Quick action helps eliminate white wine stains

White wine is fermented juice from white and occasionally red grapes. The juice has minimal, if any, contact with the skin of the grape during the fermentation process. The color can vary from pale to almost amber.

Stains from wine can be found anywhere from the front of shirts and blouses to pant legs and skirts. When serving wine you must also consider the possibility of spills on carpets, table tops, etc.

Fabrics:

1. As soon as the spill occurs, remove the garment and rinse the back of the stain with cold water or club soda.

2. If the stain remains, rub the spot with liquid dishwashing soap. Let it stand for several minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with cold water. Note: Do not use bar soap or natural hand soap because it will set the stain.

3. If the stain remains, apply a laundry spot remover and let it soak for several minutes, then launder according to the garment label. Note: Do not dry if the stain remains because it will set the stain.

Carpet:

1. As soon as you notice the stain, flush it with cold water or club soda.

2. Soak up the fluid with a clean white rag. Note: Do not rub. The best way to soak up the fluid is to stand on the white rag. Continue the drying process until the rag is dry when lifted from the carpet.

3. If the stain persists, make a poultice from borax or baking soda, apply it to the stained area and let it dry, then vacuum it up.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed at NWES (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864; Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified forensic, fire, flood, mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is the chief executive officer of Northwest Executive and Environmental Services, LLC.