Q&A for How to Remove Gum from a Shoe

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  • Question
    How do you get dried gum off shoes?
    Victor Adrian
    Footwear Expert
    Victor Adrian is a Footwear Expert based in London, UK. He is a Researcher, Tester, and Editor for BestForMyFeet.com, a leading footwear and footcare blog that discusses the importance of wearing the right footwear for the right occasion. Adrian is well-versed in determining which type of footwear is ideal for a variety of work and casual environments thanks to his vast working experience in different types of industries. He teams up with footwear professionals to test products and create comprehensive product reviews and comparisons that help readers choose the ideal footwear for their needs. Additionally, he collaborates with US board-certified podiatrists and foot doctors in order to make sure the information his team provides is always accurate. Adrian studied Biochemistry at the I.E.S. Calderon de la Barca Institute.
    Footwear Expert
    Expert Answer
    One of the easiest ways to do it is by getting the blade of a utility knife under the chewing gum gently and scraping it off. If you feel that the gum is kinda hard to scrape, simply use a hairdryer to warm it a tiny bit. That should do the trick.
  • Question
    How do I remove gum from my shoe if it has ridges?
    Community Answer
    These methods should work fine. The WD-40 method is probably the easiest. Spray it on and wait for a minute, then the gum should slide right off.
  • Question
    What do I do if the gum is already hard on the shoe?
    Community Answer
    Use the ice method with three ice cubes, and let the gum get wet. Use a tool such as a flat-head screwdriver to scrape it off. If the shoe has accumulated mud, wash it off with a hose; some gum will come off with the hose as well after you scrape.
  • Question
    Which of these methods would be best to use to remove gum stuck to the outside of the shoe?
    Community Answer
    Try using the ice cube method. Place an ice cube on top of the gum and rub it until the ice melts. Once the ice melts, you should be able to peel the gum off of your shoe.
  • Question
    What's the best method to remove gum that's been stuck there for a few months?
    Community Answer
    WD40 worked extremely well. The gum had been lodged in the tread of my teva sandals along with caked on dirt and gravel for months. I sprayed two applications and rubbed it all out with a rag.
  • Question
    What if dirt and other stuff is covering the gum and the gum is dry?
    Unique Sanchez
    Community Answer
    Use a sharp object and pick at it until you can see a bit of gum without dirt. Then get nail polish remover, put it on a cotton ball or napkin, and rub the gum. It should become sticky, making it easier to remove.
  • Question
    Does the same apply with sticky tack?
    Community Answer
    Yes it does. I suggest the ice-method, as freezing the sticky tack will make it harden and peel off easier.
  • Question
    What if you get the gum in your hair?
    Community Answer
    You can use peanut butter or mayonnaise. Put a generous amount on the spot with the gum, and let it sit for a couple of minutes. The gum should slide off afterward.
  • Question
    How do I get rid of chewing gum inside my shoes?
    Community Answer
    The ice method would be great for that, just freeze the gum with ice and it should come off much easier.
  • Question
    How do I remove gum stuck to the top side of the sole of my flip flop?
    Community Answer
    Use the ice method explained above, then use a sharp object to pry the gum off the flip flop. Just take care not to dig into the flip flop material as this can gouge out a hole.
  • Question
    Will WD-40 attack the rubber sole and the glue that is used in sneakers?
    Anna B
    Community Answer
    WD-40 may add traction but could degrade rubber soles and weaken glue bonds in sneakers and may stain fabrics or leave a residue. Use shoe glue or shoe repair adhesive specifically designed for rubber and leather. To add grip, scuff the soles, use traction spray, add a salt and rubber glue mixture, spray soles with hairspray, or adhere sand to the soles. Effectiveness and durability vary depending on sneaker type, condition, and weather.
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