How to Remove a Fresh Red Wine Stain from a Wool Sweater Without Damaging the Fibers

1. Prepare a cleaning solution. In a small bowl, mix one teaspoon of mild dish soap with two cups of cold water. Stir gently to combine.
2. Test on a hidden area. Before applying the solution to the stain, test it on an inconspicuous spot, like an inside seam, to ensure it doesn't cause color fading or damage.
3. Dab the stain. Dip a clean white cloth into the solution and blot the stain gently. Work from the edges toward the center. Continue blotting, using a fresh part of the cloth as it picks up the wine.
4. Rinse with cold water. After blotting, rinse the area with cold water to remove any soap residue. You can do this by holding the sweater under cold running water or using a clean cloth dampened with cold water.
5. Blot dry. Use a dry, clean cloth to blot the area and remove excess moisture. Lay the sweater flat to air dry.

What Not to Do

Wool is delicate, and some common stain-removal tactics can cause more harm than good. Avoid these:

• Do not rub or scrub. This can cause the wool fibers to felt, ruining the sweater's texture.
• Do not use hot water. Hot water can set the stain and shrink the wool.
• Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals. These can damage the wool fibers and cause discoloration.
• Do not wring or twist the sweater. This can stretch and distort the shape.

Fresh vs. Dried Red Wine Stains

If the stain is fresh, the method above should work well. But if the wine has dried, the approach is different:

Dried Red Wine Stain on Wool

For a dried stain, you'll need to rehydrate it before treating. Follow these steps: