Spilling red wine on your carpet or upholstery can be a nightmare, but don't worry - there are a few methods you can use to remove those stubborn stains. In this blog post, we'll walk you through some traditional methods and compare them to a professional solution, the Dirtbusters Red Wine Remover.
Important, must read!: It is important to state, that although we are going to discuss alternative methods of removing red wine stains using traditional methods, we do not recommend this as the treatment to use. We are presenting the most common suggestions found on the internet today, to use in comparison to a professional solution - So you as the reader can have an impartial & informed opinion on the method which is best for you.
Why do we not recommend the traditional methods such as baking soda?
We are experts in carpet cleaning, with over 30+ years of experience. Running a commercial business over this time, we have learnt what works and is most effective. We only recommend the safest & most effective way in removing red wine stains at home without causing any damage to your expensive carpets & upholstery.
Traditional Method 1: Blot with Cold Water and Dish Soap
Tools Needed:
- Clean white cloth or paper towels
- Cold water
- Soak up as much of the red wine as possible with a clean cloth or paper towels.
- Pour cold water over the stain and blot it with another clean cloth or paper towels.
- Mix a few drops of dish soap with cold water and apply it to the stain.
- Blot the stain with a clean white cloth or paper towels until it disappears.
- Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a clean cloth or paper towels.
Pros:
- This method is simple and uses common household items.
- It is safe for most types of carpets and upholstery.
Cons:
- Its not the most effective detergent to remove tannins from the red wine, and may still leave staining
- No deodorising qualities
- It may not work on stubborn or old stains
- It could potentially damage the fabric or make the stain worse
Traditional Method 2: Use Hydrogen Peroxide and Baking Soda
Tools Needed:
- Hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
- Baking soda
- Vacuum cleaner
- Clean white cloth or paper towels
- Cold water
- Soak up as much of the red wine as possible with a clean cloth or paper towels
- Mix a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) with baking soda to make a paste
- Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for a few hours
- Vacuum up the dried paste and rinse the area with cold water
- Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towels to dry it.
Pros:
- This method can work on old or stubborn stains.
- It is relatively simple to do.
Cons:
- It could potentially damage the fabric or make the stain worse.
- It may not work on all types of carpets and upholstery.
- Dilution can easily be incorrect
- Risky & potentially not safe
Pro Method: Use Dirtbusters Red Wine Remover (Our recommendation)
Tools Needed:
- Clean cloth or paper towels
- Warm water
- Dirtbusters Red Wine Remover
- Soak up as much of the red wine as possible with a clean white cloth or paper towels.
- Apply Dirtbusters Red Wine Remover onto the stain and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Blot the stain with a clean white cloth or paper towels until it disappears.
- Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a clean cloth or paper towels.
Pros:
- This product is designed specifically for red wine stains and is highly effective - acids breakdown red wine tannins from fibres for easy removal
- It is safe for most types of carpets and upholstery
Cons:
- You may not have it readily available - but you can get it delivered next day here.
Do's and Don'ts:
- Do act quickly to blot up as much of the stain as possible.
- Do use warm water to rinse the stain, as hot water can set the stain in
- Don't use bleach or vinegar on red wine stains, as they can make the stain worse
- Don't scrub the stain, as this can damage the fabric
Summary:
Removing red wine stains from carpets and upholstery can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and methods, it can be done effectively. While traditional methods may work in some cases, they can also damage the fabric or make the stain worse. Using a product like Dirtbusters Red Wine Remover can be a safer and more effective solution. Remember to act quickly, use warm water, and avoid scrubbing the stain to prevent further damage to your carpet.
- 1 Litre of professional grade Red Wine & Red stain remover to effectively remove stains from all carpets*, upholstery, clothing, cushions & fabrics
- Acidic formula breaks down stubborn red wine tannins & set in stains from the fabrics fibers for easy stain removal
- Quick, easy & simple solution to clean away stains from: Red Wine & Red Foods
- Treats Carpets, Rugs, Upholstery, Fabric Sofas & Armchairs - Use as an upholstery stain cleaner, spot remover & stain remover for clothes
- Designed to remove red wine spillages with ease returning fibres back to their original colour
- Stress-free, cost-effective red wine stain removal
- From professional or domestic use to keep carpets clean & stain free
