How to Remove Red Wine Stains
WHAT TO KNOW
What makes wine so tough to deal with is the fact that it's a composition stain, made up of a dye component, a sugar component, and a tannin component. Because of this, the removal process is multifaceted and tends to be more complicated than most other dye removals.
Be sure to flush well and repeatedly, and be aware that if you don't complete the flushing process, whatever residual dye remains will set into the fabric. Patience -- sometimes hours of it -- is paramount.
Additionally, you should know that "tamping," the process described in the video below, is the proper way to seal in any chemicals or solvents used to dispel the stain. It's an up-and-down pouncing technique, and it's far more effective than rubbing or any other back-and-forth movement.
WHAT TO DO
1. Spray diluted dishwashing-soap solution on stain; tamp with a soft-bristled brush.
2. Flush with water, apply white vinegar, and tamp; let stand several minutes, flush again.
3. If stain remains, apply hydrogen peroxide, and let stand.
4. If stain persists, apply 1 or 2 drops of ammonia to wet area. Flush with water. Treat with an enzyme detergent; wash.
5. If stain is still there, apply a powdered nonchlorinated color-safe bleach, such as sodium percarbonate; rewash.
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