We’ve all been there, a lovely evening, a glass of red wine, and before you know it, a stain has made itself right at home on your cream-coloured sofa. Stubborn stains are a part of everyday life, and while they might feel like a disaster at the moment, there’s often a simple solution within reach. At Koden Touch Cleaning, we’ve tackled thousands of messes across UK homes, and today, we’re sharing the same expert cleaning tips we use to banish even the trickiest spills. From red wine to ink, this guide will help you learn how to remove stubborn stains using safe, effective, and often eco-friendly methods.
General Rules Before You Begin
Before you reach for the nearest cleaner, there are a few universal rules that apply to nearly every stain. First, act quickly — the longer a stain sits, the harder it becomes to remove. Always blot, never rub. Rubbing tends to spread the stain further and damages the fibres of your fabric or carpet. When in doubt, use cold or lukewarm water rather than hot water, as high temperatures can set some stains permanently. And finally, if you’re trying a new product, test it on a hidden area first to avoid causing more damage.
How to Tackle the Most Common Stains
Red Wine
When red wine hits a light fabric, it’s panic time — but don’t worry. Start by blotting up as much liquid as you can with a clean cloth. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the area; it’ll help draw out the wine. Rinse gently with cold water and treat the area with a solution of white vinegar and washing-up liquid. Avoid hot water at all costs, it’ll only make things worse.
Coffee or Tea
Coffee and tea can leave deep-set stains if not treated quickly. Blot the liquid gently and then apply a mix of warm water, a drop of dish soap, and a touch of white vinegar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before rinsing. On lighter fabrics, a touch of baking soda can lift remaining marks.
Grease and Oil
Oil-based stains from food or machinery can be a nightmare, especially on upholstery. Start by dabbing with a dry cloth to absorb excess grease. Then, sprinkle the area with cornflour or baking soda and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Vacuum off the powder and gently clean the area with a degreasing dish soap mixed with warm water.
Ink
Ink is bold and quick to spread. For fresh stains, try blotting with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball, working from the outside in. Avoid pressing too hard, you want to lift the ink, not drive it deeper. For set-in stains, a specialist cleaner might be necessary, especially on upholstery or delicate materials.
Pet Accidents
Whether it’s a puppy mishap or a feline slip-up, pet stains need a two-pronged approach: stain removal and odour control. First, blot up as much as possible. Then, clean with an enzyme-based cleaner that breaks down the proteins in urine or faeces. If you don’t have one handy, a mix of white vinegar and bicarbonate of soda works in a pinch. It neutralises odours and lifts stains gently.
Blood
Blood stains require cool handling — literally. Never use hot water, as it sets the stain. Soak the area in cold water and dab gently. Then use a mild soap or hydrogen peroxide on whites, being careful not to bleach coloured fabrics. If it’s already dried, a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water can help loosen it.
Mud and Dirt
The best approach to mud is to wait. Let it dry fully before trying to clean it. Once dry, brush or vacuum off the loose dirt. Then, spot clean the remainder with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid soaking, as that can push the dirt deeper into carpets or fabric.
Pro Tips from the Experts
Here at Koden Touch Cleaning, we often say that prevention is the best cure. Using doormats, coasters, and protective covers can go a long way. But when the mess hits, trust your instincts, act fast, and remember you’ve got options. We love eco-friendly stain removers like white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda because they’re kind to your home and the planet. And when things go beyond DIY, like wine-soaked carpets or deep grease on upholstery, it’s okay to call in the pros. That’s what we’re here for.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to remove stubborn stains doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach and a bit of know-how, even the most intimidating messes can be dealt with swiftly and safely. But remember, not every stain wants to let go, and that’s alright. When the situation gets out of hand or you’re not sure what to use, our professional cleaning team is just a call away. Why stress when Koden Touch Cleaning can handle the mess?
