A spilled glass of red wine is no longer a verdict for your favorite clothes or carpet. The main secret of success lies in reaction speed and proper selection absorbents. The less time the pigment is in contact with the fibers of the fabric, the better the chances of fully restoring the item without going to the dry cleaner.
First aid for fresh soiling
The first thing to do is to carefully blot excess liquid with a dry cloth. It is important not to rub the stain so as not to enlarge its area and not to drive the dye deeper into the structure of the material.
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Food salt. This is the most affordable and effective way to stop the spread of liquid. Sprinkle fine salt liberally over the area and leave it to dry, then simply shake off the residue.
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Boiling water. If the composition of the fabric allows exposure to high temperatures (for example, cotton or linen), pull the thing over the container and pour a stream of steep boiling water over the stain. The pigment will be washed away before your eyes.
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Mineral water. The carbon dioxide in it helps push the wine particles out of the fibers. This method works great as an intermediate step before you get to the full wash.
Effective remedies for difficult cases
Delicate fabrics or already dried marks require more complex chemical reactions that can break down the structure anthocyanins – natural coloring agents found in grapes.
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Mixture of hydrogen peroxide and liquid soap. In a ratio of one to one, this solution copes even with light-colored fabrics. Apply the mixture to the stain, wait a few minutes and rinse with cold water.
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Ethyl alcohol or vodka. Alcohol dissolves dyes, making them easier to remove later with regular powder. The method is ideal for dense clothing and upholstery.
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Citric acid. A weak solution of acid effectively neutralizes the color of wine. It is enough to treat the edges of the stain, moving towards the center to avoid streaks.
When working with colored things should always pre-check the effect of the means on an inconspicuous area of fabric. After using any improvised methods, the thing should be washed in the usual mode with the addition of a quality stain remover. Proper care and timely actions allow you to preserve the pristine appearance of textiles for many years.
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