Methods to Remove Gum from Blanket
Gum stuck on a blanket can be a frustrating situation, but there are several methods you can try to effectively remove it. Here are some tried and tested approaches that can help you tackle this sticky problem:
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Freezing Method
Place the blanket in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. Put it in the freezer for a few hours until the gum hardens. Once it has hardened, take the blanket out and gently scrape off the gum with a butter knife or credit card.
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Heating Method
Carefully heat the gum using a blow dryer on low heat or by placing a cloth soaked in warm water over the affected area. Once the gum becomes soft, use a cloth or paper towel to wipe it away. Be cautious not to burn the blanket, especially if it is made of delicate fabric.
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Peanut Butter Method
Apply a generous amount of peanut butter directly onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. The oils in peanut butter will help break down the gum’s adhesive properties. Then, use a cloth or paper towel to wipe away the gum and the peanut butter residue. Wash the blanket afterward to remove any lingering peanut butter.
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Vinegar Method
Soak a cloth or sponge in white vinegar and dab the gum with it. Let the vinegar sit on the gum for a few minutes to loosen its grip. Use a cloth to wipe away the gum. Rinse the blanket with water and wash it normally to get rid of the vinegar smell.
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Rubbing Alcohol Method
Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol onto a clean cloth and gently rub the gum. The alcohol will dissolve the gum, making it easier to remove. Once the gum is gone, wash the blanket to eliminate any residue.
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Lemon Juice Method
Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. The acid in the lemon juice will break down the gum. Use a cloth to wipe away the gum and then wash the blanket to remove the lemon juice.
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Dish Soap Method
Mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water to create a soapy solution. Apply the solution to the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently rub the gum with a cloth or sponge until it comes off. Rinse the blanket thoroughly to remove any soap residue.
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WD-40 Method
Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto the gum and let it sit for a minute or two. Use a cloth to wipe away the gum and any WD-40 residue. Afterward, wash the blanket to remove the WD-40 smell.
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Hair Spray Method
Spray a thin layer of hairspray directly onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. The chemicals in the hairspray will make the gum easier to remove. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe away the gum residue, and then wash the blanket to get rid of any hairspray residue.
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Goo Gone Method
Apply a small amount of Goo Gone onto the gum and let it sit for a few minutes. The product will break down the gum’s adhesive properties. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe away the gum and any residue. Make sure to wash the blanket afterward to eliminate any lingering scent from the Goo Gone.
Now that you have an arsenal of methods to remove gum from a blanket, you can tackle this sticky challenge with confidence. Remember to choose a method that is suitable for the type of fabric your blanket is made of and always test the method on a small, inconspicuous area first. With a little patience and the right approach, you can say goodbye to gum and enjoy your clean and gum-free blanket once again.
Freezing Method
The freezing method is an effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Place the blanket in a plastic bag and seal it tightly. This step is essential to prevent the gum from spreading or getting stuck on other parts of the blanket.
2. Put the bagged blanket in the freezer for a few hours until the gum hardens. Freezing the gum will make it easier to remove, as it becomes less sticky and more brittle.
3. Once the gum has frozen, take the blanket out of the freezer and carefully remove it from the bag. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fabric.
4. Use a butter knife or a credit card to gently scrape off the gum. Start from the edge and work your way towards the center. Apply minimal pressure to prevent tearing or snagging the blanket.
5. If the gum is not coming off easily, place the blanket back in the freezer for a bit longer and then repeat the scraping process.
6. After successfully removing the gum, inspect the blanket for any remaining residue. If there are any small bits of gum left, you can use an ice cube to freeze them one final time and then scrape them off.
7. Once you have removed all the gum, make sure to wash the blanket according to its care instructions to eliminate any lingering stickiness or odor.
It’s important to note that the freezing method works best on fabrics that are not sensitive to extreme temperatures. Avoid using this method on delicate fabrics that may be damaged by the freezing process.
The freezing method is a quick and easy way to remove gum from a blanket without resorting to harsh chemicals or solvents. By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of gum and restore your blanket to its gum-free glory!
Heating Method
The heating method is another effective technique for removing gum from a blanket. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare your tools: You’ll need a blow dryer and a cloth or paper towel.
2. Carefully heat the gum: Use the blow dryer on low heat setting to warm up the gum. Keep the blow dryer at a safe distance from the blanket to avoid damaging the fabric.
3. Apply heat evenly: Move the blow dryer in a back-and-forth motion to evenly heat the gum. This will help soften the gum and make it easier to remove.
4. Test the gum: After a few minutes of heating, test the gum’s responsiveness. Gently press the gum with a cloth or paper towel. If the gum feels soft and pliable, proceed to the next step.
5. Remove the gum: Use the cloth or paper towel to wipe away the gum. Start from the outer edge and work your way towards the center. Apply light pressure to avoid spreading the gum or damaging the fabric.
6. Repeat if necessary: If the gum doesn’t come off completely, repeat the heating process for a bit longer. Heating the gum for an extended period will further soften it, making it easier to remove.
7. Clean the blanket: After successfully removing the gum, clean the affected area with a mild detergent or fabric cleaner. This will help remove any residue left behind by the gum.
It’s important to take precautions when using the heating method. Avoid using high heat, as it can damage delicate fabrics. Always test the heat on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket before applying it to the gum.
The heating method is an effective and convenient way to remove gum from a blanket. By following these steps carefully, you can eliminate the gum without damaging the fabric and restore your blanket to its gum-free state.
Peanut Butter Method
The peanut butter method is a surprising yet effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need a jar of peanut butter (smooth, creamy, or chunky), a butter knife, and a cloth or paper towel.
2. Apply peanut butter to the gum: Take a generous amount of peanut butter and directly apply it to the gum. Make sure to cover the gum completely with peanut butter.
3. Let it sit: Allow the peanut butter to sit on the gum for about 10-15 minutes. The oils in the peanut butter will help break down the gum’s adhesive properties.
4. Gently scrape off the gum: Using a cloth or paper towel, gently scrape off the gum and the peanut butter. Start from the outer edges and work your way towards the center. Repeat the process until the gum is completely removed. Be careful not to damage the fabric of the blanket.
5. Clean the blanket: After removing the gum, wash the blanket according to its care instructions. This will help get rid of any peanut butter residue and restore the freshness of your blanket.
It’s important to note that the peanut butter method may leave behind an oily residue on the blanket. Make sure to thoroughly wash the blanket to remove any trace of peanut butter and prevent it from attracting dirt or becoming sticky again.
This method works well because the oils in the peanut butter help break down the gum, making it easier to remove without causing any damage to the fabric. Plus, the pleasant scent of peanut butter can help mask any residual odor left by the gum.
Remember to choose a peanut butter brand that does not contain any added sweeteners or flavors, as these additives may leave stains on the blanket. Additionally, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket before applying peanut butter to ensure it doesn’t discolor the fabric.
The peanut butter method is a unique and effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Give it a try and say goodbye to gum-related woes!
Vinegar Method
The vinegar method is a simple and natural way to remove gum from a blanket. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare the materials: You’ll need white vinegar, a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Soak the cloth or sponge: Pour some white vinegar into a bowl and soak the cloth or sponge in it.
3. Dab the gum with vinegar: Take the soaked cloth or sponge and gently dab the gum with the vinegar. Make sure the gum is well-saturated with the vinegar solution.
4. Let it sit: Allow the vinegar to sit on the gum for a few minutes. The acidity of the vinegar helps to break down the gum and make it easier to remove.
5. Wipe away the gum: Use the cloth or sponge to wipe away the gum from the blanket. Start from the outer edges of the gum and work your way towards the center. If needed, you can gently rub the gum to help loosen it.
6. Rinse the area: Rinse the affected area of the blanket with water to remove any remaining vinegar and gum residue.
7. Wash the blanket: After removing the gum, wash the blanket according to its care instructions to eliminate any remaining vinegar smell and ensure it is clean and fresh.
The vinegar method is effective because the acidity in the vinegar helps to dissolve the adhesive properties of the gum, making it easier to remove from the blanket. Additionally, vinegar is a natural, non-toxic cleaning agent that is safe to use on most fabrics.
It’s important to note that vinegar has a strong smell, so make sure to thoroughly rinse the blanket after removing the gum. If the vinegar smell lingers, you can add a little fabric conditioner during the wash cycle to help freshen up the blanket.
Always perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket before using vinegar to ensure it does not cause any discoloration or damage to the fabric. Additionally, avoid using vinegar on delicate or sensitive fabrics that may be affected by the acidity.
With the vinegar method, you can easily and naturally remove gum from a blanket, giving you a clean and gum-free surface to enjoy.
Rubbing Alcohol Method
The rubbing alcohol method is an effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to successfully eliminate the sticky mess:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol), a clean cloth, and a bowl.
2. Test a small area: Before applying rubbing alcohol to the gum, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
3. Apply rubbing alcohol: Pour some rubbing alcohol into a bowl. Dip the cloth into the alcohol, making sure it is well-saturated but not dripping.
4. Dab the gum: Gently dab the cloth onto the gum, ensuring it is thoroughly soaked with rubbing alcohol. This will help break down the gum’s adhesive properties.
5. Let it sit: Allow the rubbing alcohol to sit on the gum for a few minutes. This will give it enough time to penetrate the gum and make it easier to remove.
6. Wipe away the gum: Using the cloth, gently wipe or rub the gum. The rubbing alcohol will dissolve the gum, making it easier to remove from the blanket. Continue wiping until the gum is completely gone.
7. Clean the area: Once the gum is removed, use a clean cloth or sponge dipped in water to clean the affected area of the blanket. This will remove any residue left by the rubbing alcohol.
8. Dry the blanket: Allow the blanket to air dry, or if suitable for the fabric, follow the care instructions for drying.
The rubbing alcohol method is effective because it dissolves the gum without damaging the fabric. Rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving no residue behind.
It’s important to note that rubbing alcohol may have a strong odor, so ensure the room is well-ventilated while using it. If the smell lingers, you can air out the blanket or use a fabric freshener after cleaning.
Remember, some fabrics may be sensitive to rubbing alcohol. Always perform a spot test and consult the blanket’s care instructions before using this method. If in doubt, consider consulting a professional cleaner.
By using the rubbing alcohol method, you can effectively remove gum from your blanket and restore it to its gum-free state.
Lemon Juice Method
The lemon juice method is a natural and refreshing way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to effectively tackle the sticky situation:
1. Gather the necessary materials: You’ll need fresh lemon juice, a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice: Extract the juice from a fresh lemon and pour it into a bowl. The citric acid in lemon juice helps break down the gum’s adhesive properties.
3. Soak the cloth or sponge: Dip a cloth or sponge into the lemon juice, ensuring that it is well-saturated with the acidic liquid.
4. Apply the lemon juice: Gently dab or rub the gum with the cloth or sponge soaked in lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon juice will help dissolve the gum.
5. Let it sit: Allow the lemon juice to sit on the gum for a few minutes. This gives it time to penetrate and loosen the gum from the blanket fibers.
6. Wipe away the gum: Using the cloth or sponge, wipe or rub the gum. The lemon juice will make the gum easier to remove. Continue wiping until all traces of the gum are gone.
7. Rinse the area: After successfully removing the gum, rinse the affected area of the blanket with water. This will remove any remaining lemon juice and gum residue.
8. Launder the blanket: Wash the blanket as per its care instructions to remove any remaining lemon juice residue and ensure a fresh and clean outcome.
The lemon juice method not only removes gum effectively but also leaves behind a pleasant citrus scent on the blanket.
However, it’s important to note that lemon juice can act as a natural bleach and potentially lighten the fabric’s color. Make sure to perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket before applying lemon juice to the gum.
If you don’t have fresh lemon juice on hand, you can also use bottled lemon juice, but make sure it doesn’t contain any added sugars or preservatives.
By utilizing the lemon juice method, you can say goodbye to gum on your blanket and restore its freshness.
Dish Soap Method
The dish soap method is a simple and effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to successfully tackle the sticky situation:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need dish soap (preferably liquid), warm water, a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Create a soapy solution: Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Mix the soap and water together to create a soapy solution.
3. Dip the cloth or sponge: Dip a cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, ensuring it is well-saturated but not dripping.
4. Apply the soapy solution: Gently dab or rub the gum with the cloth or sponge soaked in the soapy solution. The soap helps break down the gum’s adhesive properties.
5. Let it sit: Allow the soapy solution to sit on the gum for a few minutes. This gives it time to penetrate and loosen the gum from the blanket fibers.
6. Wipe away the gum: Using the cloth or sponge, gently wipe or rub the gum. The soapy solution helps to lift the gum off the surface of the blanket. Continue wiping until all traces of the gum are removed.
7. Rinse the area: After successfully removing the gum, rinse the affected area of the blanket with clean water. This will remove any soap residue and gum remnants.
8. Launder the blanket: Wash the blanket according to its care instructions to remove any remaining soap residue and ensure a fresh and clean outcome.
The dish soap method is effective as dish soap is specifically designed to break down grease and oils, which helps in loosening the gum from the blanket.
Before using dish soap, it’s advisable to check the blanket’s care instructions to ensure that it is safe to use on the fabric. Additionally, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket to ensure that the soap doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage.
In case the gum persists or leaves behind residue, repeat the process or consider trying another method described in this article.
By using the dish soap method, you can easily remove gum from your blanket and restore it to its gum-free state.
WD-40 Method
The WD-40 method is an unconventional yet effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to successfully tackle the sticky problem:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need WD-40, a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Spray WD-40 on the gum: Apply a small amount of WD-40 directly onto the gum. Make sure to spray it evenly and thoroughly, covering the entire gum area.
3. Let it sit: Allow the WD-40 to penetrate the gum for 5-10 minutes. This will help break down the gum’s adhesive properties and make it easier to remove.
4. Wipe away the gum: Using a cloth or sponge, gently rub or wipe the gum. The WD-40 will help dissolve the gum, making it easier to lift off the blanket’s surface. Continue wiping until all traces of the gum have been removed.
5. Clean the area: After successfully removing the gum, use a clean cloth or sponge soaked in warm soapy water to clean the affected area of the blanket. This will help remove any WD-40 residue.
6. Rinse and launder the blanket: Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining soap or WD-40 residue. Finally, launder the blanket according to its care instructions to ensure it is clean and fresh.
It’s important to note that WD-40 is a solvent and may leave behind an odor. Ensure proper ventilation while using WD-40 and rinse thoroughly afterwards to eliminate any lingering smell.
Always perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket before using WD-40, as it may affect certain fabrics or cause discoloration.
While the WD-40 method can be effective in removing gum, it is important to use it sparingly and only as a last resort to avoid any potential damage to the fabric.
By using the WD-40 method, you can effectively remove gum from your blanket and restore it to its gum-free state.
Hair Spray Method
The hair spray method is a surprising yet effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to successfully tackle the sticky problem:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need hair spray (preferably an aerosol can), a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Test a small area: Before proceeding, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket to ensure that the hair spray doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage to the fabric.
3. Apply the hair spray: Hold the blanket away from you and spray a generous amount of hair spray directly onto the gum. Make sure to cover the entire gum area with a thin layer of hair spray.
4. Let it sit: Allow the hair spray to sit on the gum for a few minutes. The chemicals in the hair spray will work to harden the gum and make it easier to remove.
5. Wipe away the gum: Using a cloth or sponge, gently wipe or rub the gum. The hardened gum should start to chip away. Continue wiping until all traces of the gum are removed.
6. Clean the area: After successfully removing the gum, use a clean cloth or sponge soaked in warm soapy water to clean the affected area of the blanket. This will help remove any residue left by the hair spray.
7. Rinse and launder the blanket: Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining detergent or hair spray residue. Finally, launder the blanket according to its care instructions to ensure it is clean and fresh.
It’s important to note that not all hair sprays may work effectively in removing gum. Opt for a hair spray that contains high levels of alcohol, as this is the component that helps harden the gum. Avoid using hair sprays with added oils or moisturizing agents, as they may leave behind a residue on the blanket.
Always use caution when handling hair spray and ensure proper ventilation while using it.
The hair spray method can be a quick and effective way to remove gum from a blanket. By following these steps, you can restore your blanket to its gum-free state.
Goo Gone Method
The Goo Gone method is a powerful and effective way to remove gum from a blanket. Follow these steps to successfully tackle the sticky problem:
1. Gather the necessary supplies: You’ll need Goo Gone, a cloth or sponge, and a bowl.
2. Test a small area: Before proceeding, perform a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of the blanket to ensure that Goo Gone doesn’t cause any discoloration or damage to the fabric.
3. Apply Goo Gone: Apply a small amount of Goo Gone directly onto the gum. Make sure to target the gum specifically and avoid applying it to the surrounding fabric.
4. Let it sit: Allow the Goo Gone to sit on the gum for a few minutes. The powerful formula of Goo Gone works to break down the adhesive properties of the gum.
5. Wipe away the gum: Using a cloth or sponge, gently wipe or rub the gum. The Goo Gone will dissolve the gum, making it easier to remove. Continue wiping until all traces of the gum are gone.
6. Clean the area: After successfully removing the gum, use a clean cloth or sponge soaked in warm soapy water to clean the affected area of the blanket. This will help remove any Goo Gone residue.
7. Rinse and launder the blanket: Rinse the area with clean water to remove any remaining detergent or Goo Gone residue. Finally, launder the blanket according to its care instructions to ensure it is clean and fresh.
It’s important to follow the instructions provided on the Goo Gone packaging and to use it in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling strong odors. Additionally, avoid using Goo Gone on delicate or sensitive fabrics that may be negatively affected by the powerful formula.
The Goo Gone method is highly effective at removing gum from a blanket, but it’s advisable to exercise caution and always test it on a small area before applying it to larger portions of the fabric.
By utilizing the Goo Gone method, you can effectively remove gum from your blanket and restore it to its gum-free state.