How to Remove Gum From a Washing Machine
Gum is a sticky substance that is difficult to remove from clothing, hair, soft and hard surfaces. It dries quickly, leaves a stain and requires a cleaning solution for removal. Gum even attaches itself to the outside or inside of your washing machine, including the agitator, rubber seals, lid and drum.
To remove gum from your washing machine, you need to use a method or solution that won't damage the washer, smear the gum or leave behind any residue.
Things You Will Need
- Bowl
- Ice cubes
- Latex gloves
- Plastic spoon or knife
- Spray lubricant
- Cloth or rag
- Laundry detergent
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Fill a bowl with two to three ice cubes. Wear latex gloves to keep your hands dry.
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Rub the ice cubes on the gum on your washing machine's surface until the ice melts. Scrape the hardened gum with a plastic spoon or knife.
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Spray the area where the gum was with a spray lubricant. Let the lubricant sit for five minutes.
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Scrub the area thoroughly with a cloth or rag. If the gum was inside your washing machine, proceed to the next step.
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Fill the washing machine with hot water and 1 capful of laundry detergent. Run the washer on a short cycle to remove any spray lubricant residue.
Tip
If a large amount of gum is present on or inside of your washing machine, work in sections to remove it.
The Drip Cap
- Gum is a sticky substance that is difficult to remove from clothing, hair, soft and hard surfaces.
- To remove gum from your washing machine, you need to use a method or solution that won't damage the washer, smear the gum or leave behind any residue.
- Fill the washing machine with hot water and 1 capful of laundry detergent.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Nick Davis is a freelance writer specializing in technical, travel and entertainment articles. He holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Memphis and an associate degree in computer information systems from the State Technical Institute at Memphis. His work has appeared in "Elite Memphis" and "The Daily Helmsman" in Memphis, Tenn. He is currently living in Albuquerque, N.M.
Photo Credits
- pack of chewing gums image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
- pack of chewing gums image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
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