Gum is hydrophobic, meaning it doesn’t dissolve in water. The best way to dissolve something that’s hydrophobic is to mix it with something else that’s also hydrophobic. [2] X Research source That’s where the WD-40 comes in. [3] X Research source
You may need to repeat the process more than once to get all of the gum out. Continue spraying, waiting, and scrubbing until your carpet is gum-free! You can even freeze the chewing gum by placing an ice cube on it. [7] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019. Then gently scrape it with a butter knife. [8] X Expert Source Raymond ChiuHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 15 October 2019.
Wipe off the bottom of your shoe with a clean rag when you’re finished to remove any excess WD-40 residue.