How to Remove Stubborn Stains From Any Surface

Don't Let a Stain Ruin Your Day

A sudden spill can cause a moment of panic, especially when it’s red wine on a light-colored carpet or permanent marker in the hands of a toddler. But before you give up and declare it a permanent feature of your home, know that many stubborn stains can be removed with the right technique and a little bit of patience. Here are some of our go-to methods for tackling common household stains.

Red Wine on Carpet

Act Fast! The key to removing a red wine stain is to treat it immediately. Gently blot the stain with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the wine as possible. Do not rub! Then, pour a small amount of cool water on the stain to dilute it and continue blotting. If the stain persists, a mixture of one tablespoon of white vinegar, one tablespoon of dish soap, and two cups of warm water can be blotted onto the area. Finish by blotting with a cloth dampened with clean water.

Permanent Marker on Walls

For permanent marker on a painted wall, try dabbing the mark with a cloth or cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol. Toothpaste (the white paste kind, not gel) can also work wonders. Apply a small amount to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub with a damp cloth.

Grease Stains on Clothing

Cover the grease stain with a generous amount of cornstarch or baking soda. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the oil. Scrape off the powder and then rub a small amount of dish soap into the stain before laundering as usual.

Coffee Stains on Mugs

To remove those stubborn brown rings from your favorite coffee mugs, make a paste of baking soda and a little water. Apply the paste to the stains and scrub with a sponge. They’ll be sparkling clean in no time.

Hard Water Stains on Faucets

Soak a paper towel or cloth in white vinegar and wrap it around the faucet, securing it with a rubber band if needed. Let it sit for an hour, then remove the cloth and scrub away the loosened mineral deposits with a sponge. This works for shower heads too!

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

While these DIY methods are effective for many common stains, some situations require professional expertise. If you're dealing with a large or old stain, or if you're unsure about the material you're cleaning, it's always best to call a professional cleaning service. At CretuCleans, we have experience with a wide variety of stains and surfaces, and we serve homeowners throughout Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and Chamblee. Don't risk damaging your home—let us handle the tough stuff!