How to remove red wine stains

Tannin and pigment combined. Absorb first, dilute second, then treat with an oxygen-based product on colour-safe fabrics.

Method

1. 1

   Blot, don't rub

   Press with a clean white cloth to lift liquid. Rubbing spreads pigment into the weave.

2. 2

   Dilute

   Flush with cool water or apply sparkling water, blotting between applications.

3. 3

   Oxygen treatment

   Apply an oxygen-based stain remover per its label and leave for the stated time.

4. 4

   Wash

   Wash at the highest temperature the care label allows and air dry.

What makes it worse

• Do not apply salt and leave it — it can drive pigment deeper
• Do not use chlorine bleach on coloured fabric
• Do not iron until clear

Last reviewed 2026-09-01. Your item's care label always takes priority.