How to Remove Wine, Coffee, and Other Tough Stains from Your Sofa
Spilling red wine or coffee on your sofa can feel like a disaster, but with the right cleaning techniques, you can save your furniture from permanent stains. Let’s go through the best ways to remove common sofa stains, from fresh spills to set-in marks.
Why Are These Stains So Tough to Remove?
- Red wine contains tannins that bind to fabric fibers.
- Coffee has oils that can leave a greasy residue.
- Juice and soda contain artificial dyes that penetrate upholstery.
The key to successful stain removal is acting fast before the liquid sets into the fabric.
General Rules for Stain Removal
✅ Blot, don’t rub! Rubbing spreads the stain deeper.
✅ Work from the outside in to prevent spreading.
✅ Test cleaning solutions on an inconspicuous area first.
Removing Red Wine Stains
🔹 Step 1: Blot the Spill Immediately
- Use a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much wine as possible.
🔹 Step 2: Apply a Baking Soda Paste
- Mix three parts baking soda with one part water to create a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the stain and let it sit for 15-30 minutes.
- Vacuum or brush off the dried paste.
🔹 Step 3: Use Hydrogen Peroxide (For Light Fabrics Only)
- Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide with one part dish soap.
- Gently blot the stain with the mixture using a sponge.
- Rinse with a damp cloth and let it air dry.
Removing Coffee Stains
🔹 Step 1: Blot with Cold Water
- Immediately dab the area with a clean, damp cloth.
🔹 Step 2: Dish Soap and Vinegar Solution
- Mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 2 cups of warm water.
- Apply the mixture to the stain using a sponge or soft cloth.
- Blot gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Rinse with a damp cloth.
🔹 Step 3: Use an Enzyme Cleaner (For Milk-Based Coffee Stains)
If your coffee had milk, an enzyme-based cleaner helps break down dairy proteins to prevent sour smells.
Removing Soda and Juice Stains
🔹 Step 1: Blot and Rinse with Cold Water
- Use a paper towel to soak up excess liquid.
🔹 Step 2: Vinegar and Baking Soda Treatment
- Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the stain and sprinkle baking soda over it.
- Let it sit for 15 minutes, then blot with a clean cloth.
🔹 Step 3: Professional Cleaning for Set-In Stains
- If a stain has been left untreated for too long, professional extraction cleaning is the best way to remove it completely.
Preventing Future Stains
✔ Use fabric protectors like Scotchgard to create a stain-resistant barrier.
✔ Clean up spills immediately to prevent them from setting in.
✔ Schedule regular professional cleaning to keep your sofa fresh and stain-free.
💡 Final Tip: If a stain isn’t coming out or your sofa has multiple old stains, professional upholstery cleaning with extraction technology is the best way to restore your furniture.
Would you like help booking a professional deep cleaning for your sofa? Contact us today! 🚀