How to Remove Red Wine Stains from Upholstery

Pouring red wine into a tall wine glass.
  • 1 hours
  • Beginner
  • 25
What You'll Need
Paper towels
Warm water
Salt
Sponge
Talcum powder
Brush
Vinegar
Liquid detergent
Upholstery cleaner
What You'll Need
Paper towels
Warm water
Salt
Sponge
Talcum powder
Brush
Vinegar
Liquid detergent
Upholstery cleaner

A few too many glasses of red wine can end in a spill on your chair or sofa. You don't have to regret your accident the next morning, however, if you act quickly and using the proper methods for removal. Here is a very quick guide on how you can manage this minor issue smoothly.

Step 1 – Blot the Stain with Paper Towels

As soon as there is a spill, immediately blot the liquid with paper towels. If the stain is an old one, however, and it has dried, you can immediately proceed to the next step.

Step 2 – Sponge the Stain with Warm Water

Mix warm water and salt, soak a sponge with it, and blot and scrub the stained fabric. A new stain will usually be diluted by the warm water and come off on the sponge, so wring it out and resoak it every so often so you don't spread the problem. Old, set-in stains are hard to remove, but some can be taken care of with this method anyway. For tougher spots, try the solution in step four.

Step 3 – Use Talcum Powder

Spread some talcum powder over the stain and let it stand for a few minutes (about three to five minutes will do). With a brush, spread and scrub the powder over the area. Remove it afterward using the same brush. Repeat step two at this time and assess if the stain has been completely removed. If not, proceed to step four.

Step 4 – Drop Small Amount of Vinegar and Brush It

If you keep on trying to remove red wine stains, but it is too stubborn to come off, try dropping some vinegar on it and brushing it off. The acidity of the vinegar will usually help in removing the wine fast.

Step 5 – Pour on Liquid Detergent

After brushing the stain with vinegar, pour a small amount of liquid detergent on it to finally lift away any remaining wine on the upholstery. Then, clean it off with the sponge and warm water and blot with a new paper towel.

Step 6 – If All Else Fails, Get an Upholstery Cleaner

The above process is designed to minimize your expenses by using readily available household cleaners to get rid of the spill. However, if the spot is truly stubborn and will not come off after the previous steps, then perhaps you should purchase an upholstery cleaner from your local hardware or do-it-yourself store. Some are sold cheaply and all you need to do is to spray it on the stain directly and, with a brush, scrub away. Always rinse afterward with the sponge that is dampened with the warm water, and dry it with your paper towels. Repeat this process as needed if the stain persists.