Parties, dinners, a quiet night at home…a wine spill is going to put a damper on your event. However, it’s not the end of the world. Learn what to do for different kinds of wine, know the best ways to clean different materials, and remember these tips for next time.
Red vs white wine
How do you clean up red and white wine?
The wine composition determines how it affects different surfaces. Red wine contains natural pigments which quickly move into porous material. When you spill red wine, the initial step is always to blot the liquid using a clean white cloth or paper towel. This part is really important - apply downward pressure without rubbing, since that pushes the pigments deeper into the material.
White wine doesn’t have the same pigments, but its high sugar content and acidity create different issues. If left alone, white wine dries into a sticky residue that attracts dust and darkens over time. Blotting is equally important for white wine to soak up as much moisture and sugar from the surface as possible before it sets.
Surface rules
Where did the wine spill? This makes a difference for cleaning, too. Let’s look at how to deal with wine spills across common household surfaces:
- Carpets and rugs (red wine): After blotting, pour table salt or baking soda over the damp area. The powder draws the remaining liquid up out of the fibers. Allow the powder to dry completely into a crust, then vacuum the entire area.
- Carpets and rugs (white wine): Mix one tablespoon of liquid dish soap with two cups of warm water. Sponge the solution onto the area, blot with a cloth, and rinse by sponging with plain cold water to remove the sugar.
- Hardwood floors: Wine acid can affect floors if left there to dry. Immediately wipe up the spill with a cloth. For leftover residue, clean the area using a damp cloth for wood floors or dish soap, then dry the surface completely with a clean towel to prevent any warping.
- Granite and marble countertops: Natural stone is porous and susceptible to acid etching. Instantly wipe the liquid away – yes, even if it’s during the party. Clean the surface with a stone cleaner or a mixture of dish soap and water.
- Washable fabrics: Stretch the stained fabric over a large bowl and secure it. Carefully pour boiling water through the fabric from a height of about two feet. The force of the water helps flush the wine pigments out. Wash the item in the laundry immediately afterward. An extra tip – don’t dry fabric in the dryer or with an iron before all the color is gone, because heat will permanently bond pigments to the material.
Keeping your home clean
While wine spills are just a moment in time, managing an entire household is a full-time job. Merry Maids might not be there during the spill, but we’re definitely the service you can depend on for routine care. Our trained professionals handle regular dust, dirt, and standard household cleaning chores…leaving you more time to relax with a glass of wine.
