How to Get Red Wine Out of Clothes?

There’s nothing quite like a glass of red wine to unwind after a long day. But let’s be honest—a spill can turn that moment of relaxation into a mini-crisis. Red wine stains are notorious for being stubborn, but don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to tackle them, whether they’re fresh or have had time to set in.

Let’s look into some effective methods for getting red wine out of clothes, starting with the easiest steps and moving on to more intensive approaches for those tough stains.

Easy Method: Act Fast with Salt and Cold Water

When it comes to fresh stains, time is of the essence. These quick steps can work wonders and save your favorite shirt or pants from a permanent mark.

Blot the Stain Immediately

• What You’ll Need: A clean cloth or paper towel
• How to Do It: Grab a cloth and gently blot the stain, absorbing as much wine as possible. Be careful not to rub, as this could spread the stain and push it deeper into the fabric.

Rinse with Cold Water

• What You’ll Need: Cold running water
• How to Do It: Hold the stained area under cold water, allowing the water to flow through the fabric. Cold water is your friend here—it helps prevent the stain from setting, especially on natural fabrics like cotton.

Sprinkle with Salt

• What You’ll Need: Table salt
• How to Do It: After blotting, sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the stain. Salt is a natural absorbent and can help draw the wine out of the fabric. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.

Intermediate Method: Vinegar and Baking Soda

If the stain has dried or the initial cleaning didn’t fully lift it, don’t worry. These household staples can break down the color and help you get the stain out.

Soak in White Vinegar

• What You’ll Need: White vinegar, cold water
• How to Do It: Mix equal parts white vinegar and cold water in a bowl. Soak the stained area in the mixture for 15–30 minutes. Vinegar is a natural stain remover that breaks down the pigments in red wine, making it easier to remove.

Create a Baking Soda Paste

• What You’ll Need: Baking soda, water
• How to Do It: After soaking, make a paste using three parts baking soda and one part water. Apply the paste over the stain, let it sit for an hour, then rinse with cold water.

Advanced Method: Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap

This method requires a bit more effort but is highly effective on old or stubborn stains. Just be cautious—hydrogen peroxide can bleach darker fabrics, so test it on an inconspicuous spot first.

Mix Hydrogen Peroxide and Dish Soap

• What You’ll Need: Hydrogen peroxide, dish soap
• How to Do It: Mix equal parts hydrogen peroxide and dish soap. Dab a small amount onto the stain and gently work it in using a soft cloth or brush.

Let the Mixture Sit, Then Rinse

• What You’ll Need: Cold water
• How to Do It: Leave the solution on the stain for about 10–15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. If any traces of the stain remain, repeat the process until the wine is gone.

Professional-Level Solution: Stain Removal Product

For those really tough stains, it might be time to bring out the big guns. An enzymatic stain remover or professional cleaning product can help tackle even the most stubborn stains.

Apply Stain Remover According to Directions

• What You’ll Need: Stain removal product (e.g., OxiClean, Wine Away)
• How to Do It: Follow the instructions on your chosen stain remover, as these vary by product. Generally, you’ll apply it to the stain, let it sit, then wash the garment in cold water.

Wash and Check

• After applying the product, wash the clothing as usual and check that the stain is completely gone before drying. Drying can set a stain permanently, so make sure there are no traces left.

FAQs

So, the next time you find yourself with a red wine stain, don’t stress. With these methods, you’ll be back to enjoying your glass of wine in no time!