A glass of red wine can be the perfect companion to a relaxed evening—until it ends up spilled on your favourite tablecloth or couch. Red wine stains are notorious for setting quickly and becoming difficult to remove. But don’t panic just yet! With the right approach, you can save your fabrics and linens before they’re permanently marked.
Here’s a simple, effective guide to help you remove red wine stains with confidence.
Step 01: Act fast!
Time is everything when it comes to wine spills. The sooner you can treat the stain, the better your chances of removing it completely. As soon as the spill happens, gently blot (don’t rub) the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much of the wine as possible. Rubbing only spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fabric.
Step 02: Use salt or baking soda for absorption.
Once you’ve blotted up the excess liquid, cover the stain with a generous layer of salt or baking soda. Both are highly absorbent and can help draw the wine out of the fabric. Leave it for at least 5–10 minutes, then gently brush it off. This trick works especially well for fresh stains on table linens or fabric upholstery.
Step 03: Treat with cold water & dish soap.
Mix a solution of cold water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Dab the stained area with a clean sponge or cloth soaked in the solution, working from the outside of the stain inward. Avoid using hot water, as it can set the stain. Repeat the process until the wine starts to lift. For stubborn spots, a touch of white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide can be used with caution on light-coloured fabrics.
Step 04: Launder or rinse carefully.
If the stained item is machine washable, rinse it under cold water, then wash as usual—but avoid putting it in the dryer until the stain is completely gone, as heat can make it permanent. For upholstery or items that can’t be laundered, repeat the spot-cleaning process or call in the pros.
Call Sweepsouth in for the tough jobs.
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you’ll need a helping hand to remove red wine stains—especially from upholstered furniture or carpets. That’s where Sweepsouth can step in. We connect you with vetted professionals who have the tools and experience to clean fabrics and restore your home to its best.
ALSO SEE: HOW TO CLEAN SCUFFS & STAINS FROM INTERIOR WALLS.
