Accidentally dropping gum on your car can be one of the most frustrating things that can happen to you. It’s not only unsightly but also quite difficult to remove, especially if it has been sitting there for a while or hardened due to high temperatures.
Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of 5 easy tricks that will help you get rid of gum off your car without causing any damage to its exteriors. These simple techniques are quick, effective, and use readily available household items that you probably already have in your pantry!
From using heat and cold to employing peanut butter and vinegar, we’ve got you covered with the best ways to tackle this stubborn problem so that your car looks as good as new again.
No need to spend money on expensive cleaning products or rush to the dealership to fix the issue when you can try these tried-and-true methods at home.
“Remember, prevention is key! Always chew gum responsibly and make sure to dispose of it correctly instead of sticking it under your car seats or throwing it out the window!”
So keep reading to find out how to get gum off car effortlessly and save yourself from unnecessary hassle and stress.
Ice It Out
Using ice to remove gum from hair
Gum in hair can be a frustrating situation and can lead to having to cut your hair. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution- using ice! Simply place the affected hair strand into a plastic bag, seal it tightly so no air can escape, and then place it in the freezer for about 20 minutes. After this time has passed, take out the bag and use your fingers or a comb to gently loosen the hardened gum and pull it out of your hair.
“I always have my kids put their heads over the sink while I run an ice cube over the spot where the gum is stuck. When the gum is hard enough, it peels right off.” -Kristi Klemish, Parenting Magazine
Using ice to remove stains from clothing
Ice works wonders when removing stubborn stains like blood. Start by running cold water on the stained area to saturate it, then place some ice cubes inside a plastic bag and press them onto the stain. The cold temperature will prevent the stain from setting any further. Gently rub the area with a sponge or cloth until the stain starts dissolving under the pressure of rubbing. Follow up by washing the piece of clothing immediately, making sure to not let the fabric sit unwashed for too long as the longer the stain sets, The harder it becomes to remove completely.
“When you treat a bloodstain, make sure that you use COLD water and ice instead of hot water which may cause the protein fiber to bond together irreversibly.” -Caroline Bernet, How To Get Stains Out
Cooling down burns with ice
If you’ve accidentally burnt yourself near a heat source, it can be quite painful and the aftereffects can last for a while. To combat this, use an ice pack or wrap some ice cubes in a clean cloth- we prefer to use gauze since it is gentle on the skin. Hold it over the burnt area for no more than 20 minutes at a time to combat swelling and pain. If your burn doesn’t show any improvements even after icing, please visit a medical professional
“Immediately cooling a first-degree burn from hot liquid or steam with cold water for up to ten minutes may provide relief.” -Joyce Marter LMFT, The Huffington Post
Reducing Swelling With Ice
Painful injuries like sprains and bruises often come hand-in-hand with unpleasant swelling – but there’s something you can do about it! Applying an ice cube wrapped in a towel directly onto the swollen area will help to reduce both inflammation and pain symptoms. We recommend applying for only short periods of times as excessive cold can lead to frostbite if not carefully monitored.
“Use ice out of the freezer (not frozen peas, which may contain organisms that can infect broken skin) applied through a damp towel or cloth. Apply the ice off and on — 10 minutes on, then 10 minutes off — for the first day or two after the injury.” -Ronda Gates, Hackensack Meridian Health
Peanut Butter Power
Using peanut butter to remove gum from hair
Getting gum stuck in your hair can be a sticky situation. Peanut butter is an unexpected yet effective solution for getting that gum out of your hair. Simply take a spoonful of smooth peanut butter and rub it into the affected area, making sure the gum is completely covered.
Leave the peanut butter on for at least 10 minutes to allow it to work its magic. The oils in the peanut butter help break down the gum’s stickiness, making it easier to comb or pull out of your hair. Use a fine-tooth comb or your fingers to gently work the gum out of your hair, adding more peanut butter as needed.
Once you have successfully removed the gum, shampoo and condition your hair as normal. Your hair will thank you for the added moisture boost!
“Peanut butter contains healthy oils such as monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, which are good for both skin and hair.” -Dr. Anju Sood, nutritionist
Using peanut butter as a natural moisturizer
Peanut butter isn’t just for sandwiches anymore! It turns out the delicious spread can also double as a hydrating moisturizer for dry skin. Because peanuts contain vitamin E, they can help nourish and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
To use peanut butter as a natural moisturizer, start with clean, damp skin. Take a small amount of unsweetened peanut butter and apply a thin layer all over your face and neck, avoiding your eyes and mouth. Massage the peanut butter into your skin using circular motions until fully absorbed.
If you have extra-dry patches, leave a thicker layer of peanut butter on those areas for extra hydration. After about 5-10 minutes, rinse off the peanut butter with warm water and pat your skin dry. Your face will feel soft and smooth, with a healthy glow.
“Peanuts are high in protein and contain heart-healthy unsaturated fats that can help with overall skin health and radiance.” -Dr. Michele Green, dermatologist
Using peanut butter as a protein source in smoothies
Peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can add a delicious nutty flavor to any smoothie while also providing an excellent source of protein. This makes it a perfect post-workout snack or breakfast option for busy mornings.
To make a protein-packed peanut butter smoothie, start with a base of almond milk or coconut water. Add one scoop of your favorite vanilla or chocolate protein powder and a spoonful of smooth peanut butter. Add in some frozen banana slices or berries for added sweetness and fiber.
Blend all ingredients together until smooth, pour into a glass, and enjoy your tasty and nutritious peanut butter smoothie!
“Peanut butter contains both protein and healthy fats, making it a great addition to any diet for sustained energy levels.” -Dr. Elizabeth Trattner, integrated medicine practitioner
- The bottom line: Peanut butter is much more than just a tasty treat! Whether you need to remove gum from hair, hydrate your skin naturally, or add some protein to your diet, peanut butter has got you covered.
- Just be sure to choose natural or organic varieties without added sugars or oils for maximum health benefits.
- So go ahead and unleash the power of peanut butter in your life today!
Vinegar Victory
Removing stains with vinegar
If you’ve got a stubborn stain on your car, look no further than your pantry for a simple solution – white vinegar. Simply apply the vinegar to the stain with a clean cloth and let it soak in for a few minutes. Then, gently scrub the area with the cloth until the stain lifts away.
White vinegar is a natural degreaser and can be used to remove tough stains like oil and grease without damaging your car’s paintwork. It’s also effective at removing water spots on windows and mirrors caused by hard water or mineral build-up.
“Distilled white vinegar serves as a cheap and safe alternative to harsh cleaning chemicals when removing vehicle stains.” -Diana Rodrigues, This Old House
Using vinegar as a natural cleaning solution
Not only is vinegar effective at removing stains from your car, but it can also be used as an all-purpose cleaner around your home. Its acidic properties make it great at breaking down grime and dirt, making it a powerful and eco-friendly cleaning solution.
To create a quick and easy cleaner for countertops, mix together equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. You can also add a few drops of essential oils like lemon or lavender for a fresh scent.
“Vinegar makes a great all-purpose cleaner because it’s nontoxic and antibacterial.” -Katie Berry, Bob Vila
Conditioning hair with vinegar
If you’re looking for a natural hair conditioner without any harsh chemicals, look no further than apple cider vinegar. The acid in apple cider vinegar helps to balance the pH of your scalp, resulting in healthier hair and less frizz.
To use apple cider vinegar as a hair conditioner, mix one part vinegar with two parts water and apply to your hair after shampooing. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
“Apple cider vinegar is high in acetic acid which can help improve the overall health of your hair.” -Dr. Kristie Rivers, Healthline
Using vinegar as a natural remedy for sunburn
If you’ve spent too much time in the sun and are suffering from painful sunburn, don’t reach for the aloe vera just yet. White vinegar is a great natural remedy for soothing sunburned skin.
Mix equal parts vinegar and cool water and apply to the affected area with a washcloth. The cooling effect of the vinegar will provide relief from the pain and redness associated with sunburns.
“White vinegar is another ingredient often found in home kitchens that can be used to calm inflamed sunburnt skin due to its pH balancing properties.” -Lindsay Boyers, Livestrong
Hairdryer Hack
Using a hairdryer to remove stickers
Stickers can be pesky and leave residue behind, but with the help of a hairdryer, you can easily remove them without any fuss. First, hold the hairdryer close to the sticker for about 30 seconds, using high heat. Then, try to peel off the sticker slowly – it should come off more smoothly than before. If there is still some residue left on your surface, repeat the process and use a spatula or scraper to gently scrape off the remaining residue.
“This hack works because the heat from the hairdryer softens the adhesive in the sticker, making it easier to remove.” –Lifehacker
Drying wet shoes with a hairdryer
Getting caught in the rain can be a bummer when your shoes become drenched. Luckily, a hairdryer can come in handy to dry them quickly. Firstly, stuff the inside of your shoe with paper towels or crumpled newspaper to absorb moisture. Then, set your hairdryer to cool air and aim it at the shoes. Move the nozzle around continuously to prevent any hot spots that could damage the material. Repeat this process until your shoes are dry as new.
“An important thing to keep in mind while using a hairdryer to dry shoes is not to overheat them, especially if they’re made of leather” -OneGoodThingByJillee
Using a hairdryer to remove wrinkles from clothing
A wrinkled outfit can make you look sloppy, but pulling out an ironing board and spending time pressing each wrinkle can be tiresome. A faster solution is to grab your hairdryer instead. Hang up the wrinkled clothing item and set your hairdryer to high heat. While holding the clothing taut with one hand, run the hairdryer from top to bottom until all the wrinkles are gone. Voila – a wrinkle-free outfit in seconds!
“This hack can double up as a time-saving life-saver if you’re traveling and need wrinkle-free clothes for an important meeting.” -Cosmopolitan
A hairdryer is not just a styling tool but also has many other practical uses. Use these tips to get the most out of your hairdryer beyond drying your hair. Try them out for yourself and experience how efficient this little appliance can be.
Baking Soda Solution
Using baking soda as a natural deodorant
If you’re tired of traditional store-bought antiperspirants and their harsh chemicals, baking soda can be a great alternative. Not only is it cost-effective, but it’s also all-natural. To use baking soda as a deodorant, simply mix 1/4 teaspoon baking soda with enough water to create a paste. Apply the paste under your arms, let it dry for a few minutes, then you’re good to go!
Baking soda works as a natural deodorant because it neutralizes the pH level of your skin, making it more difficult for odor-causing bacteria to thrive.
“Baking soda serves as an excellent alternative to commercial deodorants.” -Dr. Peter Coppola
Using baking soda as a natural toothpaste
Baking soda is also a popular choice for those looking for a more natural approach to oral hygiene. Baking soda has antibacterial properties that help to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth. It’s also alkaline, which means it can neutralize acids produced by oral bacteria, preventing cavities and gum disease.
To make your own baking soda toothpaste, combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of baking soda, and a few drops of peppermint essential oil (optional) in a small bowl. Use this mixture in place of regular toothpaste when brushing your teeth.
“Baking soda helps to freshen breath while promoting healthy teeth and gums.” -Dr. Susan Maples
Removing stains with baking soda
Baking soda is a versatile cleaning agent that can be used for a variety of household cleaning tasks, including removing stains. To remove stains from clothing, mix a paste made of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let the paste sit for at least 30 minutes before laundering as normal.
Baking soda can also be used to remove stains on carpets and upholstery. Sprinkle baking soda over the stain and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum up the baking soda, and the stain should be removed.
“Baking soda is an effective and simple solution for removing common household stains.” -Consumer Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
What household items can be used to remove gum from a car?
There are several household items that can be used to remove gum from a car, such as peanut butter, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, or WD-40. Apply the chosen item directly to the gum and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scraping it off with a plastic scraper or credit card.
Is freezing the gum off the car a viable option?
Freezing the gum off the car is a viable option, but it may take longer to work than other methods. Apply ice or a bag of frozen vegetables to the gum and wait for it to harden. Once the gum is hard, gently scrape it off with a plastic scraper or credit card.
Can WD-40 or other lubricants be used to remove gum from a car?
Yes, WD-40 or other lubricants can be used to remove gum from a car. Apply the lubricant directly to the gum and let it sit for a few minutes before gently scraping it off with a plastic scraper or credit card. Be sure to wash the area thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue.
What is the best method for removing dried gum from car upholstery?
The best method for removing dried gum from car upholstery is to apply a solvent-based cleaner, such as Goo Gone or rubbing alcohol, to a cloth and gently rub the gum until it becomes loose. Once the gum is loose, use a plastic scraper or credit card to gently scrape it off. Be sure to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first.
How can I prevent gum from sticking to my car in the future?
To prevent gum from sticking to your car in the future, avoid parking near areas where people are likely to discard gum, such as sidewalks or parking lots. If you do find gum on your car, remove it as soon as possible to prevent it from hardening and becoming more difficult to remove.
Can professional detailing services remove gum from a car?
Yes, professional detailing services can remove gum from a car. They have specialized tools and products that can effectively remove gum without damaging the car’s paint or upholstery. However, this service may be more costly than removing the gum yourself using household items or DIY methods.