How to Remove Gum from Shoe Soles

The Logic Verdict

My Take: The Clean Kicks Lab tech skips the freezer trick and uses steam instead. Heating the gum makes it malleable, then he rolls it with the flat side of a pick until it forms a single chunk he can snag with tweezers. A quick scrub and wipe leaves the outsole spotless without scratching the rubber lugs.

The Science

Chewing gum is a thermoplastic polymer: cold temperatures make it brittle, while heat softens it and breaks its grip on textured rubber. Steam delivers controlled heat plus moisture, so the gum loosens without damaging midsoles. Rolling it into one mass keeps it from smearing back into the tread.

Step-by-Step Removal

1. Prep the shoe. Set the sneaker upside down in a sink or on a towel. Remove loose rocks or dirt so you can see the gum clearly.
2. Steam the gum. Hold a clothing steamer or steam gun a few inches from the outsole and bathe the gum for 10–20 seconds. You want it glossy and pliable, not dripping hot.
3. Roll, don’t scrape. Using a plastic pick or the side of a detailing tool, roll the softened gum toward itself. Form a single blob and lift it with tweezers. Avoid stabbing straight down, which can gouge rubber or paint.
4. Repeat as needed. Reapply steam and keep rolling until every crevice is clear. Finish with a nylon detail brush to flick away crumbs.
5. Degrease the outsole. Apply a bit of sneaker cleaner or dish soap to a damp brush, scrub the contact patch, and wipe with a microfiber towel. Let the sole air-dry before wearing.

Resources

• Handheld Garment Steamer (Amazon)
• Plastic Detailing Picks (Amazon)
• Sneaker Cleaning Kit (Amazon)