It happens.
The one thing you can be sure of when it comes to kids is that they will break things.
Cups, plates, iPads, door handles, glass vases, your new blew-the-budget cashmere jumper – all broken.
One thing you can also pretty much be sure of, is that if you have carpets in your home, at some point there will be gum in them.
And when that happens – don't panic –
cleaning expert Mary Marlowe Leverette. has some good advice on what to do next:
According to
PureWow, all you need is some vinegar.
Here is what Leverette suggests you try if you are dealing with gum embedded in your carpet:
1. Mix a solution of 1/2 teaspoon dishwashing liquid and 1/4 cup white vinegar.
2. Use a soft-bristled brush to work a very small amount of the solution into the stain.
3. Let the solution sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then blot it up with a clean white cloth dipped in plain water.
4. Keep blotting with a clean area of the cloth until no more solution or residue is transferred to the cloth.
5. Allow the carpet fibers to air-dry completely, then vacuum the fabric or carpet to fluff the fibers.
Let us know – have YOU tried this trick? Did it work? Have you any other good tips for getting gum out of carpet? Let us know in the comments or tweet us at @herfamilydotie
