aerosol chewing gum remover makes it less sticky so that you can pick it off. ex:
https://smile.amazon.com/BWK353AEA-Chewing-Gum-Candle-Remover/dp/B004I2IAWQ
but in case you don't have that (most people don't), what the aerosol does is basically freeze it instantly. you could get similar effect by putting ice cubes and salt in a small ziploc bag and holding it over the spot.
Never tried steam.... Doesn't that run the risk of pushing it deeper in to the fibers?
Totally agree with freezing it. I've used this method lots of times with good success. However, they make products specifically for this and you don't need to invert the compressed air can. I use a product by Diversey but it's not readily available to consumers. I think the below Amazon link is same same, though.
http://www.amazon.com/Boardwalk-BWK353A-Chewing-Remover-Aerosol/dp/B004I2IAWQ