How to Remove a Red Wine Stain

Get red wine out of fabric fast using stuff you already have at home.

1. Blot (don't rub) the stain immediately with a clean cloth or paper towel

   Rubbing pushes the wine deeper into the fibers. Blot from the outside in to keep the stain from spreading.

2. Cover the stain generously with table salt and let it sit for 2-3 minutes

   The salt draws moisture and wine pigment out of the fabric. You'll see it start to turn pink.

3. Brush off the salt, then pour a mix of one part dish soap and two parts hydrogen peroxide onto the stain

   Test on a hidden spot first if the fabric is colored, since peroxide can lighten some materials.

4. Let the solution sit for 5-10 minutes, then wash normally in the hottest water the fabric allows

   Check that the stain is gone before putting the item in the dryer — heat sets stains permanently.