Ever been in that situation where you step into a wad of gum? Yeah, it's like the universe just decides it's your turn for a little chaos. Gum on your shoe is not just a minor hiccup—it can turn a great day into an annoying ordeal. 

But fear not. Here at Kizik, we know a thing or two about keeping your shoes clean, even when life gets a bit gooey.

What makes gum so sticky?

It’s all about the gum base, the stretchy stuff that makes gum chewy. This base is usually made from synthetic rubbers, which are champions at being elastic and sticky. 

Gum is made to be chewed, not swallowed, so its sticky nature keeps it intact. Unfortunately, that same stickiness makes it cling stubbornly to your shoe, requiring a few tricks to remove.

From fresh spearmint or bubblegum, the stickiness stays the same, turning a casual stroll into a sticky hassle.

What are some quick home remedies to remove gum?

When it comes to the sticky gum on your shoes, there are home remedies. 

Let’s go over a few quick fixes you can try:  

1. Ice it down

One of the simplest and most effective methods to deal with gum is to freeze it. Chilling gum hardens it, reducing its stickiness and making it easier to scrape off. 

Here’s how to chill out that gum:

• Grab some ice cubes or a frozen ice pack and press it against the gum. You can put the ice in a plastic bag to keep your shoe dry.
• Hold the ice on the gum for about 20 to 30 minutes. Check if the gum has hardened enough to become brittle.
• Use a dull knife or a spoon to gently pry or scrape the gum off. The goal is to lift it off in chunks without damaging your shoe’s material.
• Check for any residue and apply more ice if necessary to complete the removal.

2. Oil it up

If freezing doesn’t do the trick or you're dealing with residual stickiness, oils can help. Oils can soften and dissolve the gum, making it less of a chore to clean up. 

Here’s how to use oil effectively:

• Choose a type of oil—olive oil, vegetable oil, or even coconut oil can work.
• Apply a small amount of oil to a cloth or paper towel and dab it onto the gum. Allow the oil to sit for a few minutes to break down the gum’s stickiness.
• Gently work the gum off with the cloth. As it loosens, you can pick off the pieces.
• Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any oily residue. Be mindful that oil can sometimes darken certain materials, so it’s best to test this method on a less visible area first.

3. WD-40

For the toughest gum situations, WD-40 can be a game-changer. It’s not just for squeaky hinges—WD-40 can also cut through gum’s grip.

• Spray a small amount of WD-40 onto the gum, ensuring you cover it completely.
• Let it sit for a minute or two to penetrate and break down the gum.
• Use a cloth or an old toothbrush to scrub the gum off gently. The gum should come off more easily with the help of WD-40.
• Wipe the area clean with a soapy cloth to remove any chemical residue.

Note: While WD-40 is effective, it’s also strong, so use it cautiously. It can potentially affect the color or finish of some materials, so always do a spot test before applying it broadly.

What professional products work wonders for removing gum?

Professional products are your next line of defense, specially formulated to tackle gum with ease.

4. Commercial gum removers

Several products on the market are formulated specifically to dissolve gum. Products like Goo Gone and De-Solv-it are popular choices due to their effectiveness. 

Here’s how to get the most out of these gum removers:

• Select a commercial gum remover that suits your type of shoe material. Always read the label to ensure compatibility.
• Apply the remover directly to the gum according to the product instructions. Many of these removers will ask you to let the solution sit for a specified period to soften or dissolve the gum.
• Use a scraper or cloth to gently remove the gum. The remover should make it lift off easily without much residue.
• Wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove any leftover product and ensure your shoe is spotless.

5. Rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is not just a disinfectant; it's also excellent at dealing with sticky residues like gum. It evaporates quickly, which minimizes the risk of water damage to your shoes. 

Here’s how to use rubbing alcohol effectively:

• Moisten a cloth or cotton ball with rubbing alcohol. You don’t need a lot; just enough to cover the affected area.
• Press the alcohol-soaked cloth on the gum for a few minutes. This will help break down the gum’s adhesive properties.
• Wipe or gently scrape the gum away. You might need to repeat the application for stubborn spots.
• Clean the area with a soap and water solution to remove any alcohol residue and prevent any potential drying effect on the shoe fabric.

How to prevent gum mishaps

Though avoiding gum entirely is tough, a few proactive steps can help keep your shoes gum-free, ensuring that you stride in style without sticky surprises.

Watch your step

Watch where you walk, especially in public areas like parks, sidewalks, and transit stations where gum is often discarded. 

Choose your rest spots wisely

When sitting in public areas, take a quick look at the surface around your seat. Benches, low walls, and steps in high-traffic areas are often the culprits where gum likes to hide.

Regular shoe checks

Make it a habit to check the soles of your shoes after walking through public areas. A quick glance can help you spot and remove gum before it becomes a messier problem.

Protective sprays

Consider using a protective spray on your shoes. Some products can create a barrier that makes it easier to remove gum and other sticky substances without damaging the shoe material.

Educate the kids

Teach kids to dispose of gum properly to avoid sticky shoe mishaps—awareness goes a long way!

When is it time to say goodbye to your shoes?

Whether you stepped in an enormous wad of gum that just won't come off or your favorite kicks have seen better days after countless cleanings, knowing when to retire your shoes can be as important as keeping them clean. Sometimes, despite our best efforts to maintain them, our shoes tell us when they're ready to be replaced.  

Excessive wear on the sole

They might be past their prime, leading to discomfort, lack of support, and even injury. Regularly check soles for severe wear, especially if your walking feels uneven. 

Insoles that don't bounce back

Insoles are key for comfort and support. If they’re compressed or lack cushioning, it’s a sign your shoes aren’t performing well and may need replacing to prevent discomfort.

Irreparable damage

Damage like torn fabric, detached soles, or holes goes beyond cleaning. When structural integrity is compromised, shoes lose support and protection, becoming unsafe and uncomfortable.

Persistent odors

Persistent odors that don’t go away even after thorough cleaning can indicate that it's time to retire your shoes. Over time, shoes can absorb sweat and bacteria, which may lead to unpleasant smells that are difficult to remove. This can be a sign that the materials are breaking down and are no longer hygienic.

Discomfort that persists

If shoes cause consistent discomfort, pain, or blisters despite fitting well, they may have lost their ergonomic support. This can impact posture and gait, signaling it’s time for a replacement.

Time for an upgrade?

Notice your old shoes aren't quite making the cut anymore? Don't fret—it's just the perfect excuse to slide into something sleek, stylish, and super comfy. At Kizik, we've turned stepping into new shoes into a snap—literally. 

With our hands-free design, you’re out the door in seconds—no bending, no fuss. Treat your feet to style and innovation with Kiziks, where comfort meets cool!

A final word

From icing it off to using oils or WD-40, there are plenty of ways to remove gum. If home remedies fall short, try specialized gum removers or rubbing alcohol to keep your shoes looking sharp.

If your efforts reveal it’s time for a new pair, consider this the perfect opportunity to check out Kizik. Slip into the ease and style of our hands-free shoes, designed to keep up with your life’s pace, no matter what sticks along the way. 

Step up your shoe game with Kizik—where comfort meets modern convenience.

Sources:

Why Is Bubble Gum Sticky? | Wonderopoli

How can I best get gum unstuck if it ends up where it doesn't belong? | International Chewing Gum Association 

The Temperature of Rubbing Alcohol | amomentofscience | Indiana Public Media 

8 Ways to Battle Stinky Feet Without Seeing the Doctor | UnityPoint Health