let it sit for a minute or two, to allow the oils some time to loosen the gum.

5. Pick the gum and peanut butter out of the hair as gently as possible. Be careful not to pull too hard. Apply more peanut butter, and repeat as many times as necessary to remove the gum.

6. Wash your child's hair as you usually do.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child is allergic to peanuts, mayonnaise or olive oil can be used in a similar way.

References

• Housekeeping Here: Tips to Remove Chewing Gum From Hair