Learn how to remove red wine stains, step by step. These stain removal tips will help you get your clothes clean. Always check and follow your appliance and product use and care instructions before beginning any task, as it should be your primary source of information.

 

Wine spills can happen at the most inconvenient times. Fortunately, getting red wine stains out of clothes is almost as easy as toppling a wine glass over! Follow these three simple steps to remove red wine stains from cotton, polyester or more delicate fabrics.

A red wine stain on a white shirt

HOW TO REMOVE RED WINE STAINS FROM COTTON & COTTON/POLY BLENDS

Good for: white clothes, lights, darks, jeans, towels, sheets

 

  1. Rinse in cold water to flush out as much of the stain as possible.
  2. Apply an enzyme detergent1 to the stain and allow to set for a few minutes. 
  3. Wash in the warmest water safe for the garment. Add some oxygen bleach2 or chlorine bleach for white cottons to help with dark stains.
Someone showing how to remove a red wine stain from a white shirt

HOW TO REMOVE RED WINE STAINS FROM POLYESTER, SPANDEX & NYLON

Good for: white clothes, lights, darks, active wear

 

  1. Rinse in cold water to flush out as much of the stain as possible. 
  2. Apply an enzyme detergent1 to the stain and allow to set for a few minutes.
  3. Wash in the warmest water safe for the garment. Add some oxygen bleach2 to help with dark stains.
A clean white shirt with the red wine stain removed

HOW TO REMOVE RED WINE STAINS FROM WOOL, SILK, LINEN, RAYON & ACRYLIC

Good for: sweaters, blouses, sheer fabrics, swimsuits

 

  1. Mix a mild detergent3 in cool water then add the stained garment.
  2. Gently squeeze the soapy water through the garment to help release the stain.
  3. Wash in the warmest water safe for the garment. An oxygen bleach2 can be used to further help with removal if safe for your delicate fabric.
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Oxygen bleach vs. chlorine bleach

Oxygen bleach is an alternative to traditional chlorine bleach that is generally safe on colors. It’s colorless, fragrance-free and comes in either a liquid or powder form. Products often begin with “Oxy” and don’t call themselves “bleach” but “stain remover” instead.

TERMS TO KNOW FOR THIS STAIN REMOVAL GUIDE

 

1. Enzyme detergents target stains such as blood, food stains, grass, and others. These are most commonly liquid formulations but powdered formulations are also available. Check the label of your detergent to see if yours contains enzymes. 

2. Oxygen bleach is an alternative to traditional chlorine bleach that is generally safe on colors. It’s colorless, fragrance-free and comes in either a liquid or powder form.

3. Mild detergents tend to be formulated for delicate fabrics or sensitive skin. The labels often indicate that they're fragrance-free or gentle on skin.

 

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