Red Wine on Carpet: Stain Removal Guide

Red wine is one of the most stubborn carpet stains. That’s usually why there are sharp intakes of breath when a glass is spilled. It can be very difficult to get rid of such a stubborn stain and there are a lot of myths about what can take red wine out of carpet. But never fear – as this post will outline a stain-removal guide that works!

Remember, when it comes to red wine stain removal, speed is your friend. The quicker you react to the stain, the more likely you can remove it successfully.

6 ways of removing a red wine stain

1. Cold water

To remove a red wine stain, cold water is preferable to hot. This is because red wine's tannins (a natural substance found in grapes) dissolve easier with cold water, making it easier to remove them from carpet fibres. Lightly dab the stain with a damp cloth to absorb the wine. Carbonated water is recommended due to its acidity – this will help with dissolving the stain.

2. White vinegar

There are lots of types of vinegar, from apple cider and malt to balsamic. But when it comes to removing red wine out of carpet, white vinegar is the only one that will work. Any other type will cause spots on the fabric that will be almost impossible to remove.

Dab out as much of the red wine as possible, before adding a squirt of white vinegar to the stain and leaving it for around 30 minutes. Then wash the whole area with cold water, scrubbing it gently with a soft cloth.

3. Hydrogen peroxide

Using hydrogen peroxide should be done carefully as it can bleach some fabrics. But mixed along with dish soap, it is a great solution for removing red wine stains. With one part dish soap and three parts hydrogen peroxide, use a cloth to apply to the stain and leave it for around 30 minutes.

Blot the stain, clean with a damp cloth and repeat the process if you need to.

4. Baking soda

Baking soda is an effective stain remover that is safe to use on carpets as well as clothing. Slightly alkaline, it will make a gentle paste when combined with cold water (three parts baking soda and one part water). Apply to the red wine stain and leave it to dry before vacuuming the paste off from the carpet.

5.  Salt

Salt is an easy and affordable way to treat a red wine on carpet. Blot to remove excess liquid and cover the stain with salt. Leave for a few minutes before vacuuming the salt. It will absorb the red wine and pull the colour away from the carpet. Scrub gently to make sure that any remaining stain is loosened and removed.

6. Ready-made solutions

If you aren’t sure about using DIY solutions and would rather stick to shop-bought mixtures, there are plenty to choose from. Whether it’s a spray, foam or liquid, you’re sure to find one that suits. Just be sure to check the product description to see if it’s suitable for red wine on carpets, as well as the reviews to see if it’s worked for other people!

Book a professional for a hassle-free clean

Sometimes those stubborn stains are too difficult to remove with a DIY clean and it makes more sense to get the professionals in. If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced carpet cleaner for red wine stain removal, the National Carpet Cleaning Association (NCCA) is an easy way to find a trusted cleaner in your area.

Call 01562 547754 or use our online search service. Simply tell us what service you need along with your postcode, and you’ll be spoilt for choice!