7 Red Wine Stain Removal Methods
We all spill. Fortunately, red wine stain removal has never been easier thanks to these easy steps!
During the holidays especially, you're bound to attend a few parties and maybe even host one or two! Holiday or not, we can't deny wine and parties go hand in hand, and because we're only human, there are bound to be a couple spills along the way. Never fear! We've come up with 7 different ways to get red wine stains out of your clothes, carpet, and furniture so you can make the most out of this holiday season (and every season) and truly enjoy each and every party-going experience to fullest.
There is quite a bit of debate about what wine stain removal methods actually work — some of them feel more like old wive's tales than real solutions. No matter the method, though, there are two rules to keep in mind: first, time is of the essence. The longer the stain is allowed to sit, the harder it is to remove. Second, blot the stain, don't rub. Blotting lifts the color pigments while rubbing actually spreads the stain and sets it faster.
Below are seven of the most effective ways to remove red wine stains. They all include common household dissolvents and solutions. Keep this collection in mind the next time you throw a party and Aunt Mae gets a little too heavy-handed with her glass of Pinot. These methods will help you keep calm and save on a hefty drycleaning bill or professional carpet cleaner.
The 7 Most Common and Effective Ways to Remove a Red Wine Stain
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Douse with Vodka
It may seem counterintuitive to pour more alcohol onto the wine stain, but there is science to back up this method. Spirits with a higher alcohol proof actually help dissolve the color pigments in red wine. Next time you need a quick red wine stain removal, grab the bottle of fancy vodka that's been sitting in the back of your cabinet for a year. Pour vodka onto the stain, let it soak blot up the liquid, and then wash as normal. -
Soak in Milk
In the unfortunate event that you spill some wine on your clothes, don't stress! Simply soak the stain in milk and then hand scrub with soap. This method leaves the fabric looking like new! If you decide to blot a red wine-stained carpet with milk, be sure to thoroughly dab with cold water afterward to avoid any residue. -
Blot with Club Soda
This tried-and-true method requires a little bit more elbow grease on your part. Pour club soda on the stain and then spend some time blotting the stain to lift it from your carpet or fabric. The bubbles in club soda help break up the stain, but the real key to the success of this method might be in the fabric itself. Carpets are usually made from synthetic fibers, which slowly absorb stains. Natural fibers, on the other hand, absorb them more quickly. If you decide to use this club soda method, start blotting as soon as you can! -
Use Salt, Boiling Water, and a Washing Machine
This method is a great way to remove red wine stains if the stain is on a fabric that won't set quickly and if you have the ingredients on hand. Cover the stain with salt for about five minutes. Next, pour boiling water on it before tossing the cloth into your washing machine on the hot water setting.
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Soak with Dish Soap and Hydrogen Peroxide
Like with most other methods, blot the excess liquid with a paper towel. Then mix together a solution of equal parts liquid dish soap and hydrogen peroxide. Let the solution soak into the stain and then toss it in the wash.
An important note: only use this method on light-colored fabrics because hydrogen peroxide is a bleaching agent. -
Soak with White Wine and Baking Soda
To use this method, soak the stain in white wine first and then make a thick paste of three parts baking soda to 1 part water. Spread the paste onto the stain. Periodically spray it with water to keep it damp. Once you see that the stain has lifted, wash the fabric as usual. If you're uneasy about pouring white wine onto the stain, you can use water instead. -
Use Shaving Cream
For this simple stain removal method, work shaving cream into the stained carpet or fabric. Use a warm, damp sponge or towel to remove the excess shaving cream. Scrub the stain where and if needed. Finally, blot the area with a dry towel once all of the shaving cream and red wine has been removed.
References
1. Red Wine Stain Removal Methods from thefabricofourlives.com
2. 7 Ways to Remove a Red Wine Stain from Thrillist
