How to tackle tough fabric stain removal

Spilled coffee, muddy paw prints, or a surprise ink stain—upholstery and fabric stains are an unavoidable part of life. But with the right approach, you can keep your furniture, curtains, and soft furnishings looking spotless. Fabric stain removal doesn’t have to be complicated; it just takes the right techniques and a little patience. Here’s how to tackle even the toughest stains—and how Sweepsouth can help keep your home looking fresh.

General tips for fabric stain removal.

Before you start scrubbing, keep these essential rules in mind:

  • Act fast – The sooner you address the stain, the better the chances of complete removal.
  • Blot, don’t rub – Rubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove.
  • Check the fabric type – Always read the care label to avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage delicate materials.

Now, let’s get into specific stain-fighting strategies!

How to remove common fabric stains.

1. Coffee & tea stains

That morning coffee spill doesn’t have to leave a permanent mark.

  • Blot with a paper towel to soak up excess liquid.
  • Mix warm water, dish soap, and white vinegar, then gently dab the stain with a clean cloth.
  • Rinse with cold water and blot dry.

2. Red wine stains

Spilled wine on the couch? Stay calm and follow these steps:

  • Sprinkle salt on the stain – it absorbs the liquid and makes it easier to clean.
  • Dab with club soda or white vinegar to lift the stain.
  • Use a mild detergent solution to remove any remaining residue.

3. Ink stains

A leaky pen can cause major fabric damage, but you can save your upholstery with this trick:

  • Dab with rubbing alcohol using a cotton ball—don’t rub!
  • Let it sit for a few minutes, then blot with a dry cloth.
  • Repeat if necessary and rinse with cold water.

4. Pet stains

If your furry friend has an accident, act quickly:

  • Blot up as much liquid as possible using a paper towel.
  • Apply a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda to neutralise odours and break down the stain.
  • Vacuum once dry to remove any remaining residue.

5. Grease & oil stains

Grease stains from food can be tricky, but here’s a simple fix:

  • Sprinkle cornstarch or baking soda on the stain and let it absorb the grease for 15 minutes.
  • Brush off the powder and apply dish soap, then rinse with warm water.

How Sweepsouth can help:

While DIY fabric stain removal methods work well, sometimes deep-set stains need professional attention. That’s where Sweepsouth comes in! SweepStars know how to handle different fabric types and use the right techniques to restore your upholstery to its original glory. Whether you need a once-off deep clean or regular home cleaning, Sweepsouth makes it easy to keep your home fresh and stain-free.

Tough stains don’t have to mean replacing your upholstery. With the right fabric stain removal tricks and a little help from Sweepsouth, your furniture and fabrics can stay looking as good as new. Book a professional cleaning today and let us take care of the stains while you enjoy a spotless home!

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ALSO SEE: HOW TO GET SWEAT STAINS OUT OF YOUR CLOTHES.

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