How to Get Gum Out of Hair: Tried-and-True Methods That Actually Work
Dealing with gum in hair is never fun, but with these methods, you can handle it quickly and calmly—no scissors required.
Finding gum in your hair (or your child’s hair) can feel like a total disaster—but don’t panic just yet. While it’s a sticky situation, you don’t have to reach for the scissors right away. With a little patience and the right tools, there are several safe and effective ways to remove gum from hair without causing damage or needing a dramatic haircut.
Below, you’ll find a few of the most trusted and mom-approved methods for getting gum out of hair, using items you probably already have at home.
Whether you’re dealing with a preschooler who fell asleep chewing gum or an accidental run-in on the playground, these tips can help you clean up the mess quickly and painlessly.
1. Peanut Butter
This classic remedy works because the oils in peanut butter break down the stickiness of the gum. Choose a creamy peanut butter for best results.
How to use:
Apply a generous amount of peanut butter to the gum-covered hair. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the oils to work. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to gently work the gum out, starting from the edges and pulling it away slowly.
2. Ice Cubes
Cold can harden the gum, making it less sticky and easier to break off in pieces.
How to use:
Wrap a few ice cubes in a paper towel or use a reusable ice pack. Hold it on the gum for 5–10 minutes until the gum becomes firm. Once it’s hard, carefully try to crack or pull it apart from the hair in small pieces.
3. Cooking Oil or Conditioner
The slick texture of oil or hair conditioner can help loosen gum and reduce friction.
How to use:
Massage olive oil, coconut oil, or hair conditioner into the affected area. Let it sit for a few minutes, then slowly slide the gum out using your fingers or a comb. Be gentle and work in small sections for best results.
4. Vinegar
The acidity in vinegar can help dissolve gum without damaging the hair.
How to use:
Soak a cotton ball or cloth in white vinegar and dab it onto the gum. After a few minutes, the gum should start to loosen. Comb through gently or pull it out with your fingers. The smell isn’t great, but it works.
5. Baking Soda Paste
Baking soda can neutralize gum’s stickiness and reduce residue.
How to use:
Mix a few spoonfuls of baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Apply it directly to the gum and surrounding hair. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then gently comb out the gum.
6. Mayonnaise
It may sound strange, but the oils in mayo can help slide the gum right out.
How to use:
Work a small amount of mayonnaise into the gum area and let it sit. After a few minutes, begin working the gum out with your fingers or a comb. Rinse and wash the hair well afterward.
7. Commercial Gum Remover or Goo Gone (Hair-Safe Version)
If home remedies don’t work, some products are designed specifically for sticky messes. Be sure to choose one that is labeled as safe for use on hair and follow the instructions carefully.
Final Cleanup Tip:
After removing the gum, wash the hair thoroughly with warm water and a gentle shampoo to remove any oily residue or lingering smells. You might need to wash twice if you used peanut butter or oil.
Accidents happen—and when they do, having a few tricks up your sleeve makes all the difference. Keep this guide handy for the next sticky situation and rest easy knowing you can handle anything, gum and all.
More Articles You May Enjoy
Looking for more mom-friendly cleaning tips and household hacks? Check out these popular posts from ClarksCondensed.com:
How to Remove Slime from Clothes and Carpet
Easy Cleaning Hacks for Busy Moms
25 Time-Saving Laundry Tips Every Parent Should Know
DIY Cleaning Products That Really Work
