Are you dealing with an embarrassing red wine stain on your sweatshirt? Don't worry, there is help! Read on to learn everything you need to know about safely and effectively removing those pesky wine stains.
Updated 14 Feb 2023
By Noemi Denker
Wine stains are more complicated than other food or drink stains because the red pigment found in red wine is difficult to remove. This is because it has a combination of tannins and dyes, which when mixed with oxygen from air can create a stubborn stain.
If the wine stain is still fresh, you should use cold water to rinse the material. Do not use hot water as this will only set the stain. After you rinse the fabric, blot the stain with a white cloth to try and absorb as much of the liquid as possible.
Next, apply a stain remover directly on the stain. You can either make your own stain remover or use a commercial product. If you make your own, combine equal parts white vinegar, baking soda, and salt into a paste and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before washing.
It's important to note that vinegar can cause colors to fade, so you should test your stain remover solution on a hidden area of the material first. After treating stain, put item in the washing machine and allow it to go through the cycle.
If the stain still remains after washing, you can repeat the process until it is gone. If that doesn't work, you may need to take your sweatshirt to the dry cleaners for professional cleaning.
The best way to avoid dealing with red wine stains is to take precautions to prevent them in the first place. If you know you'll be drinking red wine, make sure to wear a shirt that isn't light colored. If you do spill some wine, immediately blot spot with a white cloth to try and absorb as much of the liquid as possible.
Removing red wine stains can be a challenge, but with the right know-how and process, you can get even the toughest stains out. Just remember to be patient and consistent when removing the stain. Also, it's always a good idea to take preventative measures to avoid wine stains in future.
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