Spilled wine on your favorite tablecloth or carpet? Keep your cool. Before you reach for the expensive stain removers, check your refrigerator—you might already have the perfect solution: carbonated water. This unassuming fizzy liquid is a highly capable tool for tackling fresh wine stains, and using it is both straightforward and cost-effective.
The key to success with club soda lies in acting quickly. As soon as the spill happens, use a fresh towel or absorbent paper and gently blot the area to absorb as much of the wine as possible. Never scrub, as this forces the stain further into the fibers.
Next, pour a generous amount of club soda directly onto the stain. The carbonation helps raise the stain out of the material, while the water content reduces the concentration of the spill. Let the club soda fizz and work its magic for a few minutes. You’ll often see the stain begin to diminish rapidly.
After letting it sit, use a clean absorbent cloth to soak up moisture to absorb the liquid. Reapply as needed until the stain is gone. For clothing, it’s a good idea to flush with cold water before washing normally. For carpets or upholstery, absorb all excess liquid and leave to dry in the open AC air duct cleaning.
It’s important to note that club soda works best on newly made messes. If the wine has had time to set, the effectiveness may decrease, and you might need a more intensive cleaning method. Still, even in those cases, starting with club soda can help break down the pigment prior to further cleaning.
One of the best things about using club soda is that it’s free of harsh chemicals, making it safe for most fabrics and surfaces. It’s also easy to find and affordable, so keeping a bottle on hand during gatherings is a great idea.
So next time you host a dinner party or enjoy a glass of red at home, remember that club soda is your first line of defense against wine spills. With a little speed and the right technique, you can keep your fabrics looking fresh and stain-free.