Tips for Removing Red Wine Stains

If you’re a wine drinker, you may have discovered that red wine stains are tough to get out. Whether its on furniture or clothing, these stubborn stains can be virtually impossible to get rid of. I said virtually impossible, but not entirely impossible.

Here are some tips to getting rid of unsightly red wine stains, using items you may already have at home:

Salt

Pour cold water over the stain first, then sprinkle some salt on top. Rinse, blot, repeat. The absorptive qualities in salt will soak up the stain, which will fade continuously with each cycle.

White Wine

Who would’ve thought that the remedy to getting rid of red wine would be it’s cousin, white wine! First sprinkle a little salt over the stain, drip a little white wine on top. The two will work together, fading the stain right before your eyes.

Hot Boiling Water

Using the boiling water technique is easy if the stain is on clothing. Dip the stained cloth into the boiling water (this is more effective if the stain has not yet had time to set). You can also stretch the garment over an empty bowl and pour the boiling water through, like a filter. The hot water, will lift the stain right out of the fabric. If the stain is on carpet or upholstery, dip a rag into the boiling water and blot.

Baking Soda

Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, the baking soda will begin to absorb the color from the stain, like magic!

Peroxide and Detergent

Mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and dishwashing liquid. Apply to the stain, like a pre-treatment. Launder as usual. Do not use this technique on fabrics that require dry cleaning. Peroxide can also be used on carpet in small doses, but should be followed up with a water and carpet cleaner mixture, then blot with a dry cloth to remove excess moisture. Make sure you let the area dry completely before walking on it.

For best results, try to tend to stains as soon as possible. The longer a stain sets, the harder it will be to get it out. Whatever you do, DON’T rub the stain. Rubbing will only make the stain worse and cause it to “bleed” into other areas. Blotting is always best.