The removal of chewing gum, bitumen and tar from carpet presents significant challenges in both commercial and residential carpeted environments.
The adhesive, oil-based nature of these substances causes them to bond tightly to carpet fibres, making standard cleaning methods ineffective. Citrus Gel provides a targeted, highly efficient solution for these contamination types.
Understanding the Chemistry Behind Removing Chewing Gum, Bitumen & Tar from Carpet
Contaminants like chewing gum, bitumen and tar are non-polar, solvent-based materials, which means they do not respond to pH-based cleaning chemistry. Because they contain no water-soluble components, neither acidic nor alkaline products can break their bond with carpet fibres. Their hydrophobic (repels water), adhesive structure makes them resistant to detergents and standard water-based cleaning methods.
Effective removal relies on solvent chemistry that dissolves or softens these non-polar soils at the molecular level. Citrus-based solvents, particularly those containing d-limonene, are highly effective because they bond with and break down these materials. In a gel form, the solvent stays on the fibre surface, allowing controlled penetration without spreading or over-wetting.
This targeted action does three key things:
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Softens and dissolves the gum, tar, or bitumen structure.
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Releases the bond between the contaminant and the carpet fibre through solvent–soil attraction rather than pH adjustment.
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Suspends the residue so it can be safely lifted, blotted, or rinsed from the carpet with minimal disruption to the fibres.
Equipment
Citrus Gel is a premium citrus-based stain remover formulated specifically for carpets and upholstery. Its controlled gel consistency keeps the active ingredients on the fibre surface, preventing over-wetting, protecting the carpet backing, and ensuring maximum contact with the contaminant. This makes it ideal for removing gum, putty, tar, bitumen, cosmetics and heavy grease deposits while leaving the treated area clean and residue-free.
- White terry towel – Minor spills can be blot treated with the aid of a terry towel, using the absorbency to transfer the stain off the carpet. By using a white towel, no other pigment will bleed onto the carpet.
- Wet Extraction Machine – For larger spills, a wet extraction machine should be used. This will minimise the risk of wick back and ensure an effective solution.
- Gum Getter – When removing contaminants from carpet, be sure not to damage the carpet fibre. Use small, slow motions rather than rapid, large ones to avoid damaging the carpet.
- PPE – All the necessary PPE needs to be used when working with chemicals.
The Process
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Apply Citrus Gel
Apply the gel directly onto the contaminant. The controlled gel consistency keeps the solvent on the fibre surface, preventing it from soaking into the backing.
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Allow Dwell Time
Let the product sit for approximately 5 minutes. Gently agitate to allow the d-limonene solvent to soften and break down the non-polar material at a molecular level.
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Remove the Softened Material
Blot or lightly scrape the contaminated area to lift away dissolved residue. Repeat the process for heavy or stubborn deposits.
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Rinse the Area
Wipe the treated spot with a damp sponge, or perform a light, clean-water extraction to remove any remaining solvent and residue, leaving the area clean and fresh.
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Align the fibres
Brush or groom the fibres to restore appearance and ensure the pile is aligned.
Where To Buy
Citrus Gel
Citrus Gel is a citrus based stain remover for carpets and upholstery.
Citrus Gel is a citrus based stain remover for carpets and upholstery.
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