When candy or gum stain clothing, they create one of the more difficult stains to remove with basic cleaning methods. Candy and gum often stick to fabric in thick masses and sink into the clothing fibers. They also contain colorful dyes that make the stains even more complex. This does not mean you have to give up and toss the clothing. Tackle the stains in different phases.
Things You'll Need
Ice
Butter knife
Liquid detergent
White cloth or paper towel
1/3 cup white vinegar
Bucket
Sponge
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Step 1
Place an ice cube directly on any sticky candy or gum stains. Keep the ice cube in place until the candy or gum hardens.
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Step 2
Slide the blade of a butter knife directly under the hardened spot. Pry the candy or gum gently until the entire substance is removed.
Step 3
Apply a thin, even layer of liquid detergent directly onto the stain. Rinse the entire clothing item in hot water until the detergent is removed.
Step 4
Mix 1/3 cup of white vinegar and 2/3 cup of warm water. Dip a white cloth or paper towel into the mixture and dab it gently on the stain. Dampen a sponge with water and press it gently against the stain to remove the vinegar mixture from the clothing.
Step 5
Inspect the clothing item and apply another layer of liquid detergent if the stain remains. Rinse again. Transfer the item to your washing machine and launder with a capful of liquid detergent and hot water.
Tip
If the clothing care tag states the item can be safely bleached, soak it in 1 tablespoon liquid bleach and 1 gallon of warm water for 15 minutes after you rinse away the detergent but before you launder for a more intensive stain removal treatment.
Warning
Do not attempt to remove stains on clothing items that are marked as “dry-clean only.” Take them to the dry cleaner or you could permanently damage the fabric.
Do not dry clothing in a hot dryer if the stain is not completely removed. The heat could cook the stain into the fabric and make it permanent.