How to remove red wine stains 'from anything' using just one kitchen staple

A spilled glass of red wine on cream-coloured carpets, rugs, or sofas could indeed send anyone into a state of alarm.

While the immediate response might be to fervently scrub at the stain, wine connoisseurs from La Crema have cautioned that such actions could worsen the situation, potentially making the mark permanent.

These experts insist that it is possible to remove red wine stains "from anything with swift action and the right technique. The cause of red wine staining is tannins natural compounds in grapes skins, seeds, and stems which give the beverage its intense shade and affinity for clinging to fabrics.

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Compounds called chromogens, also found in other beverages like coffee and tea, contribute to red wine's vivid, deep hue making spills particularly noticeable, reports the Express.

"Scrubbing will help pull some of the red wine out, but actually negatively impacts the stain as it causes it to spread outward even more," they explained. "And, if you're applying too much pressure, you're actually pushing more red wine down into the fabric. This is especially true if you're dealing with a red wine stain on the couch or on the carpet."

Moreover, La Cremas specialists advise against the use of dry heat, such as from a hairdryer, as this could set the spillage into a permanent or nearly permanent stain. Rather, they suggest employing a dry, powdery material for absorbing the spill effectively.

"Like any liquid, red wine will move toward anything dry that it comes into contact with. Your best move right after you get a red wine stain is to grab a dry, powdery material and apply it generously on the red wine stain," they said.

How to clean a red wine stain

It's essential to act promptly. Experts suggest scouring your kitchen for a porous powder like table salt as soon as the mishap occurs.

Here's the method to follow:

1. Sprinkle the salt, or a similar absorbent powder, over the blighted area and let it sit for several minutes. Specialists assert that this should lift the mark, provided you're quick off the mark.

2. Contrary to perhaps a scrubbing inclination, wine experts issue firm guidance: "never" scrub at the stain. They recommend adopting a gentle blotting approach using paper towels or a tea cloth to clear away any remaining salt or powder.

Stain still stubborn? Turn to an oxi cleaner containing sodium percarbonate, which transforms into hydrogen peroxide when it meets water.

If you have no oxi cleaner on hand, combine common washing-up liquid with hydrogen peroxide instead. Mix three parts hydrogen peroxide with one part washing-up liquid, and attend to your stain. Allow the solution to penetrate for about 20 minutes up to an hour before blotting everything away.