How to Remove Red Wine Stain from Clothes

Red Wine Stains: The Clock Is Ticking

Red wine contains tannins, natural dyes (anthocyanins), and chromogens — a triple threat that bonds to fabric fibers fast. But here's the good news: fresh red wine stains come out remarkably easily if you act within the first few minutes. Here's exactly what to do.

What You'll Need

• Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover
• Carbona Liquid Stain Devils
• OxiClean White Revive Power Paks (for white/light fabrics)
• Microfiber cloths
• Salt
• Cold water

Step-by-Step: Fresh Red Wine on Clothes

1. Blot immediately — don't rub. Use a clean microfiber cloth to absorb as much wine as possible. Press and lift — rubbing spreads the stain and pushes it deeper into the fibers.
2. Cover with salt. Pour a generous amount of salt over the wet stain. Salt draws the wine out of the fabric before it sets. Let sit 2–3 minutes, then brush off.
3. Apply Wine Away. Spray Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover directly onto the stain. This product is specifically formulated for red wine and works on contact. Let sit 1–2 minutes.
4. Blot with a clean cloth. Work from the outside in. You should see the stain lifting immediately.
5. Rinse with cold water. Flush from the back of the fabric.
6. Machine wash cold. For white or light fabrics, add an OxiClean White Revive Power Pak to the wash. Check before drying.

For Stubborn Red Wine Stains

If Wine Away alone isn't enough, follow up with Carbona Liquid Stain Devils. Apply after rinsing, let sit 10–15 minutes, then wash cold. The enzyme formula breaks down the remaining pigments and tannins.

What NOT to Do

• ❌ Don't use hot water — heat sets red wine stains permanently
• ❌ Don't rub — always blot
• ❌ Don't put in the dryer until the stain is completely gone
• ❌ Don't use white wine to remove red wine — this is a myth that just dilutes the stain

Frequently Asked Questions

Does salt really help with red wine stains?

Yes — salt is an excellent first response for fresh red wine spills. It draws the wine out of the fabric before it bonds to the fibers. Always follow up with a proper stain remover like Wine Away for best results.

Can I remove a red wine stain that has dried?

Yes, though it takes more effort. Soak in cold water first to rehydrate the stain, then apply Carbona Stain Devils followed by Wine Away. Multiple treatments may be needed.

Will OxiClean remove red wine from clothes?

Yes — OxiClean White Revive is excellent for red wine stains on white and light-colored fabrics. Use it as a wash booster after pre-treating with Wine Away.