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Introduction: Dealing with Red Wine Stains
A spilled glass of red wine can turn a relaxing evening into a stressful moment. Whether it’s on your shirt, couch, or carpet, knowing the right red wine stain removal techniques can save your favorite items.
This guide is here to walk you through how to remove red wine stains fast and effectively—plus a few expert tricks to handle older and more stubborn stains.
And if you’re a wine lover, don’t worry—we’ll also recommend a few exceptional reds you can enjoy without fear, all available from communitywineandspirits.com.
The Science of a Red Wine Stain
Red wine contains tannins, pigments, and natural acids. These elements bind to fabrics quickly, especially on absorbent materials like cotton or linen. That’s why acting fast is important when dealing with a red wine stain.
A fresh spill is much easier to clean than one that has dried. But even if you’ve missed the moment, there are still ways to manage red wine stains.
First Steps: Blot and Don’t Rub
If you’ve just spilled, the first step in stain removal is to gently blot the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Don’t rub—it will push the stain deeper into the fibers.
Place another towel or paper under the fabric if possible, especially when dealing with a shirt or tablecloth. This helps stop the stain from spreading further.
How to Remove Red Wine Stain from Clothes
Once you’ve blotted the area, here are a few trusted methods to try:
Salt Method (For Fresh Spills)
Sprinkle salt generously over the red wine stain. Let it absorb the moisture. After 5 to 10 minutes, brush it off and rinse with cold water.
Baking Soda Paste
Mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water. Apply it to the stain and let it sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and wash the fabric with cold water.
Club Soda
Pour club soda directly onto the stain. The bubbles help lift the wine pigment from the fabric. Blot again with a clean cloth.
If your concern is regarding how to remove red wine stains, these methods work well for removing red wine stains from white shirts and everyday clothing. For deeper stain removal from silk or linen, professional cleaning is often best.
How to Get Red Wine Stains Out of Clothes That Are Dry
Old stains need a deeper clean. If you’re worried about how to get red wine stains out of clothes, follow these simple steps.
Soak the clothing in cold water mixed with an oxygen-based bleach (like OxiClean) overnight. Then wash normally. Avoid hot water—it can set the stain permanently.
Enzyme-based cleaners or products like Wine Away may also help with removing red wine stains from clothes.
How to Remove Red Wine Stain from Upholstery and Couches
Got a red wine stain on your couch or upholstered chair? Here’s how to handle it:
- Blot the stain with a clean cloth immediately.
- Mix dish soap and white vinegar with water (1:1:2 ratio).
- Use a sponge to apply the solution to the stained area.
- Blot gently. Do not saturate the upholstery.
- Rinse with clean water and blot to dry.
This method works well for removing red wine stains from fabric-covered chairs or couches.
If the wine stain has dried, consider using a steam cleaner or calling a professional upholstery cleaner for help with stubborn red wine stain removals.
Removing Red Wine Stains from Carpets
Carpet absorbs quickly, so acting fast is essential.
- Blot the stain, then pour cold club soda on the area.
- Blot again and apply a mix of dish soap and hydrogen peroxide (test a small area first).
- Let sit for 10 minutes and blot again.
A carpet stain cleaner like Wine Away can also be helpful in removing dried red wine stains.
Red Wine Stain on Stone or Quartz Countertops
Natural stones are porous. Wine can seep in and cause stains that are almost impossible to remove.
- Blot the red wine spill right away.
- Clean with mild dish soap and warm water.
- Avoid acids like vinegar—they can damage the finish.
For tough stains, use a cleaner made specifically for marble or quartz.
Red Wine Stain Removal for Teeth
Red wine can stain teeth too. To reduce staining:
- Rinse with water after drinking.
- Brush gently with baking soda once a week.
Recommended Wines from Community Wine & Spirits
Spills happen—but great wine is worth the risk. Here are some red wines we love and recommend (just be careful where you pour):
- The Prisoner Red Wine 2021 – a bold California blend with notes of plum, spice, and black cherry. A fan favorite.
Shop Now - Badenhorst Secateurs Red Blend 2021 – a smooth, earthy red with dark fruit flavors. Ideal for slow sips on cozy nights.
Explore Here - Discover even more in our curated red wine section. From Pinot Noir to bold blends, we’ve got something for everyone.
Browse Reds
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s your shirt, your rug, or your favorite couch, red wine stain removal is possible with the right tools and timing. From baking soda to dish soap to commercial stain removers, acting quickly is your best defense.
Don’t let a small spill ruin a great night. Enjoy your wine, and if the unexpected happens—use this guide to get rid of those tough red wine stains.
And for your next bottle, explore our red wine collection at Community Wine & Spirits. It’s the perfect place to find your new favorite—and we promise it’s worth the risk of a little spill.
For the best bottles, visit Community Wine and Spirits. Their hand-picked selection of dry red wines makes it easy to find the right wine for any occasion.
