Here’s a DIY how-to for removing red wine stains from carpet

Holiday parties and family get togethers inevitably result in spills on your carpet or upholstery. The stain that we all fear the most? Red wine. Here’s our PRO tip for solution that really does work for getting these stains out.

Red Wine Stain Treatment

First step: blot, blot, blot: If it is a new spill, use a white cloth or paper towels to blot as much of the red wine spill as you can. Follow this with pouring a bit of cold water directly onto the wine stain. Doing this helps dilute what remains of the stain. Continue with blotting until no more of the stain is coming out.

IMPORTANT! Don’t forget to test: Of course, your stains don’t always cooperate by appearing in inconspicuous areas, but do keep in mind that it is always recommended that you first test any cleaning solution on a portion of carpet or upholstery that is out of the way.

The Dish Soap and White Wine Vinegar Solution Method

This method is great for red wine and a host of other tough stains.

1. Pour two cups of warm water into a bowl. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar and another tablespoon of dishwashing liquid.
2. Dip a sponge into the bowl and wring out well. Then begin applying the solution directly onto the wine stain. You should see immediate lifting of the stain, but continue blotting until the stain has lifted completely.
3. Follow with blotting the area with clear water, then blotting dry with a clean white towel or paper towels.

Let your carpet and upholstery cleaning PRO help: On your next scheduled cleaning, show your technician the area. Any remaining stain residue can be treated and cleaned.

This is one of a series of articles written and published  on behalf of Stone and Tile PRO Partners.