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A.J. asked: How can I remove gum stuck in the treads of my sneakers?
Though it’s a popular treat that has earned recognition for freshening breath and preventing tooth decay, gum seems to end up in inappropriate places that make it simply a nuisance. When you find it stringing from the bottom of your shoe, you’re left with a sticky goo that seems to be stuck like glue. Fortunately, this is a common problem and numerous methods have been found to remove it. Some are easier than others, but in the end, your shoe will be gum-free and you’ll be off and running in no time.
Plastic Bag Method
You Will Need:
- Plastic bag
- Freezer
Steps to Remove the Gum:
- Place the gummy portion of the shoe into a plastic bag.
- Press the plastic bag onto the gum so that the gum adheres to the bag.
- Place the shoe and the bag into the freezer.
- Allow it to freeze for at least an hour or two.
- Remove the shoe and the bag from the freezer.
- When you pull the bag away from the shoe, the gum should stick to the bag and be pulled off of the shoe.
Using Adhesive Removers
You Will Need:
- WD-40
- Peanut butter
- Baby oil
- Goo Gone
- Paper towels
- Soft cloths
Steps to Remove the Gum:
- Spray a small amount of WD-40 or other oily substance on the gum.
- Allow it to set for a minute so it can be absorbed around the gum and loosen the adhesive bond.
- Wipe it away with a paper towel or soft cloth.
- Repeat until the gum is completely removed.
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Scraping Method
You Will Need:
- Dull knife or spoon
- Freezer
Steps to Remove the Gum:
- Start by scraping off as much of the gum as possible.
- Place the shoe in the freezer for an hour or two and allow the gum to harden.
- Remove the shoe from the freezer.
- Pry any remaining gum pieces out using a spoon or dull knife.
- If the gum softens while you are removing it, place the shoe back in the freezer to allow it to harden again.
Sand/Dirt Method
You Will Need:
- Sand
- Dry dirt
- Stick
Steps to Remove the Gum:
- This method works well if the gum is still soft and pliable.
- Sprinkle some sand or dry dirt onto the gum.
- Rub the gum with a stick.
- Continue to add more dirt or sand as you scrape.
- The gum will begin to rub off in small pieces.
- Keep rubbing until the gum is completely removed.
Additional Tips and Advice
- Naptha lighter fluid will dissolve gum. Simply moisten a paper towel or soft cloth with the lighter fluid and rub the gum away. Use caution as lighter fluid is flammable. Work in a well ventilated area that is away from any flames.
- Nail polish remover can also be applied to the gum. The acetone will dissolve the gum but may damage your shoes.
- Peanut butter and other mild removers also work for removing gum from hair.
Who said it’s all easy? Any of these methods work very well; it is a matter of patience and persistence. I tried WD-40; the freezer? I got cold feet!!
This method does not work and made it dirty.