How to Remove Red Wine Stains: 6 Stain-Removing Methods

There are plenty of stain-removal cleaning products that claim to remove red wine stains. However, there are also many options readily available in your own home. Check out the following DIY, stain-removing methods:

1. 1. Table salt. For red wine stain removal, press a paper towel or clean cloth (a white cloth is best) over the stained area, blotting as much as you can. Avoid rubbing, as it can push the stain deeper into the fibers. Liberally apply salt over the area until it is completely covered. Let the salt settle for a few minutes, then vacuum up the remains. You may also use any other dry powdery ingredient like baking soda or talcum powder as an alternative to salt.
2. 2. Milk. Milk has absorbing properties and can also be used to remove a red wine stain. Blot the stain first, then pour some milk over it and let it soak in. Boiling the milk first may enhance its wine-absorbing properties.
3. 3. White vinegar and club soda. Both club soda and distilled white vinegar are common stain removers—they work great on their own, but can also work well when mixed together. Club soda helps break up stain molecules, while the white vinegar can also help dissolve the stain and remove any lingering odors.
4. 4. Dishwashing liquid and hydrogen peroxide. Make your own oxygen-cleaner by mixing three parts hydrogen peroxide and one part dish soap. Apply to your stain, then let sit for 30 minutes to an hour. When enough time has passed, blot the stain with paper towels, then clean in the washing machine, if the stained item is machine-washable. If you’re dealing with a dry, older stain and have a commercial stain remover product handy (like a specialized laundry detergent or stain stick), apply the dishwasher liquid directly to the stain, then let soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes before you launder with the product.
5. 5. Hot water. You may have heard that cold water works best for stain removal, but certain fabrics work better with hot water. If your stain is on a removable material like a thick sheet or tablecloth, stretch the fabric until it’s taut, then pour the boiling water over the stain. Make sure to keep a safe distance as you pour so as not to burn yourself. Certain fabrics may respond differently to different stain treatments, but a general rule of stain removal is to never use dry heat. If you’ve made a material wet with treatment, do not put it into the dryer or dry-clean until the stain lifts.
6. 6. Bleach (for white colors only). If you’ve stained a white shirt or bedsheet, you can soak it in bleach for about 10 to 15 minutes. Afterward, wash the material in hot water to lift the stain. For your safety, keep bleach away from your eyes and mouth. Wash your hands after working with it.

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