What can I do to get rid of wine and soda stains on my sofa and carpet before the holidays?
Common stains have some everyday solutions right in your home. Here are some suggestions from ConsumersReports.org about removing wine and soda stains from carpet and fabric with a step-by-step stain removal process:
For wine: First blot with water. Next use a detergent solution of 1 teaspoon of a mild clear or white dishwashing liquid — no bleach — in 1 cup of warm water. For red wine you can then dab with 3 percent-strength hydrogen peroxide. For soda: Blot with the detergent solution, then use a vinegar solution of one-third cup of white vinegar with two-thirds cup of water. Rinse with warm water. If a trace remains, dab with 3 percent-strength hydrogen peroxide.
Step-by-step stain removal:
• Act quickly. Blot, don't scrub, with a white cloth or towel until dry.
• Follow all care labels for the garments, linens, or rugs you're treating.
• Test a cleaning solution by applying several drops to an inconspicuous area and holding a wet white cloth on the area for 1 minute.
• Check cloth for color transfer and fabric or carpet for color change or damage. If there is none, proceed.
• Apply a small amount of the first recommended solution to a white cloth. Gently work it into the outer edges of the stain and then toward the center.
• Repeat with clean white cloths until you can't transfer any more stain to the cloth. If the stain remains, try the next recommended solution.
• Flush with water once the stain is gone to remove the cleaning solution. Then blot.
News
