It’s easy to spill a glass of red wine, a little stumble or tripping over a household pet, and before you know it, it has covered the carpet.
My immediate reaction always used to be panic, especially since I have always had white carpets in the living room. There is nothing worse than a huge splodge of red soaking into it.
After a particularly large spillage that could not be hidden, I went out in search of the best carpet stain remover.
There are so many ways you can remove red wine stains, from natural remedies to chemical solutions from the shop.
You can even try bleaching (although this should be tested first and could cause damage to your floors if not carried out correctly). Below we have come up with every possible solution to remove red wine from carpets.Â
#1 Salt and Vinegar Solutions
Some of the best stain removers can be found in your kitchen cupboards, as you will discover with methods 1-4.
The first of these looks at solutions made using salt and vinegar, two condiments that can be incredibly effective when it comes to figuring out how to get red wine out of carpet.
Here are a few quick and easy recipes/methods for home remedies for carpet stains.
Salt (75/100)
While the stain is wet, dab carefully to get as much wine up as you can, then pour salt over the top of the stain. Over the next few hours, it will bring up the moisture.
You can even let it sit overnight. The salt will turn a pinkish colour as it absorbs the wine. Once finished, simply scoop up the salt and vacuum the area. The stain should be gone or greatly reduced.
Pros
- Easy to do
- Uses household condiments
- Inexpensive
- Effective
Cons
- Takes time
- Stain not always completely gone
- Not good for dry stains
Vinegar (85/100)
Making this solution is a very easy process. Add one tbsp. of dishwashing liquid and white vinegar to a bowl that contains two cups of warm water.
Stir thoroughly. Soak a clean cloth in the mixture and dab it onto the stained area of the carpet to loosen the stain.
Use a dry cloth to collect stray liquid as you go, alternating between the two. Next, pour cold water directly onto the stain and gently dab it with the dry cloth. Repeat the process as needed until the stain is removed.
Pros
- Works on dry and wet stains
- Uses household goods
- Easy to do
- Effective
Cons
- Can be time consuming
- Anything other than white vinegar will cause its own staining
- Multiple ingredients required
#2 Dish Soap and Baking Soda Solutions
Dish soap and baking soda are two other household goods that are commonly found in cupboards and around the kitchen sink. Here are some stain removal methods you can use for each type.
Dish Soap (60/100)
If you have a light coloured fabric, mix a little hydrogen peroxide and a generous amount of dish soap together. Get a clean cloth, and soak a corner of it in the solution.
Gently dab the stain until you have applied the solution to the entire area. Once done, let it sit for a little while so it can bring up the stain.
After, spray a solution of cold soapy water over the area and blot with a dry cloth. Blot with warm water to rinse.
Pros
- Easy solution to create
- Can be effective on fresh stains
Cons
- Not always effective on dry stains
- Can be less effective on fress stains than expected
- Can be time consuming
- Not all ingredients readily available
Baking Soda (91/100)
If the stain is not damp, then pour a little water on it to loosen the carpet fibres and the stain.
Absorb as much as possible using paper towels. When you can get no more up, pour a little baking soda on top, but make sure you do not use too much.Â
The stain will change from red to a very pale grey. Leave it overnight. The next day, dab a clean cloth in some white vinegar, dab the area, and then vacuum up the leftover debris. The stain should be gone.
Pros
- Great results on dry and damp stains
- Easy process
- Uses household condiments
- Great for white carpet
Cons
- Time consuming
- Can be a little messy
#3 Solutions with Alcohol
You may think that using alcohol on your stained carpet it the last thing you should be doing, but actually clear alcohols like gin and white wine can really reduce the stain. Here is a great stain removal method for each of these alcohol types.
White Wine (72/100)
The classically used alcohol for stain removal. It’s actually a very simple process that only requires the use of white wine.
So if you have a spare bottle or some left over from the night before, pour a little onto the stain and gently dab it with a clean cloth.Â
Alternate between pouring and dabbing for the best results. If the stain is already damp, then remember to dab it with paper towels before you pour the white wine on.
Pros
- Quick process
- Easy to do
- Great results
- Works for dry and damp stains
Cons
- Not always effective alone
Gin (82/100)
This nifty alcohol is kept in most homes, especially British ones, and so it often ready to hand.
If you have a fresh or old red wine stain, all you need is a little bit of gin and a dry cloth. If the stain is fresh, dab it dry with a cloth before applying the gin to the area.
As with the white wine, you simply need to alternate between pouring a little gin and gently dabbing the area to reduce the stain.
After repeating this process a few times, the stain should be reduced or gone. If it is particularly stubborn then you can also use some baking powder paste to absorb the remaining liquid.
Pros
- Very simple process
- A quick process
- Easy to obtain items
- Can be used on damp or dry stains
Cons
- Not as effective on dry stains
#4 Using an Iron
When you are thinking about how to remove old stains from carpet, using your iron might not be the first thing that comes to mind. After all, it probably sounds a little bizarre. However, it is actually a very effective method.
Iron (85/100)
Plug the iron in close to the area where the stain it and set it to the low steam setting.
Next, create a solution of dishwashing liquid and warm water in a small bowl and bring it to the area. Soak a clean cloth in the solution and the wring it out until it is damp.
Then place it flat over the stained area so that it starts to loosen the stain. Place the iron on top of the stain and allow it to sit there either until the stain soaks into the cloth or for 15 minutes.
If it is a large stain, you may need to repeat the steaming process on other areas of the towel.
Pros
- Very simple process
- Uses normal household tools
- Inexpensive
- Quick process
- Ideal for dry stains
Cons
- Not always effective
#5 Using Natural Stain Removers
Natural carpet stain removers are becoming more popular, especially with people becoming more environmentally conscious. You can purchase them online as well as in the supermarket for a very low price.
They tend to be very effective, so here are a few top brands along with their pros and cons.
Natural and Clean Dry Carpet Cleaner (62/100)
A dry carpet cleaner that is placed over the stain to absorb the wine. Can also be brushed into the area. Vacuum it up afterwards to see the results.
Pros
- Lovely smell
- Natural
- Works quickly
- Brush included for tougher stains
- Used in big industries
Cons
- Struggles with old stains
- Can require several applications
Earth Friendly (57/100)
A simple to use solution. All you have to do is leave it on the stained area to soak for a short time. Then dab up the remaining liquid and repeat until the stain is gone.
Pros
- 100% natural
- pH neutral
- Easy to apply
- Works for dry and damp stains
Cons
- Can often take several applications
- Not always very effective
- Struggles with thick/shag carpet
Ecover (86/100)
The top brand for all things natural, Ecover have a whole range of eco-friendly products. With this, simply pour onto the affected area and dab gently to lift the stain.
Pros
- 100% natural carpet stain remover
- Effective on dry and damp stains
- Very simple to use
- Pleasant scent
Cons
- Can take few applications
#6 Using Supermarket Stain Remover
If you are looking for something a little stronger when you’re thinking about how to remove red wine from carpet, then the supermarket stain removers might be your best shot.
Some of them will contain chemicals, but there are times when this is the best option for really tough stains. Here’s a few of the top brands.
Dr. Beckmann (76/100)
This carpet cleaner does contain chemicals, but it is perfect for heavy soiling. It even comes with a brush for tough wine marks.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Made for heavy soiling
- Has a range of uses
- Eliminates odours
- Ideal for all carpet types
Cons
- Can lack cleaning power
- Uses chemicals
Vanish Oxi Action (95/100)
A popular and well-known brand it is known for its powerful cleaning results. No stain is safe when it comes to vanish. Always test an area of carpet before using this product.
Pros
- Powerful cleaning results
- Works on all carpet types
- Ideal for white carpet
- Perfect for red wine stains
Cons
- Uses harsh chemicals
Trouble Shooter (87/100)
This brand is known for being able to tackle difficult stains with ease. A great buy for those looking for something affordable and effective.
Pros
- Tackles wine stains fast
- Safe for all carpet types
- Powerful cleaning
- Easy to use
- Safe for use on wool
- No harsh chemicals
- Tackles a wide range of carpet stains
- Cleans deep into the carpet
- Polymer ingredient protects your carpet and prevents future soiling
- Leaves no residue
- Keeps carpet cleaner for longer
- Â Safe to use on most delicate carpets
- WoolSafe approved
Cons
- Flattens fibres
#7 Using Supermarket Own Brands
Along with the name brands you can purchase during your weekly shop, you also have the option to pick up some Supermarket branded carpet cleaners.
When you are looking for the best carpet stain remover, it can sometimes be the cheapest ones that do the best job.
Most people would avoid Supermarket brands, but there are some that have been voted as the best buys in a recent – even above named brands. Here they are along with my personal ratings.
Waitrose (91/100)
An excellent product that removes stains quickly. However, it does use chemicals in its mixture.
Wilko (91/100)
A great purchase if you are looking for something cheap and effective. This product also uses chemicals in its solution.
Tesco (86/100)
A good supermarket brand, although it can require reapplication on particularly tough stains, making it a little more time consuming.
#8 Using Specialist Red Wine Stain Removers
Sometimes a red wine stain calls for something a little more specialist. These brands are perfect if you are looking for red wine carpet cleaner, and will ensure it looks just as good as it did before the accident.
Chateau Spill (78/100)
A brand with a comical name and bottle, it stands out on the shelf and for good reason.
Pros
- Made for removing red wine stains
- Highly affordable
- Quick application and results
- Can be used on any carpet type
Cons
- Not always as effective on dry stains
Wine Away (67/100)
Another brand made for getting rid of unwanted red wine stains, this is perfect for those that need a quick solution.
Pros
- World best seller
- Quick and effective
- No harsh chemicals
- Great for white carpets
- Affordable
Cons
- Works poorly on dried stains
- Can require reapplication
Lakeland Wine No More (83/100)
Made for carpets, clothing, and textile, this is the perfect formula for those who are prone to red wine spillages.
Pros
- Made for red wine stains
- Suitable for most fabrics/carpets
- No harsh chemicals
- Easy to use spray
- Great for white carpet
Cons
- Sometimes requires multiple applications
Rug Doctor
This nifty formula uses oxygen boosters to life stains out of the carpet. Great if you want something a little different that is also effective.
Pros
- Quick and easy to use
- Can be used on all types of carpet
- Can be used on all textiles
- Disrupts chemical bonds in stain, causing them to become colourless
- Wool friendly
Cons
- Not as effective on old stains
#9 Using Professional Stain Removers
Alongside the specialist products for red wine stain removal, you also have the professional ones.
These tend to be a little heavier duty in terms of cleaning power and are often good for deep stains. Take a look at some of the top brands that you should seriously consider.
Chem-Dry Stain Extinguisher (65/100)
Used by professional carpet cleaners across the globe, this brand works to bring you excellent results.
Pros
- Can be used on any carpet
- Naturalbased ingredients
- Carbonated 'spot' remover
- Ideal for red wine stains
- Quick and effective
Cons
- Spray functions malfunctions
Prochem Stain Pro (49/100)
This stain remover was made to deal with tough spots, especially those caused by wine and foods.
Pros
- Waterbased solvent
- Neutralises acidic stains
- Can be used on all carpet types
- Easy to use
- Quick results
- Antibacterial
Cons
- Can often require several applicationsÂ
- Not as effective on large stains
#10 Other Professional Stain Removers
Here are some further professional stain removers you should consider using for removing red wine stains from your carpet.
Dirtbusters (53/100)
A professional brand that is used by numerous companies, this small package delivers a lot of punch.
Pros
- Perfect for red wine stains
- Ideal for white carpet
- Breaks down stain for easy cleaning
- Quick results and easy to use
Cons
- Can require additional applications
Bissell (58/100)
Bissell is a well know brand, they aim to deliver a high quality product that works quickly and effectively on your carpets to remove stains quickly.
Pros
- Uses oxygen lift technology
- Easy to use with quick results
- Safe for all carpet types
- Safe for use with wool
- Works great on tough stains
- Ideal for red wine
Cons
- Can lack power
Dyson (81/100)
A popular and trusted brand, Dyson deliver a range of useful items, from vacuums and fans to stain remover. It’s definitely one you should look into.
Pros
- pH neutral
- Works quickly and easily
- Ideal for all carpet types
- Perfect for white carpet
- Excellent on red wine stains
- No harsh chemicals and environmentally friendly
Cons
- Can require reapplication
- Not always as powerful as it could be
#11 Own Your Own Portable Carpet Cleaner (Spot Cleaning)
Sometimes you need something with a little more power than the results cleaning your carpet by hand produce.
In cases like these it might be worth investing in a portable carpet cleaner – especially if you or members of the household are prone to the occasional spillage on the carpet.
They can be a great investment and save you money in the long run while producing great results for you.
In a related article, we look at the best handheld carpet cleaners, all of which are excellent when it comes to stain removal. Plus, they are really easy to store in your home as they tend to be very compact and can slot into most available spaces.
They’re even available to those on a tight budget. There are some great models on offer, and here are just some of the pros to owning one – as well as the cons.
Pros
- Very affordable models available
- Lightweight
- Easy to use
- New technology for cleaning and stain removal
- Compact
- Highly effective
- Clean the floor and stains
- Ideal for red wine
- Do not damage the carpet
Cons
- Some can be expensive to top up with formula
- Not all of them are suitable for large areas
#12 Hiring a Professional Cleaning Company
Sometimes a stain is just too tough for home remedies or other cleaning solutions. This often happens when the stain has sat for a few days or you simply just don’t have the time to deal with it and it keeps slipping your mind.
This is where hiring a professional cleaning company can come in handy, providing you with a great result without you needing to lift a finger.
Plus, they can bleach carpets etc. without causing any damage, so you are not at risk of doing so yourself.
The only downside to hiring professional cleaning company is the potential cost it could bring you, but that all depends on who you hire. Here are a few of the benefits of hiring one to get rid of your red wine stains.
- They have access to solvent based products the public does not
- Saves you time
- Can clean carpets and rugs
- Have a lot of experiences to avoid mistakes being made
- Generally, very quick and efficient
- No need to worry about your white carpet
- Can get rid of stains that are weeks' old
- They have dealt with red wine stains hundreds of times
- Can give your whole house a deep carpet clean
To Conclude
Stain removal is never easy, and looking for the best carpet stain remover is just as difficult. There are so many different methods you can use, each of which have merit and work better for some than others.
Regardless of the route you want to take to get the red wine out of your floors, you are sure to find a solution here that speaks to you and gives you the desired results.
Just always remember that when it comes to white carpets you should act immediately to get the best cleaning results.
I find this article important because it can be really difficult to find an effective method of removing stains, and so having them all in one place is incredibly helpful.Â
No matter which route you take, always remember these two key pieces of information – always test a section of carpet first, and never rub the solution in, always dab it.
Did you enjoy our red wine stain removal article? Were there any points that you found particularly helpful? We would love to hear from you, so please feel free to leave a message in the comments below.
Last Updated on January 17, 2022 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
