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How to get chewing gum out of a jute rug

Act fast, blot rather than rub, and use as little liquid as possible. Below is a step-by-step method for removing chewing gum from a jute rug, with the precautions that matter for jute and natural fibre fibres.

By the Rug Kingdom team, Rug Kingdom (a trading name of Flair Furniture Ltd) · Published · Product details from our catalogue as of

Before you start

Check the care label on your rug or its product page first; it overrides general advice. Test any cleaning solution on a hidden corner and wait for it to dry before treating the stain. Use white cloths or kitchen roll so no dye transfers to the rug.

Step by step: chewing gum on a jute rug

  1. Hold a bag of ice cubes against the gum until it is hard and brittle.
  2. Chip it away with a blunt knife or spoon, working carefully so you do not cut the pile.
  3. Vacuum up the fragments.
  4. Dab any remaining residue with a mild washing-up liquid solution and blot.

Freezing is safer for the pile than solvents.

Why jute and natural fibre needs care

Jute is the trickiest material to wet clean: too much water can cause brown marks and weaken the fibres. Use the bare minimum of moisture, blot rather than dab heavily, and dry the area quickly with a hairdryer on a cool setting or good airflow. For large stains, a specialist natural-fibre cleaner is the safest option.

When to call a professional

Call a professional rug cleaner if the stain is large, has dried in, keeps reappearing as the rug dries (wicking), or if the rug is valuable, handmade or made of a delicate fibre. Tell them what the stain is and what you have already tried, as some home treatments make professional cleaning harder.

Jute and natural fibre rugs in our range

We currently list 41 jute and natural fibre rugs. Each product page gives the maker's own care instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Can you get chewing gum out of a jute rug?

Often, yes, if you act quickly. Blot, dilute and treat gently following the steps above. Old or set-in stains may need a professional rug cleaner.

What should I avoid when cleaning chewing gum from a jute rug?

Freezing is safer for the pile than solvents. Jute is the trickiest material to wet clean: too much water can cause brown marks and weaken the fibres.

Should I rub a stain on a rug?

No. Rubbing spreads the stain and can fray or felt the fibres. Blot from the outside of the stain towards the centre.

How do I dry a jute rug after spot cleaning?

Blot with a dry towel, pressing firmly, then let it air dry with good ventilation. Avoid direct high heat. Prop up the area so air reaches the back if the rug was wetted through.

Prices, stock and exact specifications change, so always check the product page before you order: every product page lists the maker's size, material, construction and care details. Delivery is free and tracked to England, Wales and mainland Scotland, and you have 14 days to change your mind. See delivery and returns.