How to Remove Chewing Gum From Cotton Denim

Sitting on a piece of gum or accidentally washing pants with gum in the pockets can render a gooey mess. Because of the fibers and texture of jeans, it can be doubly hard to remove chewing gum from denim. Trying to rub it out with cleansers will only push the gum deeper into the fabric. Here is a sure-fire way to put the freeze on your favorite denim garment's sticky situation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic bag
• Freezer
• Butter knife

1. Fold the denim garment carefully, with the portion that has the chewing gum on it facing upward.

2. Slip the garment into a gallon-sized zipper-top bag. If it doesn't fit, you can also use a plastic shopping bag.

3. Place the bagged garment into the freezer, and leave it there for at least four hours. The longer you leave it in, the harder the gum will become. The cold will make it stiff and inflexible.

4. Remove the garment from the freezer. The denim should be fairly stiff, and the gum should be very hard. Take the garment out of the plastic bag and set it on your work surface.

5. Use a butter knife with a rounded tip to pry the edge of the gum from the denim. Once you free one of the edges, it should come off easily. You may need to break the gum into several pieces.

6. Once all pieces of gum are removed, wash the denim garment on a color cycle in warm water to restore it back to its former shape.

References

• Remove Chewing Gum
• Remove Gum From Clothing the Eco-friendly Way