How to Remove Gum From Shoes – A Quick Step-by-Step Guide

Getting gum stuck on your sneakers is one of the most frustrating things (right after someone stepping on your fresh kicks). That’s especially if you’re dealing with a new pair you just copped. Whether it’s on the outsole, midsole, or even the upper, knowing how to remove gum from shoes quickly and safely is important to keep your rotation clean, flex-ready, and resale-ready. So today, we’ll show you the best methods to remove gum from shoes without damaging your kicks.

Why Does Gum Stick So Easily to Sneakers?

Gum is designed to be sticky and elastic, which makes it cling to surfaces like rubber outsoles and textured patterns. Sneakers, especially those with deep traction like Nike SB or Air Jordans, tend to trap gum even more. The key to removal is changing the gum’s texture, either by hardening it or loosening it.

How to Remove Gum From Shoes

Method 1: Freeze the Gum

Freezing is lowkey the best, safest, and most effective way to remove gum from shoes. It makes gum brittle, so it breaks off cleanly without sticking. All you have to do is: 

1. Place your sneaker in a plastic bag (gum side exposed if you can).
2. Put it in the freezer for a couple of hours.
3. Once the gum hardens, use a dull knife or spoon to scrape it off.
4. Wipe away any leftover residue with a cloth.

Best for: Rubber soles, midsoles, and durable materials.

Method 2: Ice Cube Technique

If you can’t fit your shoes in the freezer, this method is a quick alternative that works just as well. The steps to do that are:

1. Hold an ice cube directly against the gum.
2. Wait until the gum hardens.
3. Scrape it off using a tool or your fingernail.
4. Clean the area with a damp cloth.

Best for: Quick fixes when you’re on the go.

Method 3: Peanut Butter or Oil (For Stubborn Residue)

Oils can break down the stickiness of gum. So, if you wanna remove the stubborn residues of the gum, the oils reduce adhesion, making the gum easier to remove. Just follow these steps:

1. Apply a small amount of peanut butter or cooking oil onto the gum.
2. Let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Gently rub or scrape the gum off.
4. Clean thoroughly with soap and water to remove oil stains.

Best for: Remaining sticky residue after scraping.

Method 4: Vinegar Solution

White vinegar can help dissolve gum and sanitize your shoes at the same time. So, if you’re looking for a deep clean for your shoes, vinegar is the way to go! Here’s what you have to do for the best results:

1. Heat a small amount of white vinegar (do not boil).
2. Dip a cloth or toothbrush into the vinegar.
3. Scrub the gum until it loosens.
4. Wipe clean with water.

Best for: Fabric uppers and detailed cleaning.

Method 5: Commercial Cleaners

If you’re dealing with premium sneakers, using a sneaker cleaner can help avoid damage. Brands like Jason Markk or Reshoevn8r offer products designed specifically for delicate materials. Or, check out this list of sneaker cleaning kits 

Best for: High-value sneakers and resale pairs.

Pro Tips to Avoid Damaging Your Kicks

• Avoid sharp tools that can scratch rubber or tear fabric
• Don’t use excessive heat (it melts gum further into the material)
• Always test cleaning solutions on a small area first
• Clean and dry your shoes properly after gum removal
• Keep proper sneaker storage

Now That You Know How to Remove Gum From Shoes

Knowing how to remove gum from shoes is a must for any sneakerhead. Whether you’re preserving your personal collection or prepping pairs for resale, these methods will help you keep your kicks in top condition. For sneaker resellers using NSB, clean pairs = higher profit margins. Keeping your inventory in pristine shape can make all the difference when it’s time to sell. And of course, get NSB today to be able to score those kicks and flip them. Godspeed!