Spilled wine on your favorite tablecloth or carpet cleaning at home? Stay calm. Before you reach for the expensive stain removers, see what’s stored in your kitchen chill zone—you might already have the perfect solution: club soda. This basic effervescent liquid is a highly capable tool for tackling fresh wine stains, and using it is both easy and affordable.
The key to success with club soda lies in acting quickly. As soon as the spill happens, take a dry cloth or napkin and gently blot the area to absorb as much of the wine as possible. Avoid rubbing, which can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fabric.
Next, douse the stain with a healthy dose of carbonated water. The carbonation helps pull the pigment out of the weave, while the water content dilutes the remaining wine. Let the club soda fizz and work its magic for a few minutes. You’ll often see the stain begin to lighten within seconds.
After letting it sit, wipe gently with a dry, lint-free fabric to absorb the liquid. Perform another round if needed, particularly for stubborn spots. For clothing, it’s a good idea to flush with cold water before washing normally. For carpets or upholstery, continue blotting until moisture is gone and let it dry naturally.
It’s important to note that club soda works best on wet wine marks. If the wine has had time to set, the effectiveness may decrease, and you might need a harsher removal technique. Still, even in those cases, starting with club soda can help soften the stain for subsequent steps.
One of the best things about using club soda is that it’s non-toxic and gentle, making it safe for most fabrics and surfaces. It’s also commonly stocked and low-cost, so keeping a bottle on hand during gatherings is a wise precaution.
So next time you entertain guests or relax with a drink, remember that club soda is your primary weapon for stain prevention. With a little speed and the right technique, you can keep your fabrics looking like new and unstained.