How to Remove Red Wine, Coffee, Grease and Other Common Stains
By the CleaningCrews Perth team · Updated 3 Nov 2026 · 3 min read
For most stains: blot, do not rub; work from the outside in; use cold water first for protein stains like blood and milk; and test any product in a hidden spot. Act quickly, because fresh stains come out far more easily than old ones.
Spills happen. What you do in the first few minutes decides whether you have a quick wipe or a permanent mark. These methods work on most carpets and washable fabrics, but always check the care label first.
The golden rules
- Blot with a clean white cloth. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper.
- Work from the edge towards the centre so it does not spread.
- Use cold water first for blood, milk, egg and other protein stains. Heat sets them.
- Test any product on a hidden spot before using it.
- Rinse and blot dry, so no soap residue is left to attract dirt.
Stain by stain
| Stain | What to do | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Red wine | Blot, cover with salt for a few minutes, then cold water and a drop of dish soap | Hot water or rubbing |
| Coffee and tea | Cold water, then dish soap mixed with a little white vinegar | Hot water on fresh stains |
| Grease and oil | Cover with bicarb soda for 15 minutes, brush off, then dish soap | Water first |
| Blood | Cold water, then an enzyme cleaner | Hot water or heat |
| Ink | Dab with isopropyl alcohol on a cloth, working inwards | Rubbing outwards |
| Pet urine | Blot, rinse with cold water, then an enzyme cleaner | Ammonia products |
| Candle wax | Harden with ice, scrape off, then press with a warm iron over paper | Scraping while soft |
| Mud | Let it dry, brush it off, then clean with dish soap and cold water | Wiping while wet |
When to call a professional
Old, set or large stains, delicate fabrics such as silk and wool, and natural stone are best left to specialists. A steam clean with the right equipment lifts deep dirt without soaking the carpet. If the stain is in a rental, take photos and tell your agent so you have a record.
Our carpet and upholstery cleaning uses steam cleaning for carpets, rugs, mattresses and couches. Get a price online.
Frequently asked questions
Salt helps draw the wine out of the fibres if you apply it right away. Follow with cold water and a little dish soap.
Hot water cooks the proteins in blood and fixes them into the fabric. Cold water lifts the stain first.
No. Never mix bleach with ammonia or vinegar. Use one product at a time, and rinse in between.
Treat it straight away if you can. Within minutes is best, and most stains get harder to remove once they dry.
Stubborn stain on the carpet?
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