How To Clean Wine Stains

There’s nothing like the joy of opening a bottle of your favorite wine, but spilling a glass can ruin your day. Luckily, there are tricks that you can use to effectively remove wine stains.

However, first, it’s crucial to understand how wine’s chemical makeup can contribute to its tenacity as a stain. With a deeper understanding of wine science, you’ll be more prepared to remove wine stains from anything.

Why Are Wine Stains So Stubborn?

Wine stains owe their persistence to anthocyanins, which are natural pigments derived from grape skins. In the winemaking process, anthocyanins change into more complex compounds like carboxypyranoanthocyanins and vitisins, thanks to reactions during fermentation and aging. 

These pigments, tannins, and acids in the wine bind tightly to fabric fibers or surface pores. Tannins strengthen this bond, while the acidic nature of wine helps preserve the color, making the stains vibrant and stubborn. This is why wine stains are such a pain to get out. 

Types of Wines and Their Composition

Wine 101 teaches you that wines can be broadly categorized into four major types: red, white, rosé, and sparkling. Each type has a unique chemical makeup influencing its interaction with fabrics and surfaces.

• Red wines: Known for their bold flavors and deep red color, which results from extended grape skin contact during fermentation, red wine is high in tannins and anthocyanin pigments. These pigments create vivid stains needing quick action. While there are myths about using white wine or salt to remove red wine stains, the best option is always a specialized cleaning product for wine stains like Wine Away. Follow the package instructions, then wash the garment according to the care label.
• White wines: These are fermented without grape skins, resulting in a lighter color and flavors ranging from sweet to dry. Despite being less pigmented, white wine’s acidity can damage delicate fabrics, even if the stains are less visible. Using baking soda to neutralize the acid before washing can help.
• Rosé: The signature pink color of rosé comes from short contact with grape skins, offering a range of sweetness and crisp flavors. Though not as dark as red wine, rosé stains still pose a challenge due to their color and acidity. Blot gently, then flush with cold water to stop the stain from setting before washing.
• Sparkling wines: Sparkling wine, including champagnes, is fizzy and varies from sweet to very dry. Its fizziness can spread stains faster, but its lighter color makes stains less intense. Soaking in cool water and using enzymatic laundry detergent can remove these stains.

Take note of the type of wine spilled and choose your cleaning method accordingly. 

Best Chemicals and Methods for Cleaning Wine Stains

When dealing with wine stains, you will need to balance the cleaning chemicals’ strength with the item’s delicacy. Some cleaners can harm delicate surfaces, so opt for gentler methods to avoid damage. Here’s a detailed guide on the chemicals and methods that stand out in the battle against wine stains:

• Club soda: Ideal for light to moderate red wine stains on carpets and upholstery. Gently blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth to absorb the wine. Next, cover the stain with club soda; the carbonation lifts the stain from the fibers. Leave overnight and blot. Repeat if needed.
• Baking soda: Works well on dried or old wine stains on fabrics. To create a simple cleaning paste, combine three parts baking soda with one part water in a bowl. Blot away any liquid wine, apply the paste, let dry completely, and vacuum or brush off the residue.
• Rubbing alcohol: Effectively removes stubborn wine stains from clothing by dissolving the molecules.  Rub alcohol on the stain using a clean cloth. After a few minutes, blot the area with a water-soaked cloth. 
• Hydrogen peroxide and dish soap: For wine stains on white or light fabrics, make a mix of 2:1 parts hydrogen peroxide to dish soap. Apply to the stain, leave, and rinse with cold water before washing. Do a spot test, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach fabrics.
• Laundry detergent and white vinegar: For red wine stains on durable fabrics, mix laundry detergent with white vinegar. Apply the solution on the stain by gently rubbing and soaking it for a few minutes before washing

Whether a fresh spill or a dried stain, choosing the right method and acting quickly can help ensure your valued items remain spotless.

Clothing and Fabrics

The type of fiber matters when it comes to wine stains on clothing and how to get them out. Immediately dabbing the stain to soak up as much wine as possible is essential for most clothes. Check the care label on your clothes and do a spot test with your cleaning solution on a hidden area to avoid damaging the fabric or altering its color.

A mild dish soap and hydrogen peroxide mixture can be effective for tougher fabrics. For delicate materials, using a specialized stain remover intended for gentle fabrics is advisable. 

Carpet

Carpet fibers absorb liquids quickly, making immediate action essential to prevent the wine from setting deeply. Blot, but don’t rub, the stain with a clean cloth to absorb as much liquid as possible. 

You can then mix one tablespoon of dish soap and white vinegar with two cups of warm water. Apply the solution gently, blotting until the stain lifts. Use white cloths to avoid color transfer. After cleaning, cover the area with paper towels and a heavy object to absorb any leftover moisture.

Upholstery

Upholstery fabric can be more delicate and might not hold onto color as well as other materials. If you get a stain, dab it with dish soap and cool water. For those stubborn stains, try a gentle dab with a mix of vinegar and baking soda, then wipe it off after a few minutes. Always check the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions to avoid damage.

Countertops

Granite or marble countertops are often porous, making them susceptible to absorbing stains if not adequately sealed. A mixture of baking soda and water can effectively remove stains from granite. 

For more stubborn stains, hydrogen peroxide is advisable; apply it to the stain, cover it with plastic wrap, and allow it to work its magic overnight. 

Dishware

Glass, especially wine glasses and decanters, can clearly show water spots or residual wine stains. Fill the dishware with warm water and a denture-cleaning tablet, which is effective at removing stains without scratching the glass. For tough stains, create a paste with vinegar and baking soda, then rinse well.

Wood

Wood is highly absorbent and can be damaged by liquids and aggressive cleaning. For thorough cleaning, it’s advisable to use a dedicated wood cleaner designed to remove stains without damage. After cleaning, applying a small amount of oil can help restore and protect the wood’s surface. Don’t use water, as it can cause swelling and warping. Always follow with a wood conditioner to restore luster after cleaning.

Marble

Like granite, marble is porous and easily stained if not sealed properly. Blot the stain, then apply a poultice from baking soda and water. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit to draw out the stain. Avoid acidic cleaners to prevent etching on marble surfaces.

General Tips for Getting Wine Stains Out

Last but not least, here are some universal tips to keep in mind:

• Address wine spills promptly for better removal chances. Fresh stains are easier to handle than set-in ones.
• Blot, don’t rub with a dry cloth. Rubbing can push wine deeper into the fabric.
• Rinse with cold water before cleaning to avoid setting the stain.
• If the stained item is washable, always wash it thoroughly after treating the stain to remove any residual cleaning solution.
• If the stain is on a particularly delicate or valuable item, consider consulting a professional cleaner.

Whether enjoying a casual glass of wine at home from your wine club, exploring the depths of your taste with a wine tasting subscription, or selecting the perfect bottle as a gift, this knowledge ensures that an accidental spill won’t dampen your spirit or stain your memories.