Red Wine Stains? Don’t Panic! Here’s How to Save Your Favorite Outfit

Step 1: Act Fast

The key to beating a red wine stain is addressing it immediately. The longer the stain sits, the harder it will be to remove. Blot, don’t rub, the stain with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. Rubbing will only spread the wine and push it deeper into the fabric.

Step 2: Sprinkle Salt (or Baking Soda)

Salt is your first line of defense. Sprinkle a generous amount over the stain while it’s still wet. The salt will start to absorb the wine. If you don’t have salt on hand, baking soda works just as well. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to pull out the moisture.

Step 3: Rinse with Cold Water

Hold the stained area under cold running water from the back of the fabric. This helps push the wine out of the fibers instead of deeper into the material. Avoid hot water, as it can set the stain.

Step 4: Apply a Stain Remover Solution

Here’s where the magic happens. Mix a solution of one part dish soap and two parts hydrogen peroxide. Gently dab the solution onto the stain using a sponge or clean cloth. The dish soap breaks down oils, while hydrogen peroxide lifts the stain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Wash the Fabric

If the fabric is washable, place it in the washing machine on a cold cycle. Use a detergent designed for stain removal. For delicate fabrics or items that require extra care, consider bringing them to Scrubby’s Laundry Center, where our professional-grade machines and staff can help ensure the stain is fully treated.