Chewing gum might seem harmless, but the mess it leaves behind is anything but. Whether it’s mashed into footpaths, stuck to outdoor furniture, or clinging to concrete, gum is an eyesore that’s hard to ignore.
For councils, schools, and businesses, getting rid of gum is more than just cleaning—it’s protecting the environment, keeping spaces safe, and showing visitors you care. At Kleenit, we’ve been helping Aussie businesses tackle chewing gum removal for decades, and we’re here to explain why addressing this sticky issue matters and how it can make a real difference.
A sticky situation across the globe
For something so small, chewing gum litter is a giant problem. After cigarette butts, it’s the second most common type of litter worldwide, with more than 100,000 tonnes of gum waste produced every year. And here’s the kicker—80–90% of that gum isn’t disposed of properly. In Singapore, gum litter got so bad that it was clogging up train doors and causing disruptions in train services, leading to the country’s government famously banning gum altogether in 1992!
Why chewing gum removal helps the environment
Removing gum isn’t just about making your footpaths look nicer—it’s a way to protect local ecosystems and show a commitment to sustainability.
It’s not biodegradable
Chewing gum is made from synthetic plastics, meaning it doesn’t break down naturally. It can remain wherever it’s been stuck for decades, contributing to pollution on streets, in waterways, and throughout ecosystems.
It’s harmful to marine life
When gum ends up in our oceans, marine animals can mistake it for food. They ingest it, which releases toxins that work their way up the food chain, eventually impacting us. It’s a serious environmental concern that chewing gum removal helps to address.
It can be expensive to remove
Cleaning up chewing gum is no small cost. For example, in preparation for the 2012 London Olympics, authorities spent months removing 300,000 pieces of gum from just three kilometres of footpath. The cost? Between 16 cents and $3 per piece, highlighting the long-term expense involved.
It’s unhygienic
Chewing gum isn’t just a visual nuisance—it’s unhygienic, too. Over time, old gum traps bacteria, dirt, and grime, creating a breeding ground for nastiness. We all know what it’s like to step on or touch it accidentally—yuck, that’s an unpleasant experience.
How councils can lead the charge
For local councils, chewing gum removal is about more than keeping our streets clean—it’s a chance to lead by example.
Clean, gum-free public spaces make people feel proud of their community and encourage them to take better care of their surroundings. By investing in gum removal, councils can showcase their commitment to sustainability in their environmental reports, proving to ratepayers that they’re serious about protecting the environment. Plus, chewing gum removal programs provide a great opportunity to educate locals on how to dispose of gum properly, which can help reduce litter over time. When councils lead the way, they inspire businesses, schools, and other organisations to do the same, creating a positive impact that benefits everyone.
The best way to remove gum from concrete
Concrete surfaces and footpaths are two of the most common places for gum litter, and they’re also among the hardest to clean. Chewing gum removal from sidewalks is tricky because gum sticks tightly to porous surfaces like concrete, making DIY methods like scraping or chemicals ineffective and messy.
At Kleenit, we use professional techniques to remove gum quickly, effectively, and without damaging the surface. This process works wonders for high-traffic areas like shopping centres, schools, and public footpaths. Our tools and expertise mean you’ll never have to worry about sticky leftovers or unsightly stains. Here’s how we do it:
Pre-treatment
We start by applying safe cleaning agents that loosen the gum for easy removal.
High-pressure steam cleaning
This eco-friendly method lifts and softens gum, removing even the most stubborn pieces. We use hot water for cleaning, a game-changer compared to the cold water methods most companies rely on. Hot water delivers a deeper clean, breaking down dirt, grease, and gum more efficiently and effectively. It’s faster, better for the environment, and minimises water usage—our team arrives with about 600 litres of water on board, ensuring we’re fully equipped for the job without waste.
Residue-free results
We don’t just remove the gum—we clean the surrounding area, leaving your footpaths looking spotless.
Seal the deal with paver sealing
After tackling gum removal and thoroughly cleaning your concrete, footpath or paving, we can help keep your surfaces protected for the long haul with professional paver sealing. A high-quality sealer creates a protective barrier that guards against stains from grease, oil, and everyday grime, making future clean-ups a breeze, even for stubborn gum.
Sealing doesn’t just protect paving—it enhances it. We offer clear sealers for a subtle finish or coloured sealers to rejuvenate old, faded paving. This option is perfect for refreshing tired outdoor spaces without the expense of replacing the pavers. The added protection ensures your paving stays looking fresh while reducing the chance of gum or dirt clinging to the surface.
Who needs chewing gum removal services?
Whether you’re a council managing public spaces or a business trying to keep your shopfront tidy, chewing gum removal can transform your property.
Councils and public areas
Gum-covered streets and parks send the wrong message to residents and visitors. Regular removal keeps these spaces safe, clean, and welcoming while demonstrating your commitment to caring for the environment.
Schools and universities
From gum stuck under desks to littered courtyards, educational institutions can use chewing gum removal to create a hygienic, professional environment.
Retailers and hospitality businesses
First impressions count. Gum-covered footpaths outside shops, cafés, or restaurants can deter customers. A gum-free entrance shows you care about your business and your guests.
Ready to tackle the sticky stuff?
At Kleenit, we’re experts in removing gum from footpaths, concrete, and more. Get in touch today for a free quote to help you reclaim your spaces, protect the environment, and make an impression that sticks—for the all the right reasons.