How does a red wine stain come out?

Don’t panic at the sight of a stain! The following tricks will help save your shirt from ending up in the… trash.
As delightful as red wine may be, it's always been a serious enemy of men’s shirts — especially silk ones. The stain it leaves is among the most stubborn you’ll face, and if you don’t act quickly, your brand-new cotton shirt might not survive.
Before tossing it in the washing machine and saying a prayer, you can treat the stain using simple household items.

Dried or Old Stain

If the stain has dried and set in, try this time-tested solution:

Cleaning solution:

• 1 part hydrogen peroxide (3%)

• 1 part liquid laundry detergent

Application:
Apply the solution to the stain and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Rinse with cold water and wash as usual.

Important: Always test any mixture on a small, hidden area of the fabric first to prevent discoloration.

Stain on carpet, sofa, or upholstery

• Blot the liquid gently — do not rub.

• Mix the following solution:

  • 1 tablespoon dish soap

  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

  • 1 cup lukewarm water

• Dab the stain with a soft cloth or sponge until it lifts.

• Wipe with a clean damp cloth and let it air dry.

Emergency Tip

An old trick: Pour a little white wine over the red wine stain to help break it down.
Only use this for fresh stains and when no other cleaning agent is available.

Salt – The Classic Ally

Salt is one of the most effective allies against red wine stains.
Take off your shirt and lay it flat on a table. Cover the stain generously with salt and let it sit for at least an hour.
The salt will absorb the wine, and you can then gently brush it off with a small brush.

Club Soda & Salt – The Smart Variation

One variation of the salt trick involves using club soda (carbonated water — not baking soda).
Pour the soda over the stain first, then add a layer of salt.
The carbonation, combined with the salt, often yields excellent results.

Milk – The Unexpected Fix

Act fast: Dab the stain gently with a small towel soaked in hot tea (do not rub).
Then pour enough milk over the stain to soak it.
After about an hour, hand-wash the shirt and the stain should disappear.

Shaving Foam – Yes, Really

Fill the sink with warm water and soak the stained shirt.
Apply shaving foam directly to the stain and rub gently.
Repeat as needed until the stain is gone.

Baking Soda – The “Cleanest” Choice

Instead of salt, you can use baking soda for equal or better results.
Sprinkle generously over the stain, let it sit, then rinse with cold water.
Wash as usual.

Ouzo or White Spirits – For the Brave

You can try using ouzo or other clear spirits like vodka directly on the stain.
Red wine lifts off and the stain fades away — but this method carries risks.
Some fabrics don’t tolerate alcohol well and you may end up with a permanent mark instead of a clean shirt. Use only if you're willing to take the chance.

Conclusion

The quicker you act, the greater the chance of saving your clothes or fabrics.
If you have a secret cleaning tip of your own, share it with our team!

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